Opportunities for All Audit Report
Questions & Answers
Was JCYC financially irresponsible?
1
No. The audit identified areas in which JCYC’s systems and documentation must improve, and JCYC accepts that. It also found that the program operated under unclear city direction and fragmented oversight. JCYC is addressing its responsibilities while asking that the full context be accurately reported.
Did JCYC pay people without proof that they worked?
2
No. During the pandemic a mutual decision was made by DCYF, HRC and JCYC to engage youth participants in projects that were exclusively training and learning experiences. Participants were not employees, they were provided stipends instead of wages, and tracked for attendance by HRC staff. JCYC processed payments based on information and payment instructions provided through documents prepared by HRC.
No. The audit raises concerns regarding documentation, controls and program management. The audit does not conclude that JCYC misused funds. JCYC is strengthening its systems to ensure that every expense is supported by clearer and more readily available documentation
3
Did JCYC misuse public money?
Are any of the practices questioned in the audit report still in place?
4
No. The audit covered the OFA contract from 2019 to 2024. The findings related to stipends payments were issued under the extreme conditions of the pandemic and by 2023 the program converted back to providing hourly wages. All other practices have either been addressed or are in the process of being corrected.
Why were invoices submitted late?
5
The program’s funding and participant levels changed repeatedly, often at the direction of the Human Rights Commission. JCYC acknowledges that invoicing should have been more timely and is implementing monthly closing, reconciliation and billing procedures.
Why should the city continue working with JCYC?
6
JCYC has more than 40 years of experience serving San Francisco youth and operating workforce programs. It has acknowledged the audit recommendations, retained outside financial expertise and committed substantial resources to modernizing its systems and controls.
Why did you hire Sheryl Davis’ sister for this project?
7
JCYC did not pay Sheryl Davis. The organization learned after Sheryl Davis resigned from the Human Rights Commission that the individual in question was related to her. The role was paid with private funds, not City contract dollars; JCYC had no knowledge of this undisclosed relationship between Sheryl Davis, the head of the HRC., and her sister.
The organization’s priority is to learn from the audit, implement lasting reforms and continue providing meaningful employment and training opportunities for San Francisco youth. The organization will work cooperatively with city agencies to create clearer responsibilities, stronger oversight and greater accountability.