Whistleblower Policy for the Chicago Police Foundation

Purpose:

The Chicago Police Foundation (CPF) is committed to upholding the highest standards of ethics, integrity, and accountability in all aspects of its operations. As part of this commitment, CPF encourages its directors, officers, employees, volunteers, and stakeholders to report concerns about unethical or illegal activities, violations of organizational policies, or actions that may pose risks to the organization or the community. This Whistleblower Policy outlines procedures for reporting and investigating such concerns in a confidential and protected manner.

Scope:

This policy applies to all directors, officers, employees, volunteers, and stakeholders of the Chicago Police Foundation.

Policy:

Reporting Concerns:

Any individual who becomes aware of conduct that they believe violates legal or ethical standards, CPF policies, or poses a risk to CPF's operations or reputation, should promptly report their concerns. This can include, but is not limited to, financial misconduct, fraud, harassment, conflicts of interest, or violations of law.

 Reporting Channels:

Concerns should be reported directly to the Executive Director of the Chicago Police Foundation or the President of the Board of Directors. If, for any reason an individual is uncomfortable reporting to these persons, they may report to any member of the Board of Directors.

Confidentiality:

Reports of concerns will be handled with the utmost confidentiality to the extent possible, considering the need to conduct a thorough investigation. Confidentiality will be maintained within legal constraints and the necessity to investigate.

 No Retaliation:

CPF prohibits retaliation against individuals who report concerns in good faith. Any form of retaliation against whistleblowers will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or association with CPF.

Investigation and Resolution:

Upon receipt of a report, CPF will promptly investigate the matter in a fair and impartial manner. Investigations may involve gathering information, interviewing relevant parties, and taking appropriate corrective actions if wrongdoing is substantiated.

Documentation and Reporting:

Records of all reported concerns, investigations, and actions taken will be maintained in a secure and confidential manner. A summary of whistleblower reports and actions taken will be reported to the Executive Director or the Board of Directors as appropriate.

 Policy Review:

This Whistleblower Policy will be reviewed periodically by the CPF Board of Directors to ensure its effectiveness and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

Protection:

CPF recognizes the importance of protecting whistleblowers from adverse consequences and is committed to maintaining a supportive environment where ethical concerns can be raised without fear of reprisal.

Acknowledgment:

All directors, officers, employees, volunteers, and stakeholders of CPF are expected to familiarize themselves with and adhere to this Whistleblower Policy. By reporting concerns in accordance with this policy, individuals contribute to CPF's mission of integrity and accountability in serving the community.

Effective Date:

This Whistleblower Policy is effective upon adoption by the Board of Directors of the Chicago Police Foundation.

Conclusion:

The Chicago Police Foundation values transparency and accountability in all aspects of its operations. This Whistleblower Policy reflects CPF's commitment to maintaining high ethical standards and providing mechanisms for individuals to raise concerns confidently and responsibly.