Grievance Prodedures

ChangeMakers Community Economic Development Corporation
Grievance Procedures for Alleged Violations of 40 C.F.R. Parts 5 and 7

Purpose
These grievance procedures are established to ensure the prompt and fair resolution of complaints alleging violations of 40 C.F.R. Parts 5 and 7, which prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, sex, or age in programs or activities receiving federal financial assistance.

Scope
These procedures apply to all individuals who believe they have been subjected to discrimination in any program or activity administered by ChangeMakers Community Economic Development Corporation (ChangeMakers).

1. Filing a Complaint

  • Who May File: Any individual or group who believes they have been subjected to discrimination may file a complaint.

  • Where to File: Complaints must be submitted in writing to the designated Civil Rights Coordinator at ChangeMakers’ main office:
    Civil Rights Coordinator
    ChangeMakers Community Economic Development Corporation
    P.O. Box 27 Pahoa, HI 96778
    admin@changemakershawaii.org
    808-430-1851

  • Timing: Complaints must be filed within 180 calendar days of the alleged act of discrimination.

2. Complaint Contents

The written complaint must include:

  1. The complainant's name, address, and contact information.

  2. A detailed description of the alleged discriminatory act(s), including the date(s) and location(s).

  3. The names of individuals involved (if known).

  4. The complainant’s desired resolution.

3. Complaint Acknowledgment

Upon receipt of a complaint, ChangeMakers will:

  • Acknowledge receipt of the complaint in writing within 10 business days.

  • Inform the complainant of the next steps in the review process.

4. Investigation

The Civil Rights Coordinator will investigate the complaint, including:

  • Gathering relevant information and documents.

  • Interviewing the complainant, witnesses, and any individuals involved in the alleged incident.

The investigation will be completed within 30 business days of receipt of the complaint. Extensions may be granted if warranted, with written notice provided to the complainant.

5. Findings and Resolution

  • Findings: A written determination will be provided to the complainant within 10 business days of completing the investigation. The determination will state whether a violation of 40 C.F.R. Parts 5 or 7 occurred and outline any corrective actions to be taken.

  • Resolution: If a violation is found, ChangeMakers will implement appropriate corrective measures, which may include policy changes, training, or other remedies to address the discriminatory conduct.

6. Appeals

If the complainant disagrees with the findings or resolution, they may file an appeal within 15 business days of receiving the determination. Appeals should be directed to:
Executive Director
ChangeMakers Community Economic Development Corporation
179 Kauhane Ave Hilo, HI 96720
admin@changemakershawaii.org

The Executive Director or their designee will review the appeal and provide a final written decision within 30 business days.

7. External Filing Option

Complainants are advised that they may file a complaint directly with:
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Office of Civil Rights
Mail Code 1201A
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20460
https://www.epa.gov/ocr

8. Confidentiality

ChangeMakers will maintain confidentiality to the extent possible, consistent with the need to investigate and resolve complaints.

9. Retaliation Prohibited

Retaliation against any individual who files a complaint, participates in an investigation, or opposes discriminatory practices is strictly prohibited.

Effective Date: 10/1/2024
Approved By: Joel Lilly, Executive Director