USCJ and USY takes every allegation seriously. When a report of concern or misconduct is made, USCJ will take appropriate action immediately and if a valid email is included, we will provide a response to the reporter within 24-48 hours. USCJ/USY will aim to fully resolve all complaints/allegations within 2-3 weeks. Sometimes, complaints/allegations may take longer to resolve. Depending on the report, appropriate action may include:
- Temporarily suspending a staff member, volunteer, or program participant until the report can be substantiated
- Contacting local protective authorities such as Child Protective Services or Police (for cases of child abuse/neglect only)
- Conducting an internal investigation
- Making a referral to behavioral health services (program participants only)
- Restorative justice (program participants only)
- Permanent separation from a staff, volunteer, or program participant upon report substantiation.
If the reported incident involves known or suspected child abuse/neglect, any investigation will be led entirely by local protective authorities and USCJ will cooperate to the fullest extent possible. If the reported incident does not involve known or suspected child abuse/neglect, USCJ will conduct an internal investigation. With the exception of the internal or external investigatory team, your identity will remain confidential throughout the entire process.
USCJ/USY is not required to inform parents or guardians that a report is being made to local protective authorities and will defer to the local protective authorities to determine when and what USCJ/USY can communicate with others. As mentioned above, local protective authorities will have complete authority over any report escalated to them and USCJ/USY will cooperate per their instructions.
In the event that USCJ/UST conducts an internal investigation, we will attempt to collect statements from any victim/survivors, bystanders, and witnesses listed in the report. We will also attempt to collect any relevant documentation such as screenshots, text messages, emails, or photos for review. We may need to speak with an individual more than once as more information comes to light.
After all gathered information has been reviewed, a final decision will be made and communicated to you. You may follow up on a report at any time by emailing
safeguarding@uscjusy.zohodesk.com, by responding to any email emails you have received regarding your report, or by creating an account with our self service portal where you can view your report at any time.