Dear Donors & Constituents,
I am writing to you today to provide an update on the current situation at HeadQuarters Kansas (HQKansas) and to reinforce our commitment to transparency, accountability, and the vital mission we serve in our community.
Recently, our Board of Directors discovered financial issues that required immediate action to protect the integrity and sustainability of our organization. From June 2021 through June 2023, a minimum of $206,000 in funds may not have been used in compliance with grant guidelines. Additionally, in January 2024, HQKansas submitted a grant reimbursement to the state which included $225,269 in funds that were not allowable reimbursements.
Upon discovering these issues, the board promptly notified our funding partners and initiated a thorough inquiry. While we do not believe anything criminal occurred, we took decisive action to address the situation, including making necessary personnel changes and revising our financial policies. We are now working actively with the state to develop and implement a plan that will demonstrate our organizational stability and capacity to continue providing essential services to all Kansans.
As part of this process, HQKansas will undergo re-audits for the years 2021, 2022, and 2023, which are anticipated to begin in May 2024. We are committed to operating with complete transparency and will provide updates as we work to resolve these financial challenges. Please be assured that we will continue to keep you informed as more information becomes available.
Throughout this difficult time, our focus remains on the critical work of supporting our community and ensuring that those in need have access to the vital services provided by HQKansas. We want to emphasize that all our resources and services remain available to those who need them. Our entire team is dedicated to building a bright future for HeadQuarters Kansas, the staff, donors, constituents, and the State of Kansas
Your support is more important than ever as we navigate this challenging period. We are deeply grateful for the trust, understanding, and continued support of our donors. Your partnership is invaluable as we work to strengthen our organization and continue making a positive impact in the lives of those we serve. If you have any questions or would like further information, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly. We understand that this situation may raise concerns, and we are committed to addressing them openly and honestly.
Thank you again for your understanding and unwavering support. Together, we will emerge from this challenging time as a stronger, more resilient organization, better equipped to serve our community and advance our mission.
Sincerely,
Ruby Johnson
Interim Executive Director – HeadQuarters Kansas