YouthBuild Student Handbook

WELCOME TO GOODWILL-EASTER SEALS

MINNESOTA YOUTHBUILD!

Congratulations! You have been chosen to participate in Goodwill-Easter

Seals YouthBuild (GESYB). We expect the best of our YouthBuild students. By
choosing to participate in this program you have made a commitment to
your family, your community and your career to make a positive change. We,
GESYB staff, intend to help you in that process.

Students will be asked to sign a form stating that they have received and
agreed to the rules and standards of behavior expected of all YouthBuild
students. This handbook also describes the consequences for violating the
standards of behavior.

Goodwill-Easter Seals MN (GES) reserves the right to make changes to this

handbook at any time. If changes are made students will be notified in
writing within 15 calendar days.

Equal Opportunity Statement

GESYB is an equal opportunity program and does not discriminate based on race,
color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, or national origin.
GESYB is funded by a grant awarded to GES by the United States Department of
Labor Employment and Training Administration. Programs funded through Workforce
 Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), such as GESYB, are equal opportunity
programs with aids and services available upon request to individuals with
disabilities.

TABLE of CONTENTS
GENERAL INFORMATION................................................................4
Goal of YouthBuild......................................................................4
YouthBuild Mission.....................................................................4
GES Mission...............................................................................4
GES Core Values.........................................................................4
Ethical Standards.......................................................................5
Student and Staff Boundaries.....................................................5
Student Rights...........................................................................6
Primary YouthBuild Contacts.......................................................6
Dress Code................................................................................7
Use of Tobacco and Nicotine Products..........................................7
Visitors...................................................................................... 7
Personal Belongings and Electronics...........................................7
Storage of Medications...............................................................8
GESYB Worksite Property............................................................8
Recording Devices......................................................................8
PROGRAM OVERVIEW....................................................................9
Schedule...................................................................................9
Emergency Closings and Late Starts............................................9
Daily Activities........................................................................... 9
Academic Instruction................................................................10
Construction Training...............................................................10
Leadership Development..........................................................10
Youth Policy Committee............................................................10
Attendance..............................................................................11
Stipend Information..................................................................11

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 Completion Requirements.........................................................12
Requirements after Graduation.................................................12

SAFETY......................................................................................13
General Safety Practices...........................................................13
Accident Prevention.................................................................13
Injury....................................................................................... 13
Workers Compensation Insurance.............................................14
Emergency Contacts.................................................................14
Transportation.........................................................................14
BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS and CORRECTIVE ACTIONS....................15
Attitude and Behavior...............................................................15
Corrective Actions....................................................................15
Theft....................................................................................... 16
Possession of Weapons.............................................................16
Discrimination and Harassment.................................................16
Illegal Drugs and Alcohol..........................................................16
Lying, Spreading False Information and Creating Rumors............16
Grievance Procedure................................................................17
ACTS and LEGAL RESOURCES.......................................................18
Minnesota Vulnerable Adults Act...............................................18
Maltreatment of Minors Act.......................................................19
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Laws......................20
Community Assistance Agencies................................................22

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 GENERAL INFORMATION
Goal of YouthBuild
GESYB will provide students with the support and assistance they need as
they work toward achieving the following goals:
Completing a high school education
Learning the vocational skills necessary to achieve economic self-
sufficiency and earning industry-recognized certifications
Exploring postsecondary education and employment opportunities
Performing meaningful work and service to their communities
Developing leadership skills and a commitment to community
development

YouthBuild Mission
The mission of YouthBuild is to unleash the intelligence and positive energy
of low-income young people to rebuild their communities and lives. We
accomplish this through coordinated efforts with our partners and will
provide a structured work experience designed to encourage behavioral skills
appropriate for the workplace.

GES Mission
The mission of GES is to eliminate barriers to work and independence. We
accomplish this mission by providing quality programs and services tailored
to address the needs of individuals and their communities. Our services are
funded through store sales; contracts and fee for service; partnerships with
foundations, corporations and government; grants and private contributions.

GES Core Values

Relationships We believe that relationships and partnerships are
the foundation of our success. We believe we can do more together
than alone.
Communication We believe in building open and honest
relationships through communication.
Contribution We believe in making a positive contribution to our
team, organization and community.
Accountability We believe that personal accountability determines
the strength of our contributions to the community.

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 Continuous Improvement We believe in striving to achieve the
highest level of quality in all aspects of our work. We dedicate
ourselves to new and better ways to serve.
Celebration We believe in recognizing and celebrating the
contribution of others.

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Ethical Standards
All GESYB staff, leadership and volunteers are expected to act with honesty,
integrity and openness in all activities as representatives of the organization.
In addition, all staff are expected to adhere to the highest standards of
ethical and professional behavior and conduct in the provision of services by:
Treating each student in a courteous and respectful manner.
Taking into account individual differences.
Encouraging students to make choices about work that are in their best
interest.
Not imposing personal opinions or those of others.
Maintaining a non-judgmental approach.
Protecting student privacy and confidentiality.
Maintaining professional competency and seek consultation, use
referral or get additional training as needed to ensure the highest level
of quality services.
Serving the students interest while promoting employment and self-
sufficiency.
Avoiding conflicts of interest.
Maintaining personal integrity and always behaving in a professional
manner with students, referral sources, the public and other
professionals.

Student and Staff Boundaries

GESYB staff are expected to protect the welfare of students and to use their
work-related skills only for purposes consistent with their job responsibilities.
To ensure the protection of both students and staff, GESYB staff are
prohibited from having, seeking, requesting or agreeing to:
any kind of personal or non-professional relationship with a student,
including romantic or sexual relationships. Staff are prohibited from
agreeing to any student request to engage in a personal relationship
outside of the scope of services provided by the program.
a business relationship or contact with a student, beyond the scope of
services provided by GESYB. Staff are prohibited from agreeing to any
student request to engage in a business relationship outside of the
scope of services provided by the program.
any additional contact with a student outside of the scope of services
that could adversely affect the student or otherwise reflect poorly on
GESYB.

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These prohibited activities include relationships or contact through social
media. Staff who fail to comply with this policy may be subject to corrective
action, up to and including termination of employment. GESYB student, you
are expected to respect these professional boundaries and standards.

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Student Rights
As a GESYB student, you have the following rights:
Right to be treated fairly and with respect.
Right to freedom from abuse, exploitation, retaliation, humiliation,
neglect or coercion in any form.
Right to be paid for work you complete.
Right to have what is expected of you clearly stated.
Right to privacy and confidentiality of your personal information.
Right to receive a Privacy Notice describing how your personal
information is collected, used and disclosed.
Right to request and be granted access to your own records unless
specific legal requirements indicate otherwise.
Right to inform consent or refusal and expression of choice regarding
service delivery releases of information.
Right to access or referral to legal entities for appropriate
representation, self-help, support services and advocacy support
services.
Right to protection of all rights guaranteed by all county, state and
federal law.
Right to file a grievance (see Grievance Procedure) if you feel been
treated unfairly and to be granted an investigation and resolution of
any alleged infringement of rights.

Primary YouthBuild Contacts

Students are encouraged to schedule office hours with staff as needed.

Becky Brink-Ray Lucas Bohn

GESYB Director GESYB Program Manager
Phone Number: (651) 379-5635 Phone Number: (651) 645-1985 ext. 112
BBrink@goodwilleasterseals.org LBohn@goodwilleasterseals.org

Erica Fricke Anna Ebbers

GESYB Case Manager
Phone Number: (651) 645-1985
ext. 106
EFricke@goodwilleasterseals.org
George Schooley
St. Paul Adult Basic Education
Instructor
Phone Number: (952) 818-6975
George.schooley@spps.org
GESYB Construction Instructor
Phone Number: (651) 645-1985 ext. 103
AEbbers@goodwilleasterseals.org
JennaRose Dahl
Minnesota Literacy Council Distance
Learning and
Digital Literacy Coordinator
Phone Number: (612) 567-9095
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 jdahl@mnliteracy.org

Dress Code
It is the aim of GESYB to have students ready for successful employment in
the construction industry. It is required that students dress appropriately for
the construction environment in which they are training (i.e. closed-toe shoes
and clothing for a work site). Clothing must be professional and free of
offensive language or images. GESYB staff will discuss this policy in detail
during the first week of the program. If you need assistance in obtaining
appropriate clothing for this training, you should speak with GESYB Staff.

Use of Tobacco and Nicotine Products

GESYB buildings and grounds are smoke-free with the exception of
designated smoking areas. Using tobacco products and smokeless tobacco or
e-cig devices in any form is not permitted in the GESYB vans or buildings.
The staff, students and visitors who choose to use these products may do so
only in areas designated for smoking. It is the responsibility of the individual
to properly dispose of waste from these products. Smoking within twenty feet
of an entrance or exit of any structure is prohibited.

When visiting offsite locations as a class, students are required to seek out
and follow the tobacco policy of the host location.

Visitors
Visitors should be limited during training hours. If there is a need for family
or friends to visit you, it must be prearranged with GESYB staff. Should a
visitor arrive unannounced, GESYB staff will be unable to confirm your
participation or presence in accordance with the GESYB Privacy Policy. In the
event that an officer asks to speak with a student, GESYB staff will comply.

Personal Belongings and Electronics

Personal belongings and electronics such as backpacks, jackets, MP3 players,
headphones, cell phones, etc. are not allowed into any training area
including the shop, classroom, computer lab, jobsite or while on tours. They
may be accessed and used only when students are on a scheduled break.
Headphones are permitted only when used for coursework during computer
literacy. All valuable personal belongings must be left at home or stored in
silent mode in the students assigned locker during training hours. GESYB

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and other YouthBuild partner organizations are not responsible for any lost or
stolen personal items.

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Storage of Medications
GESYB does not disperse, store or administer medications. If you have any
medications needing storage while participating in GESYB they should be
stored in your locker. If your medication requires refrigeration, it is
recommended that you bring an insulated bag and a cold/freezer pack.
Students may not store medications in a GESYB refrigerator.

GESYB Worksite Property

The supplies, materials, equipment and tools used at the training and
worksite locations should be treated with respect and care. Damaging or
destroying them may result in garnishment of a students stipend, corrective
actions or termination from the program.

Recording Devices
Video and audio recording devices may be used at any time to monitor the
safety, health and welfare of all students, staff and visitors to GES property
and to safeguard the facilities. Authorized staff may review surveillance
recordings for any reason, including verifying the occurrence of disruptive,
unsafe or illegal behavior. Surveillance will be limited to areas where there is
no reasonable expectation of privacy.

Students may be allowed to photograph or record class projects with

permission from GESYB staff at the end of the day. Any photos or videos
taken by students must not contain images of other students without their
permission. Photos and recordings cannot be posted to any social media
platform without consent from any party in the image/recording.

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 PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Schedule
The GESYB program runs 30 hours per week for 20 weeks. The program
begins at 9:00 a.m. Monday Thursday and 8:30 a.m. on Fridays when
scheduled to work at a Habitat for Humanity site. Class ends each day at
3:30 p.m. Students can reference their syllabus to find planned holidays,
breaks and graduation. Students are expected to arrive at the training facility
early and be ready to begin class at the start time.

The daily schedule includes a 30 minute lunch break and two additional 15
minute breaks. Students are responsible for providing their own food.
Refrigerators and microwaves are available for student use at the training
facility. Students are responsible for monitoring break times and reporting
back to class on time.

Emergency Closings and Late Starts

In the case of severe weather conditions, classes will be canceled and the
training facility or site will be closed if Minneapolis Public Schools OR St. Paul
Public Schools are closed. GESYB will also follow Minneapolis and St. Paul
Public Schools for delayed starts. School closures and delays are announced
on WCCO radio (AM 830), minnesota.cbslocal.com/school-closings/ and major
news channels. If you do not have access to a radio, internet or television
and you suspect that training might be affected by weather, refer to the
Primary YouthBuild Contact section of this handbook and call GESYB
Staff.

Daily Activities
GESYBs objective is for each student to advance academically while working
towards becoming proficient in entry level construction skills and to be
employable upon completing the program. GESYB is comprised of three
components academic instruction, construction training and leadership
development.

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 Tuesda Wednes Thursd
Monday Friday
y day ay
9:00 -
Shop Shop
10:00 Habitat
Leadersh
Shop Compute For
10:00 - ip Computer
r Humanit
12:00 Literacy
Literacy y
12:00 -
Lunch Lunch Lunch Lunch (Arrive
12:30
at 8:30
12:30 - a.m.)
GED GED GED GED
3:30
Academic Instruction
All students will spend 50% of their time participating in academic instruction
working toward the completion of their High School Diploma or GED and
college readiness. Academic instruction is provided by St. Paul Adult Basic
Education (ABE). ABE instruction will include lessons on social studies,
science, math, language, reading and writing. During the program year
students are required to take standardized tests and will be expected to be
on time and prepared for the scheduled testing.

Construction Training
All students will spend 40% of their time participating in classroom and
hands-on construction training. Through shop training and site training with
Habitat for Humanity, students will gain hands-on construction experience.
All materials and tools needed to perform the construction related tasks will
be available as part of the construction training. All materials, supplies,
equipment, personal protective equipment (PPE) and tools must be returned
to the appropriate location each day.

Leadership Development
All students will spend 10% of their time participating in personal and
leadership development. Students will receive instruction in life skills,
employability, character and community and leadership development.

Youth Policy Committee

Students are made part of the governing core, share decision making with
the director and the staff. Students will be elected by their peers after
orientation. A new group of student leaders will be elected every two months

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during the program cycle. Students in the governing core work together to
reach decisions that all students and staff can support.

Duties may include:

providing feedback on policies and expectations
organizing fund raising events for students
bringing concerns of fellow students forward
assisting staff in organizing events such as graduation or open house

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Attendance
Students are expected to be in class each day of scheduled training and are
expected to make other appointments and commitments outside of training
hours. Students may not have the opportunity to make-up missed activities,
lessons and earned credentials.

Students who will miss class for any reason including absences, late arrivals
or early departures are expected to speak with GESYB staff IN ADVANCE.
Students must follow these procedures:
Notify staff of date, time and purpose of the expected absence; OR
Call on the day of the absence, no later than the time the student
would otherwise be expected to arrive (9:00 a.m.). If a student misses
the deadline, they are expected to call and check-in as soon as
possible. Phone numbers for GESYB staff are listed in Primary
YouthBuild Contacts.

If GESYB staff determine that attendance has become a concern, program

progression will be reviewed in a meeting with relevant staff and the student.
More than 5 absences will result in an automatic review meeting before you
will be allowed to continue. Excessive absences may result in termination
from GESYB.

Stipend Information
Students will receive a stipend during their time in the program. The stipend
is $50 ($10 per day that they are present for instruction) each week
throughout participation in GESYB. In addition to the stipend, students will
have the opportunity to earn an incentive of $5 per day (up to $25 per 5-day
week). In order to earn the daily incentive, students must be present for all
training hours. This means arriving on time, reporting back from all breaks
on time, being in class during lessons and finishing the day at the scheduled
time.

Stipends will be suspended if the student is absent for 5 consecutive training

days and will not receive a stipend for that week if programming was
available. Students will be expected to meet with GESYB staff to address
attendance before their stipend is reinstated.

If a student joins a YouthBuild cohort after mental toughness, they will not be
eligible to receive a stipend until the Monday following their first full week of

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enrollment (e.g. If a student starts on a Wednesday, they will be not be
eligible for the rest of that week and the entire following week).

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Completion Requirements
It is the expectation of GESYB that students have committed to completing
all scheduled weeks of the program. There are some exceptions in which a
student may discontinue training before the scheduled end-date and still be
considered in good standing. These exceptions include:
gaining employment
earning your GED and gaining employment
earning your GED and enrolling in a post-secondary program

If any of these exceptions apply, students are expected to notify GESYB staff
to talk about their planned exit.

Requirements after Graduation

By participating in YouthBuild, students agree to follow-up with GESYB staff
for a period of 12 months after completing the program. The follow-ups serve
to ensure the students success and to identify any needs or services that
the student may benefit from. Students in the YouthBuild program agree to
contact GESYB staff within 5 business days if any of the following occur
during the 12-month follow-up period:
Your contact information changes (address, phone numbers, e-mail
address, etc.)
You gain a credential
You earn your GED or high school equivalency
You enroll in college or a technical training program
Your employment status changes in any of the following ways:
o You become employed
o Your employment ends
o You are given additional permanent duties
o You have a permanent increase in hours
o You are promoted or have a status upgrade (with or without
wage increase)
o You gain permanent benefits increase
o You earn an unscheduled pay increase based on performance
o Your status changes from temporary employment to permanent
employment

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 SAFETY
General Safety Practices
Students will be trained on all relevant safety precautions. Students are
responsible for following these instructions and any posted safety
instructions. In addition, students will complete an (Occupational Safety and
Health Administration) OSHA 10 while participating in training.

Accident Prevention
Accident prevention is of primary importance in all phases of GESYB. It is the
intention of GESYB staff to provide safe and healthy working conditions,
which also includes establishing and insisting upon safe practices at all times
by students. If a student is unfamiliar with safety procedures or becomes
aware of a potential hazard they are expected to notify staff immediately.

Each student has certain responsibilities to ensure safety on the job. These
include:
Learning their job and following safe work procedures as instructed
Asking questions if ever unsure of proper safety procedures
Staying alert to job hazards and taking precautions to ensure the
safety of themselves and others
Actively participating and cooperating in the overall safety program of
GESYB
Using all personal protective equipment (PPE) recommended
Complying with all safety instruction from GESYB Staff
Following all health and safety standards, warnings and signs
Using supplies, materials, equipment and tools in an appropriate and
safe manner
Informing staff if any medications, including over-the-counter
medicines, could affect ability to safely perform work

Injury
Students injured on the job must notify GESYB Staff of anything that requires
treatment, even minor first aid, IMMEDIATELY! Notice of injuries must be
completed within 24 hours of occurrence.

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Accident Insurance
In the event of an onsite injury, each student is covered under GES Accident
Insurance. Student must inform GESYB Staff immediately in the occurrence
of any onsite injury or accident. Failure to report injuries may result in a loss
of Insurance Benefits. Falsification of information in reporting injuries may
result in immediate termination and criminal prosecution.

Emergency Contacts
In the case of an emergency, a students designated family member or friend
may be contacted by GESYB staff. Students are asked to provide the name,
address, email and telephone numbers for their emergency contact(s). The
emergency contact(s) should be persons whom the student would want
contacted in the event of an emergency. Please be sure that the information
on file with GESYB staff is current. If the students emergency contact
information changes it is the students responsibility to update their
information with GESYB staff.

Transportation
As needed, GESYB will transport students from the training facility to an
offsite location and back. Students will be expected to behave in a
professional manner and be respectful of all staff and students while utilizing
GESYB transportation. Students are expected to adhere to all policies and
rules described in this document when utilizing GESYB transportation in
order to ensure the safety of all passengers. In the case of an accident, an
accurate account of any factors contributing to a traffic accident will be
reported to the police officer investigating the incident.

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 BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS and CORRECTIVE ACTIONS
Attitude and Behavior
Students are expected to behave in a professional manner at all times.
Unprofessional behavior will not be tolerated and includes but is not limited
to:
Sleeping during class activities and instruction
Non-participation
Being unprepared for daily tasks and assignments
Undermining GESYB staff or students
Using excessive profanity or insulting language
Engaging in unnecessary conflict and argumentative behavior
Behaving in ways that unnecessarily increase risk

GESYB staff will identify these and other unprofessional behaviors as they
arise and bring them to the attention of the individual.

Corrective Actions
Corrective action may be taken against anyone who violates a program rule
or company policy or who violates the Attitude and Behavior expectations
listed above. If you fail to meet professional expectations, GESYB staff will
discuss the consequences. Alternative suggestions for handling the situation
may be offered. At that time, students may be subject to one or more of the
following consequences:
Verbal reminder - This is a discussion regarding improvement needed
in your performance or conduct
Written reminder or agreement Students may be asked to sign an
agreement if an area of concern has not improved
Decision-making leave This is a time-off from the program when time
off is needed to investigate a suspected a violation of a rule, or for
failure to correct inappropriate behaviors
Termination Students may be terminated from the program due to
either repeated violations or an incident that is of serious nature (e.g.
stealing, failing to report witnessed theft, misuse of company property,
use or possession of a weapon, illegal drugs or alcohol on the
premises, fighting, sexual harassment, multiple days of not calling
your instructor, abuse of a vulnerable adult)
Behaviors or actions considered to be more serious in nature (see Theft,
Possession of Weapons, Discrimination and Harassment and Illegal

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Drugs and Alcohol) may lead to immediate decision-making leave or
termination and, if necessary, may be reported to the appropriate law
enforcement agency.

Theft
Stealing the property of GESYB, staff, other students or offsite locations will
not be tolerated while participating in GESYB. Students with knowledge of
any theft are expected to report the theft to staff or to the anonymous
employee concerns line.

Possession of Weapons
Weapons are defined as things designed or used for inflicting bodily harm or
physical damage. Weapons are not permitted on any GESYB property or
partner sites. The property includes but is not limited to: the GESYB training
facility, student lockers, the parking lot and any cars parked in the lot,
Habitat jobsites, GESYB van, the surrounding property and railroad tracks
and any offsite locations visited during training hours. In addition students
are not permitted to talk about possession of weapons that may occur in
non-training hours while on GESYB property.

Discrimination and Harassment

Discrimination is defined as a prejudiced outlook, action or treatment.
Harassment is defined as any unwelcome behavior that interferes with
another persons performance or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive
learning environment. Harassment may include conduct that is verbal,
physical or visual. Sexual harassment is a form of gender discrimination that
consists of unwelcome verbal or physical interaction between two or more
people and can happen between people of the same gender or people of
different genders. Discrimination and harassment will not be tolerated while
participating in GESYB activities.

Illegal Drugs and Alcohol

GESYB maintains a drug-free and alcohol-free environment. To protect the
safety of staff and students, GESYB staff reserve the right to send students
home for the day if they suspect an individual is under the influence of drugs
or alcohol. GESYB staff are available to assist students in seeking treatment
and addiction counseling. Possession, use and sales or distribution of illegal
drugs or alcohol are not permitted on GESYB grounds or partner sites.

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Lying, Spreading False Information and Creating Rumors
Lying, spreading false information and creating rumors about GESYB, any
staff or any student will not be tolerated at GESYB. Students may be subject
to corrective action whether this takes place during training hours, after
training hours, in person or on social media platforms.

Grievance Procedure
Any student has the right to file a grievance to address complaints during
participation in GESYB. The grievance must be made in writing within 3
business days and should include the following information:
1. State the problem and outline all of the specific facts, circumstances
and issues involved
2. Provide all of the appropriate documentation to support the complaint
3. Explain why the complaint should be reviewed
4. State the specific resolution which is sought

The grievance process is as follows:

Students are encouraged to speak with staff (Instructors, Case
Manager or Program Manager) to resolve any problem that arises.
Students may also express concerns by calling the Participant
Concerns Line: (651) 379-5998. Concerns may be left anonymously.
If after talking with direct staff students feel that their concern has not
been addressed, they may contact GESYB Program Director (see
Primary YouthBuild Contacts).
If after talking with the Program Director students feel that their
concern has not been addressed, they may submit an appeal in writing
to the President and CEO of Goodwill-Easter Seals, or the Chief
Services and Programs Officer at 553 Fairview Ave. N. St. Paul, MN
55104. Students will receive a response within 14 calendar days.

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 ACTS and LEGAL RESOURCES
Minnesota Vulnerable Adults Act
Minnesota state law provides special protection to adults who are potentially
vulnerable to maltreatment and/or may be unable or unlikely to report
maltreatment due to mental, physical, or emotional status. GESYB is
required, under the Minnesota Vulnerable Adults Act, to notify you of
protections and responsibilities that you may have according to this law.

A vulnerable adult is defined as any person 18 years or older who meets one
of these conditions:

Is a resident of a facility, or receives services at or from a facility

licensed to serve adults; except a person receiving outpatient services
for treatment of chemical dependency or mental illness; unless the
person meets the requirements of clause three.
Receives services from a home care provider; or arranges for personal
care assistant services under the medical assistance program.
Regardless of residence, has a physical or mental illness or emotional
dysfunction that impairs the individuals ability to provide adequately
for the individuals own care without assistance; or has an impaired
ability to protect themselves.

Abuse against a vulnerable adult is an act that violates, attempts to violate,

or aids in a violation of the following crimes: assault, the use of drugs to
injure or facilitate crime, the solicitation, inducement, and promotion of
prostitution, criminal sexual conduct, criminal abuse, or any act that meets
the elements of the crime. Abuse can also be defined as hitting, slapping,
kicking, pinching, biting, corporal punishment, or repeated use of malicious
language or gestures towards a vulnerable adult that is considered to be
disparaging or harassing. In addition, abuse is defined as involuntary
seclusion or forced separation of the vulnerable adult from other persons
against your will. Also illegal is any sexual conduct and/or penetration
between a facility staff person or a person providing services in the facility
and a resident, patient, or client of that facility. Neglect is the failure or
omission by a caregiver to supply a vulnerable adult with care or services or
the absence of care of services, including but not limited to food, clothing,
shelter, health care or supervision which is reasonable and necessary to
obtain or maintain the vulnerable adults physical or mental health or safety.

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Financial exploitation of a vulnerable adult is illegal, including: engaging in
unauthorized expenditure of funds entrusted to the actor by the vulnerable
adult; failing to use the financial resources of the vulnerable adult to provide
food or clothing; willfully using, withholding, or disposing of funds or property
of a vulnerable adult; obtaining services, acquiring possession or control of,
or an interest in, funds or property of a vulnerable adult, forcing, compelling,
coercing, or enticing a vulnerable adult against the vulnerable adults will to
perform services for the profit or advantage of another.

All employees of GESYB who serve participants are required to report any
suspected maltreatment of a vulnerable adult to the Minnesota Adult Abuse
Reporting Center. Mandated reporters who fail to report suspected
maltreatment or evidence of abuse are guilty of a gross misdemeanor and
may be liable for damages caused by failure to report. If a report of
suspected maltreatment is made in good faith, an individual cannot be
reprimanded, held liable, or punished in any manner unless a false report
was intentionally filed. All GES employees are trained at the start of
employment on the policies and responsibilities related to the reporting of
maltreatment of vulnerable adults.

When GESYB has reason to know that a report of alleged maltreatment has
been made, an internal review will be completed and corrective action taken
to protect the health and safety of the participants involved.

Maltreatment of Minors Act

The Minnesota Maltreatment of Minors Act establishes a system for reporting
possible child abuse and neglect to government agencies that provide
protective services for the child or conduct criminal investigations. All GES
staff are required to report child abuse or neglect. Mandated reporters who
fail to report child maltreatment are guilty of a misdemeanor. Any staff
member making such a report in good faith will not be retaliated against. All
GES employees are trained at the start of employment on the policies and
responsibilities related to the reporting of child maltreatment.

When there is reason to believe that a child has been neglected (including a
pregnant womans use of a controlled substance for a non-medical purpose),
and/or abused, as defined by statute, staff will immediately make an oral
report to Child Protection Intake. Immediately means as soon as possible but
no longer than 24 hours after knowledge of the incident is received. When
there is reason to believe that a child has been threatened with sexual abuse
or injury, as defined by statute, staff members will immediately make an oral

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report to the county or reservation where the child lives
(http://mn.gov/dhs/people-we-serve/children-and-families/services/child-
protection/contact-us/index.jsp). For children in immediate danger, staff will
call 911. When GES has reason to know that a report of alleged
maltreatment has been made, an internal review will be completed and
corrective action taken to protect the health and safety of the children
involved.

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Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Laws
(from http://www.eeoc.gov/laws/statutes/index.cfm)

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII)

This law makes it illegal to discriminate against someone on the basis of
race, color, religion, national origin, or sex. The law also makes it illegal to
retaliate against a person because the person complained about
discrimination, filed a charge of discrimination, or participated in an
employment discrimination investigation or lawsuit. The law also requires
that employers reasonably accommodate applicants' and employees'
sincerely held religious practices, unless doing so would impose an undue
hardship on the operation of the employer's business.
The Pregnancy Discrimination Act
This law amended Title VII to make it illegal to discriminate against a
woman because of pregnancy, childbirth, or a medical condition related to
pregnancy or childbirth. The law also makes it illegal to retaliate against a
person because the person complained about discrimination, filed a
charge of discrimination, or participated in an employment discrimination
investigation or lawsuit.
The Equal Pay Act of 1963 (EPA)
This law makes it illegal to pay different wages to men and women if you
perform equal work in the same workplace. The law also makes it illegal
to retaliate against a person because the person complained about
discrimination, filed a charge of discrimination, or participated in an
employment discrimination investigation or lawsuit.
The Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 (ADEA)
This law protects people who are 40 or older from discrimination because
of age. The law also makes it illegal to retaliate against a person because
the person complained about discrimination, filed a charge of
discrimination, or participated in an employment discrimination
investigation or lawsuit.

26
Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA)
This law makes it illegal to discriminate against a qualified person with a
disability in the private sector and in state and local governments. The
law also makes it illegal to retaliate against a person because the person
complained about discrimination, filed a charge of discrimination, or
participated in an employment discrimination investigation or lawsuit. The
law also requires that employers reasonably accommodate the known
physical or mental limitations of an otherwise qualified individual with a
disability who is an applicant or employee, unless doing so would impose
an undue hardship on the operation of the employer's business.
Sections 102 and 103 of the Civil Rights Act of 1991
Among other things, this law amends Title VII and the ADA to permit jury
trials and compensatory and punitive damage awards in intentional
discrimination cases.
Sections 501 and 505 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
This law makes it illegal to discriminate against a qualified person with a
disability in the federal government. The law also makes it illegal to
retaliate against a person because the person complained about
discrimination, filed a charge of discrimination, or participated in an
employment discrimination investigation or lawsuit. The law also requires
that employers reasonably accommodate the known physical or mental
limitations of an otherwise qualified individual with a disability who is an
applicant or employee, unless doing so would impose an undue hardship
on the operation of the employer's business.
The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008 (GINA)
This law makes it illegal to discriminate against employees or applicants
because of genetic information. Genetic information includes information
about an individual's genetic tests and the genetic tests of an individual's
family members, as well as information about any disease, disorder or
condition of an individual's family members (i.e. an individual's family
medical history). The law also makes it illegal to retaliate against a person
because the person complained about discrimination, filed a charge of
discrimination, or participated in an employment discrimination
investigation or lawsuit.

27
Community Assistance Agencies
Community Assistance Address / Website Phone #/Email
Agency
Office of the Ombudsman 121 7th Place E, Suite
for Mental Health and 420
Developmental Metro Square Building
Disabilities St. Paul, MN 55101
Minnesota Disability Law 430 1st Ave N, Suite 300 mndlc@mylegalaid.org
Center Minneapolis, MN 55401
Website:
http://www.mndlc.org/
ADA Minnesota www.adaminnesota.org Metro: 651-603-2015 (Voice)
Toll Free: (888) 630-9793
A resource providing 651-603-2001 (TTY)
Minnesota citizens with
disabilities, businesses,
communities, government,
universities and colleges
assistance in implementing
the ADA.
Americans with ADA.complaint@usdoj.g 800-514-0301 (voice)
Disabilities Act (ADA) ov. 800-514-0383 (TTY)
website http://www.ada.gov/fact
_on_
Provides information and complaint.htm
technical assistance on the
Americans with Disabilities
Act.
Client Assistance Project http://mylegalaid.org/ab Metro: 612-334-5970 (Voice)
(CAP) out/ 612-332-4668 (TTY)
our-work/disability-law/ 1-800-292-4150 (Greater MN)
Advocates for people with
disabilities who are having
problems with state
agencies funded under the
Rehabilitation Act.

28
Community Assistance
Agency
Central MN Legal
Services
Provides civil legal services
to low-income persons.
Southern Minnesota
Regional Legal Services
Provides civil legal
services to low income
persons and eligible
client groups.
Minnesota Ombudsman
An Ombudsman is an official
who is designated to assist
you to overcome the delay,
injustice or impersonal
delivery of services.
Address / Website Phone #/Email
www.centralmnlegal.org Minneapolis Office: 612-334-
5970 (includes: Hennepin &
Anoka Counties)
St. Cloud Office: 1-800-622-7773
(includes: Benton, Chisago,
Isanti, Mille Lacs, Morrison,
Sherburne, Stearns, Todd, Wright
counties)
Willmar Office: 1-800-622-4011
(includes: Big Stone, Chippewa,
Kandiyohi, Lac Qui Parle,
Lincoln, Lyon, Meeker, Renville,
Swift, Yellow Medicine counties)
www.smrls.org Metro: 651-222-4731
(Ramsey, Washington,
Dakota, Carver and Scott
Counties)
Greater MN: 1-888-575-2954
or 1-507-377-7401
(includes: Blue Earth, Brown,
Cottonwood, Dodge, Faribault,
Fillmore, Freeborn, Goodhue,
Houston, Jackson, Le Sueur,
Martin, McLeod, Mower, Murray,
Nicollet, Nobles, Olmsted,
Pipestone, Redwood, Rice, Rock,
Sibley, Steele, Wabasha,
Waseca, Watonwan, and Winona
Counties)
www.ombudmhdd.state. Metro: 651-757-1800
mn.us/ Greater MN: 1-800-657-3506 or
contact MN Relay Service 711
Email:
ombudsman.mhdd@state.mn.us
29
Community Assistance Address / Website Phone #/Email
Agency
U.S. Equal Employment www.eeoc.gov Minneapolis Area Office: 1-800-
Opportunity Commission 669-4000 (voice) 1-800-669-
(EEOC) 6820 (TTY)
Towle Building, 330 South
The EEOC is responsible for Second Avenue Suite 720,
enforcing federal laws that Minneapolis, MN 55401-2224
make it illegal to
discriminate against a job
applicant or an employee
because of the person's
race, color, religion, sex
(including pregnancy),
national origin, age (40 or
older), disability or genetic
information. See EEOC laws,
below.
U.S. Department of Labor www.wagehour.dol.gov 1-866-487-9243 (voice)
- Wage and Hour Division 1-877-889-5627 (TTY)
(WHD) Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Eastern Time
Responsible for
administering and enforcing
many worker protection
laws. Call to be directed to
the nearest WHD office for
assistance.

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