Danielle McMahon
Ombudsperson Role –
Adopted by Board of Trustees January 21st, 2024
Mission: to offer a confidential place to bring questions, suggestions, ideas, and concerns, about Unity’s operations, leadership, events, teams, individuals, etc. as our community spirituality awakens to our Oneness with God, each other and all creation.
Unity Spiritual Center of Lansing is not a mistake-free place, but we strive to create a blame-free space.
Questions: The Ombudsperson can explain policies and bylaws, operations.
Ideas and Suggestions: The Ombudsperson will help direct suggestions and ideas to the appropriate team or Board of Trustees. They will explore options to help implement new ideas.
Concerns: In the event of a complaint, the Ombudsperson will work with the person towards a resolution through appropriate policies and tools. Systemic concerns will be brought to the board of trustees. They will explore options to resolve disharmonic situations.
STANDARDS OF PRACTICE
- Independence: Ombudsperson officially reports to the Board of Trustees but is independent of the board structure.
- Written Report: Sends to the board monthly prior to board meeting. Report to include Topic (Suggestion or Concern), Action or request for action and Date. Names can be held confidential from the board if there is a need. (See “Confidentiality” below)
Confidentiality: Information concerning any discussion will not be disclosed without the congregant's permission, unless there is a compelling reason (e.g., a court order or potential risk to safety). On occasion, the Ombudspersons may, at the request of the congregant, and if appropriate, contact another party and seek additional information or clarification to better understand the nature of the problem.
- Neutrality: The position provides an impartial and objective resource for the Unity community.
- Informality: The Ombudsperson listens, seeks to understand, and provides information to help solve problems and create new opportunities.