Brevard Drop-In Center, Inc.

Appeal Policy

June 3, 2009

All members and visitors are to read and sign the Code of Conduct on their first visit to the Center.  Members who are unwilling or unable to follow the code of conduct are subject to denial or exclusion from services for a period of time to be determined by the Executive Director.  This policy is meant to keep the Drop-in Center calm and safe for our members, who are often very vulnerable, and to help the member “cool off” de-stress, get help, and do what needs to be done so that the member is able to follow the code of conduct, not as punishment.  If the member is not able to demonstrate that he or she can follow the code of conduct in a reasonable amount of time, the Director may consider rescinding membership indefinitely.

            You have the right to appeal denial or exclusion from services or membership. This appeal will be considered and decided by the Center’s Board of Directors.  This policy is not to be used to overrule or evade staff supervision.

            To appeal your exclusion from services or membership, complete the appeal form, available by calling the Center or at the Center’s website at www.brevard-drop-in-center.org.  Fill it out completely, including the date.  Return the form to: Chair, Board of Directors, Brevard Drop-in Center, C/o United Way, 937 Dixon Blvd., Cocoa, FL 32922. 

As part of the appeals process, you can request to appear before the Board of Directors. Normally this would occur at their next regularly scheduled meeting. Upon your request, the Board will meet in executive session, that is, without others present. You may not appear before the Board if it has been alleged that you have been violent, but you still have the right to send a letter, which will be read and considered by the Board.

Normally you will receive a written response to your appeal within 30 days of the receipt of your appeal form or, if you request to meet with the Board, within 30 days of your appearance before the Board. The Board’s decision is final and no further appeals will be considered.