Commitment to Nondiscrimination

Big Bend Conservation Alliance remains steadfast in its commitment to providing equal access to its programs and activities without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. Our policies are designed to ensure that all individuals can participate fully in our programs and services.

For more information, please contact Shelley Bernstein, Executive Director at 432-558-8328 or shelley@bigbendconservationalliance.org.

Designation of Compliance Coordinator

Big Bend Conservation Alliance is committed to ensuring compliance with federal regulations prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability in its programs and activities. As part of this commitment, and in accordance with 40 C.F.R. Parts 5 and 7, the organization has designated the following employee to coordinate compliance efforts:

Compliance Coordinator:

Shelley Bernstein
Executive Director
PO Box 1721
Alpine, Texas 79831
432-558-8328
shelley@bigbendconservationalliance.org

The Compliance Coordinator is responsible for overseeing the implementation of nondiscrimination policies and procedures, handling complaints of discrimination, and ensuring that all staff and participants are informed of their rights under these regulations.

For any questions or concerns regarding our compliance with 40 C.F.R. Parts 5 and 7, please contact the Compliance Coordinator at the contact information provided.

Grievance Procedures for Resolving Complaints of Discrimination

Big Bend Conservation Alliance is dedicated to providing an environment that is free from discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. In compliance with 40 C.F.R. Parts 5 and 7, Big Bend Conservation Alliance has established grievance procedures designed to ensure the prompt and fair resolution of complaints alleging violations of these regulations.

Grievance Procedure Summary:

  1. Filing a Complaint: Complaints must be submitted in writing to the designated Compliance Coordinator within 15 days of the alleged discriminatory act. The complaint should include the complainant’s name, contact information, a description of the alleged discrimination, and any supporting documentation.

  2. Acknowledgment: The Compliance Coordinator will acknowledge receipt of the complaint within 15 business days and provide information about the next steps in the grievance process.

  3. Investigation: The Compliance Coordinator will conduct a thorough and impartial investigation of the complaint, which may include interviews with the complainant, the respondent, and any witnesses, as well as a review of relevant documents.

  4. Resolution: Upon completion of the investigation, the Compliance Coordinator will issue a written determination regarding the findings and any corrective actions to be taken. This determination will be provided to the complainant and the respondent within 45 days of the filing of the complaint.

  5. Appeals: If the complainant or respondent is not satisfied with the resolution, they may appeal the decision to the Big Bend Conservation Alliance Board of Directors within 15 days of receiving the determination. A final decision will be made by the Big Bend Conservation Alliance Board of Directors within 30 days.