https://www.cscsisters.org
Welcome
Dear Team,
I welcome you to SOAR (Sisters Organizing and Advancing Recycling)! It is with great joy and gratitude that I extend my deepest greetings to you as you embark on this journey with us. SOAR is not just an initiative; it is a mission-driven commitment by the Congregation through our Founder Blessed Basil Anthony Moreau to environmental stewardship, sustainability, and social responsibility, rooted in our values as the Holy Cross Sisters in Ghana.
At SOAR, we believe that our collective efforts can make a lasting effect on our environment and communities. Through responsible waste management, recycling initiatives, and education, we strive to create a cleaner and more sustainable future. Your role within SOAR is vital, and your dedication, passion, and skills will contribute immensely to our shared vision.
As part of our team, you will find a supportive and collaborative environment where we value integrity, teamwork, and continuous learning. Our work is not just about recycling materials but about renewing our commitment to caring for God’s creation and inspiring others to do the same.
I encourage you to embrace this opportunity with an open heart and a willingness to learn and grow. Together, we can lead the way in advancing recycling initiatives and making a meaningful difference in our society.
Once again, welcome to SOAR! I look forward to working with you and witnessing the positive impact we will achieve together.
With blessings and appreciation, Sr. Comfort Arthur, CSC
Director, SOAR
Sisters of the Holy Cross, Ghana
Sr. Comfort Arthur CSC Director SOAR
Our mission is to care for the environment through plastic collection, processing, education, advocacy, and awareness.Rooted in Catholic Social Teaching, we are committed to respecting human dignity, promoting sustainability, and empowering communities. Every employee plays a vital role in protecting creation and ensuring a clean and safe environment for future generations.
About
Sisters Organizing and Advancing Recycling (SOAR)
The Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Cross launched SOAR (Sisters Organizing and Advancing Recycling) in 2017, led by Sister Comfort Arthur, CSC. The program is dedicated to eradicating plastic waste in Ghana while empowering local communities through education, economic opportunities, and environmental stewardship. Rooted in the mission of the Sisters of the Holy Cross and inspired by Pope Francis’ call in ‘Laudato Si’, we strive to care for our common home by fostering a culture of ecological responsibility, social justice, and human dignity.
The program now has thirty-three collection hubs in six parishes and eleven schools across three cities: Kasoa, Cape Coast, and Takoradi. The Sisters work closely with schools and communities and have recruited over 3,600 student waste collection volunteers. Through waste collection, SOAR creates sustainable employment opportunities, an expression of the Holy Cross sisters’ mission to evangelize through service and stand in solidarity with the poor. Likewise, employees are encouraged to see their work as a service to God and the community, bringing dignity and purpose to daily tasks.
Today, SOAR continues to evolve, remaining steadfast in its mission to reduce plastic pollution, improve public health, and empower communities. Through its expanding network of collection hubs, educational programs, and green job creation, SOAR embodies more than just waste management—it is a ministry that reflects the Sisters’ call to serve others and protect creation.
Goals
Sisters Organizing and Advancing Recycling (SOAR)
Respond to the Cry of the Earth
Plastic Waste Reduction
Environmental Restoration
Sustainable Operations
Respond to the Cry of the Poor
Economic Empowerment
Dignity and Fair Work
Support Vulnerable Populations
Ecological Education
Spiritual Integration
Cultural Respect
Inspired by Faith
Advocate for Change
Policy Lobbying
Global Partnerships
Community Leadership
Respond to the Cry of the Earth
Community awareness
Career Opportunities
Sustainable source of income
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Employee Handbook
Table of ConteNts
Benefits
Work Hours & Time-Off
Health & Safety
Privacy
Termination
Grievance Procedures
Substance Abuse
Procedures & Resolution
I. Assent | Page 21
Signature page
A. General Information
1.Location of the Sisters of the Holy Cross in Ghana
The Sister of the Holy Cross are located in various locations in Ghana. They Operate in Kasoa, Cape Coast, and Takoradi.
2. Location of the Recycling Facility
SOAR’s recycling site is located in Anaji - Takoradi at BP130 E. Akuffo Addo St. WS-389-1017
3. Contact Information
For employee-related issues including benefits, payroll, and workplace concerns contact
Email: info.soarghana@gmail.com
SOAR Phone Number: 020 562 8247
Convent Line: 031 202 1645
4. Hiring
Our hiring policy is committed to recruiting a diverse group of individuals from different backgrounds who are passionate about serving the community and adhering to the common good. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals, regardless of race, gender, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. The hiring process is designed to be inclusive, transparent, and merit-based, focusing on candidates’ qualifications, skills, and alignment with our sustainability mission. It includes clear, consistent criteria for each role, a transparent application and interview process, and the use of standardized evaluation tools to assess candidates’ abilities objectively. We aim to recruit a diverse workforce that reflects a broad range of experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds. We care to know more about you and what you bring to SOAR and the world.
5. Training Onboarding
New employees receive training on facility operations and safety.
Probationary Period
Employees will be required to serve a probationary period of six months, after which your appointment shall be confirmed subject to satisfactory conduct. After your probation, your appointment shall subsist for a period of one year and shall be renewed annually, subject to satisfactory conduct.
Ongoing Training
Regular workshops on machine operation, environmental advocacy, and professional development will be provided.
Educational Programs
Employees may participate in outreach and advocacy initiatives.
B. SOAR Recycling Facility Guidelines & Responsibilities
Employee Expectations
At SOAR, we are all part of something bigger than ourselves, and each of us has a role to play in making this work successful. You are expected to uphold values aligned with Catholic social teaching, including sustainability, respect, integrity, hard work and community service. We understand that written rules may be new for many employees, but these expectations are here to guide us in working together as a strong and united team.
1. Respect for Each Other & the Workplace
Treat every person with dignity and respect whether a school partner, a driver, a supervisor, or a waste sorter. Any form of fighting, insults, or disrespect will not be accepted.
Violations of this policy will result in immediate disciplinary action, up to and including termination.
If you are struggling with substance use, we encourage you to speak confidentially with the director for support and resources. Our goal is to uphold a community rooted in safety, dignity, and accountability for all.
provided, and employees should take learning seriously. Good work is noticed, and employees who show responsibility and leadership may have opportunities for growth in the company. Employees should ask questions and seek to improve their skills.
12. Community Engagement & Public Awareness
Employees should be models of service in their communities, SOAR encourages all employees to educate the public about plastic waste management and participate in community clean-up exercises, school visits, and church events.
13. Resignation
Employees must give two weeks’ notice before leaving.
SOAR currently does not have transportation services for staff to the recycling site. Employees with personal vehicles may park in the designated on-site area.
Sisters and staff members you interact with. All data, materials, knowledge, and information related to the Sisters of the Holy Cross or SOAR is considered confidential and must not be shared or disclosed without proper authorization. Additionally, employees are not permitted to take photographs or videos of others without their consent.
prevent these incidents, employees must keep fire exits clear, know the location of fire extinguishers, and unplug electrical equipment when not in use to avoid overheating. Smoking is strictly prohibited near plastic waste or machinery. Any electrical issues or fire hazards must be reported to a supervisor immediately. In the event of a fire, employees should alert a supervisor and follow all emergency procedures without delay.
Employees must notify their supervisor if any equipment, machines, or tools appear damaged, defective, or in need of repair or service. p g , p y y their supervisor. For serious incidents, local police or authorities must also be contacted. Employees are responsible for collecting and documenting the name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, and insurance information of all parties involved.
Safety Sorters
1. Risks
Sorting recyclables involves several risks, including cuts from sharp objects mixed with plastic waste, exposure to contaminated or hazardous materials, and muscle strain from repetitive movements.
2. Safe Operating Procedures
Sorters must always wear gloves and masks to protect against dust and potential injury , Exercise caution when handling plastic Check for sharp or hazardous items, take regular breaks to avoid muscle strain, and wash hands thoroughly before eating or drinking to avoid contamination.
Emergency Protocols
1. Emergencies & Evacuation
In the event of an emergency, employees will be provided with clear evacuation procedures, including diagrams and designated safe zones. Routine drills will be conducted to ensure all staff are familiar with these procedures and prepared to respond.
2. Emergency Closures
Severe weather, fire, floods, or other emergency conditions may disrupt operations and affect work schedules. In such cases, employees should follow the emergency closure procedures as directed by the facility director.
3. Emergency Contact Info
Before beginning work, all employees must designate an emergency contact. This should be a family member, spouse, or significant other to who can respond in case of emergency.
Sanitation Procedures
These sanitation procedures must be followed at all times to protect everyone’s health and safety and to maintain a productive and efficient working environment.Failure to comply with these procedures may result in corrective action.
1. Cleaning Supplies
Cleaning supplies, including gloves, disinfectants, and first aid kits, should be kept accessible in all work areas.
2. Work Area Cleanliness
Employees are responsible for maintaining clean and orderly work areas. All workstations, machinery, and surrounding spaces must be kept free of debris. At the end of each shift, employees must sweep and properly dispose of waste materials. All trash, including hazardous materials, must be disposed of in designated bins.
3. Restroom Maintenance
Restrooms must be kept clean and sanitary at all times. Employees should report any malfunctions or cleanliness issues.
4. PPE and Equipment Sanitation
All safety equipment, including gloves, masks, and uniforms, must be cleaned and disinfected regularly. Do not leave Personal protective equipment (PPE) in shared or public areas.
5. Personal Hygiene
Maintaining personal hygiene is essential for a safe and sanitary workplace. Employees must wash their hands regularly with soap and water, especially before eating, after using the restroom, and after handling waste or machinery. When handwashing facilities are not available, employees should use hand sanitizer.
Illness
In the case of illness, please notify staff via WhatsApp at least 24 hours’ before your shift so proper adjustments can be made to staff scheduling.
D.
Employee Security, Rights, & Inclusion
1. Equal Opportunity & Inclusion
Equal Opportunity for Employment - SOAR promotes business practices irrespective of gender, religion, ethnicity, disability, race or level of income.
2. Anti-Discrimination & Harassment
A. The Sisters of the Holy Cross are committed to maintaining a workplace that is safe, respectful, and inclusive for all employees. Harassment of any kind will not be tolerated. This includes unwelcome advances, inappropriate physical contact, offensive comments, or any behavior that contributes to a hostile work environment. Together, we can foster a workplace culture of respect and dignity.
B. Employees are strongly encouraged to report incidents of harassment promptly to their supervisor or designated reporting channel. All reports will be taken seriously and addressed with confidentiality and fairness. Retaliation against anyone who reports an incident or participates in an investigation will result in disciplinary action.
Employee Compensation
1. Fair Compensation
Employees are generally entitled to fair wages based on their level of experience, qualification and responsibility, in accordance with the Ghana Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651). Generally, if a worker is chronically late, then this amount of time may be deducted from their pay.
A. As of 2025, Ghana’s minimum wage is GH₵18.15 per day
B. The minimum wage adjusted to cost of living in Takoradi, Ghana is GH₵50 - GH₵70 per day
2. Income Tax & Pension
Your basic salary is subject to income tax, which will be deducted in accordance with rates set by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA). In addition, a 5.5% deduction will be made from your salary for social security contributions. SOAR will contribute an additional 13% on your behalf. You are required to provide your social security number by the end of your probationary period to ensure proper enrollment.
Benefits
1. Standard Employee Benefits
Employees are generally offered the following benefits regardless of full or part-time status.
A. End-of-year benefits, such as a Christmas bonus and other incentives.
B. A supplementary food allowance.
C. A custom t-shirt or other souvenirs with SOAR branding
D. Reduced transport costs when available
Annual Leave: 21 working days per year
Public Holidays: All recognized legal and religious holidays
Personal Time Off (PTO): Up to 5 days per year for personal needs such as health, family matters, or emergencies
Maternity Leave: As provided under Ghana Labour Law breach of trust, or robbery.
Grievance Procedures
Employees have the right to raise concerns or complaints about the workplace SOAR is committed to addressing grievances promptly and fairly.
Reporting
A transparent reporting process is crucial for maintaining accountability within the recycling program. Employees are expected to report any of the following types of incidents:
3. Behavioral Review The behavioral review will address any past incidents, concerns, or disciplinary reports related to the employee’s conduct.
any other relevant information. Reporting applies to all categories below and must be directed to a supervisor or designated reporting channel immediately.
Failure to perform maintenance checks (brakes, tires, oil, etc.)
Unsafe transportation of materials or load-related concerns
Nature of illness (general not detailed)
Expected duration of absence
o place o ale a d co es o , clud g
Insults, shouting, or fighting in the workplace
Public humiliation or intimidation
Persistent negativity or undermining of colleagues
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS & THANKS
This manual was developed in partnership with Sister Comfort Arthur and students from the University of Notre Dame’s chapter of Students Consulting for Nonprofit Organizations.
Ted Brassel | Co-Leader
Dominic Ford
Carmen Noe | Co -Leader
Alyssa Sirichoktanasup
Taylore Williams
J’nae Player
Tatum Smith
Dominic Sementilli
A special thanks to Katie Yohe, Dave O’Brien and Jillian Casey, who were instrumental in developing and guiding the creation of this handbook and supporting the broader mission of SOAR.