1. Purpose
The Humane Choices Foundation (the Organization) is committed to ethical conduct, legal compliance, and accountability in all its operations. This policy encourages and protects individuals who, in good faith, report concerns about suspected wrongdoing, illegal activity, financial misconduct, or violations of organizational policy.
2. Scope
This policy applies to Board members, staff, volunteers, contractors, and any other person associated with the Organization.
3. Reportable Concerns
Individuals are encouraged to report concerns including but not limited to:
- Fraud, theft, or financial mismanagement involving organizational funds or assets
- Violations of applicable laws, regulations, or government reporting requirements
- Misuse of the Organization's name, brand, or charitable status
- Conduct that contradicts the Organization's animal welfare, vegan, or environmental mission
- Harassment, discrimination, or abuse of any person associated with the Organization
- Violations of any organizational policy
4. How to Report
Reports may be made through any of the following channels:
- Human Resources
- Directly to the Executive Director
- Directly to the Board Chair
- In writing to the Organization's registered address, marked confidential
Where the concern involves the Executive Director, the report should be made directly to the Board Chair. Where the concern involves the Board Chair, it should be directed to another Board officer or the full Board.
5. Confidentiality
The Organization will make every reasonable effort to protect the identity of any individual who makes a report in good faith. Confidentiality cannot be guaranteed where disclosure is required by law or where the matter cannot be properly investigated without identifying the reporter.
6. Non-Retaliation
The Organization strictly prohibits retaliation against any individual who makes a good-faith report under this policy. Retaliation includes but is not limited to termination, demotion, harassment, exclusion, or any other adverse treatment. Any individual who retaliates against a reporter will be subject to disciplinary action.
7. False Reports
This policy does not protect individuals who knowingly make false or malicious reports. Such conduct may result in disciplinary action.
8. Investigation Process
All reports will be reviewed promptly. The Board Chair or a designated investigator will oversee the investigation. The reporter will be informed of the outcome to the extent permitted by confidentiality obligations.
9. Annual Review
This policy will be reviewed annually. All covered individuals will acknowledge having re-read Organization policies at least once annually.
For questions about this policy, please contact us at info@humanechoice.org.