1. Purpose

To empower partners, volunteers, and stakeholders to report credible concerns about misconduct (e.g., violations of law, nonprofit policy violations, fraud, discrimination, harassment) without fear of retaliation, enabling early detection and corrective action.

2. Scope

Applies to all directors, officers, employees, volunteers, interns, donors, contractors, and vendors.

3. Protected Disclosures

Good-faith reports of:

• Legal breaches (e.g., tax, employment, criminal laws)
• Violations of organizational policies or ethics
• Suspected fraud, abuse, or financial misreporting
• Harassment, discrimination, or unsafe practices

4. Reporter Eligibility

Any individual aware of wrongdoing may report. Reports must be made in good faith, with a reasonable belief of accuracy.

5. Reporting Channels

Reports may be submitted:

• In writing or verbally to any Board Member
• Directly to the Fisher House Kansas City Manager

For concerns involving those above individuals, reports may instead go to the Board Chair.

6. Confidentiality & Anonymity

• Reports will be handled confidentially to the fullest extent allowed by law.
• Anonymous submissions are accepted and considered actionable.

7. No Retaliation

We strictly prohibit retaliation (e.g., dismissal, demotion, harassment, discrimination) against whistleblowers making good-faith reports.

Violators will face disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal from Board. This adheres to IRS best practices for exempt organizations and state/federal whistleblower protections.

8. Investigation Process

• The Board President will promptly evaluate the report (within 5 business days).
• A thorough investigation will be carried out, possibly involving external resources.
• The whistleblower will receive update(s) on status and outcome, consistent with confidentiality requirements.

9. Remedial Measures

If misconduct is confirmed, the organization will take appropriate corrective actions—disciplinary, legal, procedural—as guided by the Board.

10. Record Retention & Reporting

Documentation of all reports and investigations will be retained securely for at least seven years. The Board will receive an annual summary of whistleblower reports and outcomes (excluding identifying details) to ensure oversight.

11. Annual Review

The Board will review this policy annually, or as needed, to ensure it remains effective, compliant with law, and fosters transparency.