WSU Extension cannot provide significant assistance to any organization that illegally discriminates. Extension has an obligation to inform organizations about this policy of non-discrimination. County Extension staff must have documentation on file about groups or organizations to whom they provide significant assistance, certifying that discriminatory practices are not followed. 4-H clubs are included in this requirement.

All Extension (including volunteers) are required to obtain assurance of civil rights compliance BEFORE providing service to any group. This requirement is as binding for a limited or periodic provision of service as it is for a sustained relationship.

To any group which cannot or will not provide assurance of compliance we may only:

• Provide a presentation which describes Extension programs including an articulation of the requirement for compliance.
• Be present to receive acknowledgment or contributions.
  

There are several ways to document that an organization is in compliance:

1. Obtain a copy of the organization's by-laws which include the nondiscrimination statement. This document should be confirmed every 3-5 years.
   
   
2. Obtain a signed statement from an officer of the group attesting to the non-discriminatory policies and practices of the group. When new officers are elected, a new letter should be obtained.
   
   
3. Confirm in writing any oral assurances given by the group contact. Periodic recertification is necessary. (See Sample Confirmation Letters.)
   
   
4. Obtain a membership list which includes known minorities or identifies protected group status.
   

Extension may no longer provide services to organizations if there is clear evidence that groups are discriminating, despite their by-laws or letters of compliance.