Open Door Policy

Midwest Pet and Handler Contest is committed to maintaining a safe, ethical, and accountable environment for all its attendees, members, and representatives. We encourage individuals to come forward with concerns, complaints, or feedback, and we are dedicated to addressing these matters promptly and effectively. This Open Door Policy outlines the process for reporting concerns and the steps we take to resolve them. 

Reporting a Concern:

If you have a concern related to Midwest Pet and Handler Contest, its members, or representatives, please follow these steps:

Identify the Concern:

Clearly identify the issue or concern you wish to report, including relevant details such as date, time, location, and individuals involved.

Choose Your Reporting Method:

  • Direct Contact: You may choose to speak directly to a trusted member of our organization, a board member, or a designated contact person to relay your information anonymously.

  • Virtual Contact: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram message or email ODP@MWPAH.org

  • Provide Contact Information (optional): While anonymous reports are accepted, providing your contact information allows us to follow up with you for additional information or clarification if needed. Your confidentiality will be respected to the extent permitted by law.

Investigation Process:

Upon receiving a concern report, Midwest Pet and Handler Contest will take the following steps:

  • Initial Assessment: We will review the submitted information and determine the appropriate course of action.

  • Investigation: If necessary, we will conduct a thorough and impartial investigation, ensuring all parties involved are heard.

  • Resolution: Once the investigation is complete, we will take appropriate action to address and resolve the concern. This may include corrective measures, disciplinary actions, or policy changes, as deemed necessary.

Decision-Making Process:

After the investigation is complete, the decision-making process will be as follows:

Title Holder or Board Member Concerns: If the incident reported concerns a title holder or a board member, the decision will be made by each board member voting on a rubric. Each board member will assign a number of points according to the severity of the infraction on a scale of 1-3 in a number of different categories, the total number of points will determine the appropriate course of action.

  • Internal Warning

  • Public Action/Response Needed

  • Loss of Role/Title

*Full rubric available upon request*

Policy Concerns: If the incident is related to a policy concern, the course of action will be made by a majority vote among the board members.

Response Time:

Midwest Pet and Handler Contest is committed to addressing concerns promptly. While the specific timeline may vary based on the nature and complexity of the concern, we aim to provide an initial response within five (5) business days of receiving the report.

Average Resolution Time:

The time required to resolve a concern will depend on the specifics of each case. However, we strive to resolve concerns within a reasonable timeframe, typically within two (2) weeks. We will keep the reporting party informed of the progress and expected resolution date as the investigation proceeds.

Confidentiality:

Midwest Pet and Handler Contest is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of all parties involved in a concern. Information related to the concern will only be shared with individuals directly involved in the resolution process and to the extent required by law.

Non-Retaliation:

Midwest Pet and Handler Contest strictly prohibits retaliation against individuals who report concerns in good faith. We will take all necessary steps to prevent and address any form of retaliation.

Conclusion:

We value the trust of our attendees, members, and representatives, and we encourage open communication. By reporting concerns, you help us maintain the integrity and effectiveness of our organization. We are dedicated to resolving concerns fairly and promptly while upholding our commitment to transparency and accountability.

If you have any questions or require assistance in reporting a concern, please contact ODP@MWPAH.org

This Open Door Policy is subject to periodic review and updates to ensure its effectiveness.

Midwest Pet and Handler Contest

[Date of Adoption/Last Revision] - 4/12/2024