WIFA has adopted grievance procedures to provide for the prompt and equitable resolution of complaints alleging discrimination. For more information or to file a complaint, please follow the instructions below:

Step 1: Filing a Complaint

Any person who believes they have been subjected to discrimination may submit a written complaint to WIFA's Civil Rights Coordinator within 180 days of the alleged incident.

The complaint must include:

• The complainant's name, address, and contact information
• A description of the alleged discriminatory act
• The date(s) of the alleged act(s)
• The name(s) of individual(s) or program(s) involved (if known)

Complaints should be submitted to:

WIFA's Non-Discrimination Coordinator
Samantha Lemke, Senior Project Manager
3300 N. Central Avenue, Suite 1050
Phoenix, AZ 85012
(602) 647-3520
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

As WIFA’s Civil Rights Coordinator, Samantha Lemke is responsible for ensuring the agency’s full compliance with federal nondiscrimination laws, including Title VI, Title IX, Section 504, and others enforced by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The Civil Rights Coordinator oversees the implementation of grievance procedures, coordinates civil rights investigations, monitors subrecipient compliance, and ensures that WIFA’s programs and services are accessible to individuals with disabilities and those with limited English proficiency. The Civil Rights Coordinator also maintains civil rights-related data, facilitates training and public communication, and works to promote equitable access and participation across all WIFA-funded activities

Step 2: Acknowledgement

WIFA will acknowledge receipt of the complaint in writing within 10 business days and begin an internal review.

Step 3: Investigation

The Civil Rights Coordinator designee will conduct a thorough and impartial investigation, including interviews with involved parties and review of any relevant documents.

Step 4: Determination

Within 60 days, WIFA will provide the complainant with a written decision outlining the findings and any actions taken, including corrective or remedial measures if a violation is found.

Step 5: Appeal

If the complainant is dissatisfied with WIFA's determination, they may file a complaint directly with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Office of External Civil Rights Compliance (OECRC):
https://www.epa.gov/external-civil-rights

Access for Persons with Disabilities and Persons with Limited English Proficiency (LEP)

WIFA takes reasonable steps to ensure meaningful access to its programs and services, including language assistance services and accommodations for individuals with disabilities, at no cost.

Data Collection and Maintenance

WIFA maintains demographic data, complaint logs, and other information required by the EPA to demonstrate compliance with civil rights requirements.

Public Participation and Nondiscrimination

WIFA ensures that public participation processes are inclusive and accessible, and that no person is denied access due to race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability.

Retaliation Prohibited

WIFA does not intimidate or retaliate against any individual or group because they have exercised their rights to participate in actions protected, or oppose action prohibited, by 40 C.F.R. Parts 5 and 7, or for the purpose of interfering with such rights.

Prompt Resolution of Complaints

WIFA is committed to the prompt and fair resolution of complaints which allege a violation of federal non-discrimination laws.