1. Purpose
Shaome Cooperative, Inc. (“Shaome”) is committed to operating with integrity, transparency, and accountability. This Whistleblower Policy encourages employees, contractors, volunteers, and stakeholders to report in good faith any suspected misconduct, illegal activity, or violations of organizational policies without fear of retaliation.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all individuals associated with Shaome, including:
- Board of Directors
- Employees
- Independent contractors (1099)
- Volunteers
- Program participants and partners
3. Reportable Concerns
Individuals are encouraged to report concerns including, but not limited to:
- Fraud, theft, or misuse of funds or assets
- Financial mismanagement or accounting irregularities
- Violations of federal, state, or local laws
- Conflicts of interest not properly disclosed
- Unsafe practices or conduct
- Harassment, discrimination, or unethical behavior
- Abuse of authority or misconduct in program delivery
4. Reporting Procedures
Reports may be made in good faith through any of the following channels:
- Executive Director / CEO
- Board Chair or designated Board member
- Written report (email or letter) to: ethics@shaome.com
- Anonymous submission (if preferred)
If the concern involves senior leadership, reports should be directed to the Board of Directors. The ethics@shaome.com email address is designated as a confidential reporting channel for submitting concerns related to misconduct, unethical behavior, or policy violations. Reports submitted through this channel will be reviewed promptly and handled with discretion.
Reports should include as much detail as possible, including:
- Description of the concern
- Relevant dates and individuals involved
- Any supporting documentation
5. Confidentiality
Shaome will make every effort to protect the identity of individuals who report concerns. Information will be shared only on a need-to-know basis to conduct a proper investigation.
Anonymous reports will be accepted; however, sufficient information must be provided to allow for investigation.
6. Non-Retaliation
Shaome strictly prohibits retaliation against any individual who, in good faith, reports a concern or participates in an investigation.
Retaliation includes, but is not limited to:
- Termination or removal from role
- Reduction in responsibilities
- Harassment or intimidation
- Adverse changes in work or volunteer conditions
Any act of retaliation will result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or affiliation.
7. Investigation Process
All reports will be taken seriously and reviewed promptly.
- The appropriate party (CEO or Board) will determine how the investigation is conducted
- Investigations will be handled impartially and discreetly
- Corrective action will be taken as necessary based on findings
8. Good Faith Reporting
Reports must be made in good faith. Knowingly making false or malicious claims may result in disciplinary action.
9. Recordkeeping
Shaome will maintain records of all reported concerns and their resolution in accordance with applicable laws and organizational policies.
10. Policy Oversight
The Board of Directors is responsible for oversight of this policy and ensuring its proper implementation. The policy will be reviewed periodically and updated as needed.
11. Acknowledgment
All employees, contractors, and volunteers may be asked to acknowledge receipt and understanding of this policy.
Board Adoption
This Whistleblower Policy was adopted by the Board of Directors of Shaome Cooperative, Inc. on: May 3, 2026.
If you have any questions or suggestions about our Whistleblower Policy, do not hesitate to contact us at ethics@shaome.com.