Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy

1. Purpose

Sage’s Haven Animal Resource Krew (HARK) is committed to providing an inclusive, diverse, and respectful environment where all individuals are treated with fairness and dignity. We believe that diverse perspectives strengthen our ability to fulfill our mission of helping animals in need.

Our EEO policy reflects our commitment to ensuring that employment and volunteer opportunities are based on merit and align with our core values. We do not tolerate discrimination, harassment, or retaliation in any form.

2. Policy Statement

Sage’s HARK provides equal opportunity to all employees, volunteers, and applicants. We prohibit discrimination and harassment based on the following protected categories:

• Race, color, or ethnicity

• Religion or creed

• Gender, gender identity, or gender expression

• Sexual orientation

• National origin or citizenship

• Age

• Disability or medical condition

• Pregnancy, childbirth, or related conditions

• Military or veteran status

• Genetic information

• Any other status protected under federal, state, or local laws

This policy applies to recruitment, hiring, promotion, compensation, training, termination, and all other aspects of employment and volunteer service.

3. Reporting Violations and Concerns

If you experience, witness, or become aware of discrimination, harassment, or other violations of this policy, Sage’s HARK encourages you to speak up immediately. All concerns will be treated seriously and investigated promptly and fairly.

How to Report a Violation:

• Speak with your supervisor or volunteer coordinator.

• Email the leadership team at 

1. LetsTalk@sages-hark.org

2. chasity.spitznogle@sages-hark.org

• Report through the anonymous feedback form.

If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable reporting to your direct supervisor, you may escalate the issue directly to the Executive Director or designated Human Resources contact.

4. Non-Retaliation Policy

Sage’s HARK strictly prohibits retaliation against anyone who reports a violation or participates in an investigation. Any acts of retaliation will result in disciplinary action, including potential termination or removal from volunteer service.

5. Investigative Process

When a report is received:

• Confidentiality will be maintained to the extent possible.

• An impartial investigation will be conducted promptly.

• Appropriate actions will be taken if a violation is confirmed. This may include warnings, termination, or other corrective measures.

6. Policy Enforcement

Violations of the EEO policy will result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment or removal from volunteer service.

7. Acknowledgment of Policy

All employees and volunteers are required to acknowledge receipt and understanding of this policy. By signing, you agree to comply with the policy and understand the procedures for reporting violations.

This policy ensures Sage’s HARK maintains a workplace and volunteer environment that is welcoming, fair, and free from discrimination and harassment. Thank you for your commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive space for everyone involved.

Sage’s HARK Complaint/Incident Report Form

This form allows employees, volunteers, or participants to report discrimination, harassment, or other policy violations confidentially and formally.

Name of Complainant: ______________________________ (Optional if anonymous)

Role:
☐ Employee
☐ Volunteer
☐ Other: ______________________________

Date of Incident: __________________________________

Location of Incident: _______________________________

Individuals Involved (if known):

Description of Incident:
(Provide as many details as possible, including what happened, who was involved, and any relevant conversations or actions.)

Were there any witnesses?
☐ Yes ☐ No
If yes, please provide their names: ____________________________________________

Have you discussed this matter with anyone?
☐ Yes ☐ No
If yes, who: _________________________________________________________________

Requested Action (if any):

Signature: ________________________________________
Date: ___________________________________________

(If submitting anonymously, skip the signature.

Where to Submit This Form

• Email it to GuildResources@sages-hark.org 

• Submit it in person to a supervisor, volunteer coordinator, or designated HR representative.

• Use the anonymous feedback form