The Board of Directors of the United Way of Ventura County voted at its regular monthly meeting today to adopt a nondiscrimination policy that requires agencies receiving United Way funds to refrain from unlawful discrimination. “This policy is drafted to ensure that the Ventura County community has full access to the programs and services that United Way supports,” said David M. Smith, President and Chief Executive Officer.

The Board approved the policy as part of a general review of United Way’s operating procedures. At recent meetings, the Board has reviewed and approved changes to the organization’s bylaws and code of ethics. This periodic review ensures that United Way operates consistently with current law.

“United Way has great faith in the many organizations that offer health and human services in our community,” Smith said, “and this policy affirms our collective commitment to improving the lives of the people we serve.”

The policy replaces United Way’s prior policy, adopted in June 2001, which listed specific categories of people who are protected from discrimination. The revised policy omits specific categories, requiring only that agencies affirm that they will provide services, volunteer, and employment opportunities “without unlawfully discriminating on the basis of any characteristic protected by state or federal law.”

“In this constantly evolving area of the law, the Board decided to adopt a policy that reflects updated legal standards,” Michael L. Silacci, board chairman, explained. “As the law changes, United Way’s policy will automatically keep pace.”

The revised policy also assures continued eligibility for recipient agencies that provide services to targeted sectors of the community, such as youth organizations, as well as agencies that operate under the umbrella of religious institutions. The new policy states United Way’s commitment to support programs “that collectively serve the broadest spectrum of people in our community.”

“This policy is consistent with the values that United Way has always applied,” Silacci said. “No single person or organization can provide all the services that the people of Ventura County need. By joining together, we can truly mobilize the caring power of our community.”

Contact: David M. Smith, United Way of Ventura County – 805-485-6288 ext. 251
Michael L. Silacci, SBC – 213-445-6817


United Way of Ventura County - Non-Discrimination Policy

The United Way of Ventura County is committed to supporting health and human service non-profit organizations and programs that collectively serve the broadest spectrum of people in our community.

The United Way of Ventura County will fund only those health and human service non-profit organizations and programs that provide services and offer employment and volunteer opportunities without unlawfully discriminating on the basis of any characteristic protected by state or federal law. Each organization must affirm its compliance with this policy to be eligible for funding by the United Way of Ventura County.
Adopted 9/23/04