Whistleblower Policy

Last updated September 26, 2026

Table of Contents

  1. Purpose
  2. Scope
  3. Definition of Whistleblowing
  4. Reporting Procedures
  5. Protection Against Retaliation
  6. Confidentiality
  7. Investigation Process
  8. Documentation
  9. Enforcement
  10. Commitment to Transparency

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to promote transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct within the organization. JSO Transparency Project encourages individuals to report suspected misconduct, unethical behavior, or violations of laws, policies, or organizational standards. This policy protects individuals who report concerns in good faith from retaliation and ensures that reports are reviewed and addressed appropriately.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:
  • Board Members
  • Officers
  • Advisors
  • Volunteers
  • Contractors and individuals in decision-making roles
All individuals acting on behalf of the organization must comply with this policy.

3. Definition of Whistleblowing

Whistleblowing refers to the reporting of suspected wrongdoing, misconduct, or unethical activity related to the organization.

Concerns that may be reported include, but are not limited to:
  • Financial misconduct, fraud, or misuse of funds
  • Violations of laws, regulations, or organizational policies
  • Abuse of authority or unethical conduct
  • Failure to disclose conflicts of interest
  • Misrepresentation of information or organizational activities
  • Retaliation against individuals who report concerns
Reports should be made in good faith, meaning the individual reasonably believes the information reported is accurate or indicates a legitimate concern.

4. Reporting Procedures

All individuals covered by this policy should report concerns as soon as reasonably possible.

Reports may be made to:
  • A member of organizational leadership
  • The Board Chair
  • A designated officer responsible for compliance or oversight
Reports may be made verbally or in writing and should include sufficient information to allow the organization to understand and evaluate the concern. Anonymous reports may be accepted when possible, though providing contact information may assist in the investigation.

You can also submit a ticket or contact us directly.

5. Protection Against Retaliation

The organization strictly prohibits retaliation against any individual who reports a concern in good faith.

Retaliation may include, but is not limited to:
  • Harassment or intimidation
  • Removal from responsibilities or participation
  • Discrimination or adverse treatment
  • Threats or coercion
Any individual found to have engaged in retaliation may be subject to review and corrective action as determined by organizational leadership.

6. Confidentiality

Reports will be handled with appropriate discretion and confidentiality to the extent possible. Information related to a report will only be shared with individuals responsible for reviewing or investigating the concern. The organization will make reasonable efforts to protect the identity of individuals who report concerns.

7. Investigation Process

When a report is received:
  1. The concern will be documented and reviewed by appropriate leadership.
  2. The organization may conduct an investigation to determine the nature and validity of the concern.
  3. Leadership will determine appropriate actions based on the findings.
  4. Any actions taken will be documented in official organizational records.

8. Documentation

Reports and related actions may be documented in:
  • Meeting minutes
  • Administrative update logs
  • Official organizational records
This ensures transparency and accountability in how concerns are addressed.

9. Enforcement

Failure to comply with this policy may result in:
  • Review by organizational leadership
  • Removal from decision-making roles
  • Additional corrective actions as determined by the organization
Knowingly submitting false or malicious reports may also result in review and corrective action. All enforcement actions will be documented.

10. Commitment to Transparency

JSO Transparency Project is committed to ethical conduct, accountability, and responsible governance. Encouraging individuals to report concerns without fear of retaliation strengthens the organization's integrity and supports its mission to provide accurate, unbiased, and evidence-based information.