Whistleblower Policy

Purpose
The purpose of this Whistleblower Policy is to encourage and enable employees, volunteers, and board members of First Friends of New Jersey and New York (the “Organization”) to report any concerns regarding illegal, unethical, or improper conduct within the Organization. This policy aims to protect individuals who report such concerns from retaliation.

Policy
First Friends of New Jersey and New York prohibits any form of retaliation against individuals who, in good faith, report suspected misconduct or participate in investigations regarding such misconduct. This policy extends to reports made internally within the Organization or externally to appropriate authorities.

Scope
This policy applies to all employees, volunteers, and board members of the Organization.

Reporting Procedures
1. **Reporting Concerns**:
– Individuals are encouraged to report any concerns about potential illegal, unethical, or improper conduct. Reports can be made in writing or verbally to a supervisor, manager, or designated whistleblower officer.
2. **Anonymous Reporting**:
– Individuals may choose to report concerns anonymously. However, providing contact information may facilitate a more thorough investigation.
3. **Types of Concerns to Report**:
– Violations of laws or regulations.
– Fraud or financial misconduct.
– Misuse of Organization resources.
– Harassment or discrimination.
– Any other conduct that may be harmful to the Organization or its mission.

Investigation
1. **Prompt Response**:
– The Organization will investigate all reports promptly and thoroughly. Investigations will be conducted in a manner that respects confidentiality and protects the rights of all parties involved.
2. **Cooperation**:
– All employees, volunteers, and board members are expected to cooperate fully in any investigation.
3. **Confidentiality**:
– The Organization will make every effort to keep the identity of the whistleblower confidential, to the extent possible.

Retaliation
1. **Prohibition Against Retaliation**:
– The Organization prohibits retaliation against anyone who reports concerns in good faith or participates in an investigation. Retaliation includes, but is not limited to, termination, demotion, harassment, or any adverse employment action.
2. **Reporting Retaliation**:
– If an individual believes they have experienced retaliation, they should report it immediately following the same reporting procedures outlined above.

Disciplinary Action
Any employee, volunteer, or board member found to have engaged in retaliation against a whistleblower or who fails to report suspected misconduct may face disciplinary action, up to and including termination or removal from the Organization.

Review and Amendment
This Whistleblower Policy will be reviewed periodically by the Board of Directors and may be amended as necessary to ensure compliance with applicable laws and best practices.