Circle of Concern

“In 2018, the board of directors and the general membership voted to amend the bylaws of the organization. Significant changes to the amended bylaws include: 1. Removal of the general membership and its role in the governance of the organization 2. Allowing the board of directors sole power for approval of all proposed amendments to the organization's organizing documents 3. Increasing the number of voting members permitted to make up the board of directors to fifteen members through the removal of the organization's general membership, the board of directors is given complete responsibility for the governance of the organization. As such, the board of directors solely may approve proposed amendments to the organizing documents by an affirmative vote of three-fourths.”

“Once the 990 is completed by the independent accounting firm it is presented to the board of directors. Changes, if any, are communicated and incorporated for final approval by the board of directors prior to filing with internal revenue service.”

“Each year a conflict of interest disclosure statement is furnished to, and must be completed by, each director, paid staff member and volunteer involved in monetary transactions (e.g. Case and intake personnel, facilities superintendent, chairpersons of back to school, birthday club, holiday adoption, etc.) the disclosure statements are returned to the accounting office for the circle finance committee to review.”

“Circle of concern has tasked the personnel committee to annually review salaries and job performance of the executive director. The committee includes the president and additional board members and this committee does utilize comparable salary data from other local and regional food pantries and other charitable agencies. The personnel committee reports to the board of directors to receive authorization for salary amounts for budget and payment purposes. Form 990, part vi, section b, line 15b: circle of concern does not currently compensate any officers or key employees (per irs definition).”

“Circle of concern makes its governing documents, conflict of interest policy, and financial statements available to the public upon request through the executive director's office.”

“A public inspection copy of form 990 is also made available in the reception area of the organization's main building.”

“The food pantry distributions program was modified in 2018 to run as a "client choice" pantry, which allows clients to choose their own food items in a market-like setting rather than receiving pre-packed bags of food. This change addresses dietary, health, and cultural needs of our clients. It also reduces waste and creates a more dignified experience for clients.”

“The organization's finance committee, subject to board approval, is responsible for oversight of the audit of the organization's financial statements and selection of an independent accountant. The process has not changed since the prior year.”