This week, City officials have revealed troubling new details in an ongoing lawsuit against Gwendolyn Westbrook, the CEO of the non-profit United Council of Human Services (UCHS). The complaint accuses Westbrook of misusing tens of millions in city and federal grants over the last two decades to support her alleged extravagant lifestyle. City officials allege that UCHS failed to properly document how it used its funds. Tax forms filed with the IRS showed $2.1 million spent on “other” expenses that had not been detailed as required by law – raising “huge red flags” among experts according to The Standard newspaper. The complaint also alleges that Westbrook used organization money for personal purchases such as cars, jewelry from one board director’s store and family members’ weddings. Noel Robinson, who is identified as a plaintiff in court filings, claims he was suspended then fired after raising concerns about alleged drug consumption and sex work involving a relative hired by Westbrook.
However, Bayview Hunters Point Foundation recently came to an agreement with Robinson and rehired him despite false rumors being spread about his involvement in illegal activities himself – Shawn Richard Deputy Director for UCHS issued a statement confirming this decision. These allegations raise serious questions about the misuse of city and federal grant money by nonprofit organizations – as well as accountability within these organizations themselves. Questions remain concerning what measures are taken by local authorities to ensure that funds are directed towards their intended use rather than individual benefit and whether or not there are sufficient checks on the behaviors of those responsible for leading them. As more details emerge from this lawsuit against Gwendolyn Westbrook and UCHS, they will no doubt shine a light on these issues – forcing us all to take a closer look at the systems currently in place and consider ways in which they may be improved upon going forward.
In the wake of these concerning revelations, San Francisco Mayor London Breed has issued a statement condemning the actions of Westbrook and those at UCHS who failed to disclose the truth about their operations. The mayor has also ordered an audit of all nonprofit organizations that receive city funding – emphasizing that funds should be used to support those in need and not personal gain. It is unclear at this time what actions will be taken by the City of San Francisco to address the issues with UCHS, but more details are sure to emerge as the case progresses. The story of Westbrook and UCHS should serve as a reminder that those in positions of power have a duty to use their resources responsibly and ethically – not to line their own pockets.
