Standard A15 Explained

Why is it important for Level 3 organizations to have a whistleblower policy? Whistleblower policies and procedures protect individuals who discover that an organization is engaged in illegal practices or conduct that goes against an organization’s policies or other governing documents. Ensuring that “whistleblowers” who disclose illegal or unethical practices are protected from retaliation cultivates transparency and accountability in the workplace.¹ Protecting whistleblowers also increases the likelihood that nonprofit or charitable organizations will be made aware of unethical or illegal conduct internally instead of from law enforcement, other regulatory bodies, or the media.¹

From "Accreditation Preparation Workbook Section A: Board Governance,"  Katharine Zywert, Social Prosperity Wood Buffalo at the University of Waterloo, 2013.

1. “Whistleblower Protections in the Nonprofit Sector,” Jason M. Zuckerman, Nonprofit Risk Management Center.