Walton Options for Independent Living Inc.

“The Form 990 is presented in draft form to the board of directors prior to its submission. The board of directors is required to review the Form 990. After review, the meeting is open to discussion of the Form 990. After all comments and questions are settled, the board is asked to approve the Form 990 for submission. After approval, the Form 990 is finalized, signed and submitted.”

“Walton Options for Independent Living, Inc. has a conflict of interest policy that addresses both governing decisions and service delivery. The organization recognizes that for a conflict of interest policy to be effective a certain level of self-monitoring and professional ethics must exist within the governing body and employees themselves. As a small organization, governing decisions often have a personal impact on board members. In such cases, the executive director and board president take the initiative to disclose such and note that the potential director to whom the conflict relates will abstain from any vote.Service delivery relies much more on employee integrity because of the nature of the staff that provides services (people who also have disabilities). These staff members may at times request to access service opportunities such as peer support, information, and referral sources. Historically, the same application process is completed for all applicants for services (to include employees) and therefore all are subject to the same waiting periods. In addition, Human Resources routinely addresses policies and gives examples of potential conflicts of interest through internal communications provided to employees on a weekly basis.”

“The board of directors reviews and compares the 990's of other similar organization for comparison of compensation. All governing documents of the organization, conflict of interest policy, and financial statements are available upon written request approved by the Executive Committee, a member of the board of directors or a member of management.”

“Other organizational documents are made available upon request. Additionally, the Organization regularly holds meetings which are open to the public.”

“When covid-19 occurred, the organization pivoted like many to a hybrid model and service requests did shift. Also had to expand office space as a result of covid-19 in order to accommodate staff and services in a safe way. Further, since schools closed, one funding source ceased. The ability to pay for direct supports in some areas with cares funds was new. There was a decrease in employment services and an increase in requests for home and community living services.”