Determining appropriate compensation is often one of the most challenging and most impactful components of a new organization, project, or board; and while these guidelines apply to everyone in every role, they are particularly difficult when trying to involve people with lived experience.

Practices regarding compensation for people with lived experience vary widely: some communities classify people as employees and issue W-2 forms, while others engage them as consultants with established rates, or provide stipends for advisory roles. It is important to note, however, that many lived experience members do not meet the legal definition of independent contractors, making it critical to consider appropriate and legally compliant worker classifications for all positions.

The flowchart below was created to provide some initial guidance, but each hiring agency must determine what approach best aligns with their goals, local context, and legal requirements. Consulting legal counsel and reviewing local, state, and federal regulations is strongly encouraged, because even the most well-intentioned compensation practices can expose people to financial or legal risk if not structured appropriately.

The YAB Milestone Guide & Marker Tool is a resource developed to support communities in the development of a Youth Action Board (YAB) that is sustainable, supportive, and effective. The tool allows communities to keep track of their progress towards reaching crucial milestones, and guides communities towards reaching their goals. YABs consist of youth and young adults who have experienced homelessness and housing instability, their purpose is to create opportunities for young people to participate in the shaping of programs and policies in their local communities, and to support the development of youth leadership. 

It is with the upmost excitement that I am sharing today the official launch of Rind and Reason Consulting, LLC. Let me tell you a story about how we got here.