Fact Checking Policy

1. Commitment to Accuracy

At Project Understanding, we are committed to ensuring that all information published on our website, in our communications, and across our digital platforms is accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

Because our community relies on us for essential resources—including food assistance, housing support, tutoring programs, and guidance navigating Social Security, IRS concerns, and government policies—we take the responsibility of fact-checking seriously.

Our commitment to accuracy reflects our values of integrity, transparency, and service to our community.

2. Scope of This Policy

This Fact Checking Policy applies to all content created, published, or shared by Project Understanding, including:

  • Website articles and program descriptions
  • Blogs and educational materials
  • Donor communications and fundraising messages
  • Social media posts
  • Printed materials and brochures
  • Press releases and community updates

Whether informational or promotional, all content is reviewed for accuracy before publication.

3. Sources of Information

To ensure accuracy, we use trusted, authoritative, and up-to-date sources, including but not limited to:

Internal Sources

  • Program directors and staff
  • Official documents and reports
  • Internal program data and statistics

External Sources

  • Government agencies (e.g., Social Security Administration, IRS, HUD)
  • Peer-reviewed studies
  • Reputable nonprofits and community organizations
  • Verified public data and reports
  • Subject-matter experts

We do not rely on unofficial blogs, opinion sites, unverified social media posts, or sources that lack established credibility.

4. Fact Checking Process

Project Understanding follows a structured internal process to ensure all content meets our standards:

Step 1: Research

Writers gather information from verified sources, cross-checking facts, statistics, and terminology.

Step 2: Verification

Information is reviewed for:

  • Accuracy
  • Consistency with current program guidelines
  • Compliance with state and federal regulations
  • Alignment with organizational values

Step 3: Review by Subject Experts

Content relating to specialized topics—such as Social Security, IRS matters, or government policy—may be reviewed by staff or external partners knowledgeable in that area.

Step 4: Leadership Approval

Final review is completed by designated editors, managers, or program directors before publication.

Step 5: Ongoing Monitoring

We regularly update content to reflect:

  • New legislation
  • Program changes
  • Updated statistics
  • Community needs
  • Internal policy updates

5. Handling Corrections and Updates

Project Understanding is committed to transparency when errors occur.

If an Error Is Identified:

  • The content will be corrected as soon as possible.
  • Significant updates may be noted in an editorial update or revision note.
  • Outdated or incorrect information may be removed or replaced entirely.

Users may report suspected errors via our contact page, and we encourage community involvement in maintaining accuracy.

6. Neutrality and Non-Political Positioning

Project Understanding maintains a nonpartisan stance.
Any content involving government policy, legislation, or public benefits is presented:

  • Factually
  • Without political bias
  • For informational purposes only

We do not endorse political parties, candidates, or campaigns.
Our goal is to ensure the community receives clear, factual guidance on navigating complex systems—not political persuasion.

7. Limitations of Information Provided

While we strive for accuracy, our content does not replace professional advice.
This includes:

  • Legal advice
  • Financial or tax advice
  • Social Security advocacy
  • Medical or mental health expertise

We provide general guidance and resources but always encourage individuals to consult qualified professionals when necessary.

8. Transparency About Data and Stories

Any statistics, impact metrics, or program results published by Project Understanding will be:

  • Clearly sourced
  • Accurate at the time of publication
  • Based on available internal data or verified external reports

Personal stories or testimonials will only be published with consent and will never be altered in a way that misrepresents facts or experiences.

9. Use of AI, Automation, or External Tools

If artificial intelligence or automated tools assist in drafting content, final review is always conducted by human editors to verify:

  • Accuracy
  • Context
  • Tone
  • Ethical alignment

Under no circumstances will unverified AI-generated information be published without review.

10. Continuous Commitment to Improvement

Fact-checking methods and standards may evolve.
Project Understanding continuously reviews and updates this policy to ensure it reflects:

  • Best practices in nonprofit communication
  • Changes in program operation
  • Updates in government regulations
  • Advancements in digital communication

We remain committed to maintaining the highest level of trust with our community, donors, volunteers, and partners.