There may come a time when a client/volunteer may feel he or she is not being treated fairly. If this circumstance occurs the client has the right to file a grievance complaint. Please follow the outline given below.
BEAT AIDS Coalition Trust encourages maximum communication between clients/volunteers at all levels. Each client should feel free to discuss with management any matter concerning his or her own or BEAT AIDS welfare. Clients/Volunteers are encouraged to put complaints and or concerns in writing for presentations to the appropriate personas as set forth below. The grievance process is described below. The grievance procedure is presented as a guideline only and does not create a contract or contractual obligations.
FIRST STEP: A discussion of the problem with the immediate supervisor should occur. The client/volunteer should discuss the problem honestly and openly, and every effort should be made by both to promptly arrive at a mutually satisfactory solution. If the solution is not satisfactory, then the client/volunteer should proceed to step two.
STEP TWO: If for some reason the client/volunteer does not wish to see the immediate supervisor, or if the results obtained do not bring satisfaction, upon a written request the client/volunteer may meet with the immediate supervisor’s supervisor. The meeting may be attended by the client/volunteer, the Department Coordinator, Program Manager, and/or Executive Director. Minutes of the meeting will be taken and a written decision will be made within three working weeks.
STEP THREE: If no satisfactory answer has been given at the second step, the client/volunteer may request to meet with the Executive Director. The client/volunteer must submit a written request stating the reason(s) for the meeting. The Executive Director will meet the client/volunteer after the request is received. A decision will be rendered in writing within 7 working days after the meeting, unless the Executive Director is involved, in which case a written (confidential) request is given to the Executive Director for the Chairman of the Board in order that a meeting is set.
STEP FOUR: The client/volunteer may request a meeting with the Chairman of the Board by contacting the Executive Director for an appointment. The client/volunteer should bring all documentation of his/her grievance and the result of the last review. At this point, if the solution is not satisfactory, the client/volunteer should proceed to step five.
STEP FIVE: The client/volunteer can ask the Chairman of the Board to set up a meeting with the full Board of Directors. The client/volunteer should bring all documentation of his/her grievance and the results thereof. Please be advised that the majority decision at this level is FINAL.
NOTE: If the grievance/concern is perceived as a conflict of interest to the Executive Director (i.e. nepotism), the grievance will be reviewed by an objective party. An uninterested party (e.g. lead agency representative) will be appointed by the Board of Directors to resolve the grievance. Please be advised that the majority decision at this level is FINAL.
By signing this form, you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and received a copy of your rights.