A Shockwave Hits Habitat for Humanity Yellowknife: Volunteer Sues for Harassment

A disturbing legal battle has cast a shadow over Habitat for Humanity Yellowknife, as a dedicated long-time volunteer and former board member, Sue Qitualik, has launched a significant lawsuit against the charitable organization. Qitualik alleges a pervasive culture of workplace harassment, bullying, and ultimately, severe psychological harm during her time contributing to the non-profit.

In a statement of claim filed with the N.W.T.

Supreme Court, Qitualik describes an environment where she felt systematically "gaslighted" and "abused," leading to profound distress and a forced departure from an organization she deeply cared for. Her involvement with Habitat for Humanity Yellowknife spanned years, initially as a volunteer and later serving on its board, driven by a passion to help address housing needs in her community.

The lawsuit paints a stark picture of her experience, detailing incidents where her contributions were allegedly undermined, her concerns dismissed, and her professional integrity questioned by other board members and the executive director.

Central to Qitualik's allegations are claims of being sidelined and targeted after raising what she perceived as serious governance issues and questionable financial practices within the organization.

One particular point of contention mentioned in her claim relates to the decision to demolish a home intended for a Habitat project, rather than renovating it – a move she viewed as an irresponsible use of donor funds and volunteer efforts. She asserts that her attempts to address these concerns were met with hostility and isolation, culminating in an atmosphere that became unbearable.

The lawsuit seeks substantial financial compensation, including lost wages, damages for pain and suffering, and the costs associated with psychological counselling required to cope with the alleged trauma.

Qitualik's legal action not only seeks personal redress but also aims to bring to light what she describes as systemic issues within the organization's leadership and its treatment of volunteers, who are the lifeblood of any non-profit.

In response to these grave accusations, Habitat for Humanity Yellowknife has vehemently denied all allegations in its statement of defence.

The organization asserts that its actions and decisions were "appropriate and reasonable" at all times, undertaken in the best interests of Habitat for Humanity Yellowknife and its mission. Citing the sensitive nature of ongoing litigation and personnel matters, the organization has refrained from offering further public comment on the specifics of the case.

However, their legal filing maintains that Qitualik's claims are unfounded and that they acted with due diligence and integrity.

This high-profile legal battle has sent ripples through the Yellowknife community and the broader non-profit sector, sparking discussions about the rights and protections of volunteers and the accountability of charitable organizations.

It underscores the critical importance of fostering healthy and respectful environments within non-profits, where individuals dedicated to a cause can contribute without fear of harassment or mistreatment. As the case proceeds through the N.W.T. Supreme Court, it stands as a poignant reminder of the complexities and challenges inherent in managing charitable endeavors, even those with the noblest of goals.