Anti-Discrimination Policy
Carolina Thomas is committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability in our programs, services, aid, and activities. This policy applies to everyone, regardless of whether they are a participant in a program, receive services, or interact with our organization in any way.
Prohibited Conduct
Discrimination includes, but is not limited to, the following:
- Denial of access: Denying someone full and equal participation in our programs, services, aid, and activities.
- Differential treatment: Treating someone differently on the basis of a protected characteristic.
- Harassment: Creating a hostile or intimidating environment through verbal or nonverbal conduct.
- Retaliation: Taking action against someone for filing a complaint of discrimination.
Grievance Procedure
If you believe you have been discriminated against by Carolina Thomas, you have the right to file a grievance.
How to File a Grievance
- Informal Complaint: You can file an informal complaint by contacting our designated Grievance Officer, Laura Evans, at (336) 851-1718 or levans@carolinathomas.com. You can describe the incident verbally or in writing.
- Formal Complaint: If you are not satisfied with the informal process or prefer to file a formal complaint, you can submit a written complaint to Laura Evans at P.O. Box 18209, Greensboro, NC 27419.
Your written complaint should include:
- Your name and contact information.
- The date(s) of the alleged discrimination.
- A description of the incident(s), including the names of any individuals involved.
- Any witnesses to the incident(s).
- The outcome you are seeking.
Investigation Process
We will promptly investigate all complaints of discrimination. The investigation will be conducted by a designated individual who is impartial to the situation. You will be kept informed of the progress of the investigation.
Resolution
We will take appropriate action to address the complaint, which may include corrective action, disciplinary action, or other measures deemed appropriate. We will attempt to resolve the complaint in a fair and timely manner.
Confidentiality
We will maintain the confidentiality of all information related to the complaint to the extent possible.
Right to File a Complaint with External Agencies
This grievance procedure does not limit your right to file a complaint with an external agency, such as the following:
- U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division: https://www.justice.gov/crt
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights: https://www.hhs.gov/ocr/index.html
Training and Communication
We will provide training to our staff and volunteers on this Anti-Discrimination Policy and grievance procedures. This policy will be made readily available to the public through our website and by hard copy upon request.
Revisions to this Policy
We reserve the right to revise this policy at any time. We will make any revisions readily available to the public.
Contact Information
For questions regarding this Anti-discrimination Policy or the grievance procedure, please contact:
Name: Kelly Rivera
Title: General Manager
Phone Number: 336-687-4765
Email Address: krivera@carolinathomas.com