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Grievance Procedures for Alleged Violations of 40 C.F.R. Parts 5 and 7
Introduction: Grow Arizona Workforce Network, a nonprofit organization serving youth and young adults, is committed to compliance with all applicable federal regulations, including 40 C.F.R. Parts 5 and 7, which prohibit discrimination in programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance. These grievance procedures are established to ensure the prompt and fair resolution of complaints that allege a violation of these regulations.
Scope: These procedures apply to all individuals participating in or affected by the programs, activities, or services offered by Grow Arizona Workforce Network. This grievance procedure covers complaints alleging discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability, as prohibited by 40 C.F.R. Parts 5 and 7.
Step 1: Filing a Complaint
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Any individual who believes they have been subjected to discrimination may file a written grievance.
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Complaints must be submitted within 180 days of the alleged discriminatory act.
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The grievance must include:
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The complainant's name, contact information, and signature.
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A detailed description of the alleged violation, including dates, names of involved parties, and specific actions or incidents.
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Any relevant documentation supporting the complaint.
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Complaints should be submitted to: Grow Arizona Workforce Network Attention: Executive Director
[Insert contact address, phone number, and email address]
Step 2: Acknowledgment and Initial Review
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Upon receipt of a grievance, the Executive Director or designated staff member will acknowledge receipt in writing within 10 business days.
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The grievance will be reviewed to determine if it alleges a violation of 40 C.F.R. Parts 5 or 7 and if it is within the 180-day timeframe.
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If the complaint does not meet these criteria, the complainant will be notified in writing, and the complaint will be dismissed.
Step 3: Investigation
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If the complaint is valid, the Executive Director or designee will conduct an investigation. This may involve interviews, document reviews, and any other relevant steps to gather information.
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The investigation will be completed within 45 days of receiving the complaint, unless additional time is required due to the complexity of the case. The complainant will be notified if an extension is needed.
Step 4: Resolution and Notification
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Upon completing the investigation, the findings and a proposed resolution will be provided to the complainant in writing.
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The resolution may include corrective actions, staff retraining, policy changes, or other measures to address the grievance and prevent future occurrences.
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If the complainant is dissatisfied with the proposed resolution, they may request a review by the Grow Arizona Workforce Network Board of Directors.
Step 5: Appeal Process
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If the complainant wishes to appeal the resolution, they must submit a written request for review to the Board of Directors within 15 business days of receiving the proposed resolution.
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The Board will review the case and may request additional information, conduct further investigation, or hold a hearing.
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The Board's decision will be provided in writing within 30 days of receiving the appeal. The decision of the Board is final.
Step 6: Recordkeeping and Reporting
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Grow Arizona Workforce Network will maintain records of all grievances filed, the outcomes of investigations, and any corrective actions taken for at least three years.
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Annual reports summarizing complaints and resolutions will be made available to relevant stakeholders, including federal oversight agencies, as required by law.
Step 7: Non-Retaliation
Grow Arizona Workforce Network strictly prohibits retaliation against any individual who files a grievance or participates in an investigation. Any reports of retaliation will be investigated, and appropriate action will be taken.
External Complaints
Complainants have the right to file a complaint directly with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Civil Rights or other federal agencies responsible for enforcing 40 C.F.R. Parts 5 and 7.