A Statement from our Board
The Spokesman-Review published an article regarding SIMBA's role as a fiscal sponsor and federal contract manager for a grant involving the Silver Valley Community Resource Center. The SIMBA Board is appalled that the published article did not reflect the information, documentation, and timeline provided by SIMBA during the reporting process. SIMBA's Board President, Juan Mas served as the Board's designated spokesperson and made himself available to reporter Tom Clouse to answer questions and provide relevant background, documentation, and the chronology of events. Unfortunately, the reporter focused on a biased, personal attack regarding matters from our Executive Director’s past.
SIMBA recommended that Mr. Clouse speak directly with Dr. Denise Middlebrook, the Contract Compliance Manager hired by SIMBA, responsible for overseeing compliance with the grant, whose firsthand knowledge would have provided important context regarding SIMBA's contractual responsibilities and Silver Valley’s work. To our knowledge, Dr. Middlebrook was not contacted prior to or after publication. Despite the information made available, the published article focused extensively on matters unrelated to SIMBA's role as fiscal sponsor and federal contract manager, while omitting important facts and context that the Board believes are essential to a fair understanding of the events. Of the $250,000.00 contract with Philanthropy Northwest, SIMBA received just over $1200 (in total) for more than six months of work. At all times, the grant and its funds were held by Philanthropy Northwest. All funds not distributed under the grant are in Philanthropy Northwest’s possession and control.
We understand that today's article may raise questions within our community, and we appreciate the public's interest in how SIMBA fulfills its responsibilities. The Board of Directors recognizes that public trust is earned through strong governance, sound fiduciary oversight, and responsible stewardship. We take those responsibilities seriously and remain committed to serving the communities and small businesses that rely on SIMBA's programs and services.
Robin Haynes was hired in 2023 as SIMBA’s Executive Director and has exceeded our performance expectations. Her leadership and dedication have strengthened SIMBA’s role in the regional community. The Board is also proud that SIMBA successfully completed a rigorous federal audit in 2024, reflecting the organization's commitment to sound financial management, compliance, and responsible stewardship of public and private resources at all times.
We recognize that this situation has been difficult for those involved, and we appreciate the important work being undertaken by the Silver Valley Community Resource Center. At the same time, the Board is confident that SIMBA, its Executive Director, and its staff have carried out their responsibilities in good faith and in accordance with their fiduciary and governance obligations.
Because aspects of this matter involve confidential communications, contractual relationships, and responsibilities owed to multiple parties, it would not be appropriate for the Board to comment publicly on specific details. However, we want our stakeholders to know that the Board remains actively engaged in providing oversight and ensuring that SIMBA continues to operate with integrity, sound governance, and responsible stewardship.
The Board remains confident in SIMBA's mission and in the dedicated work being carried out every day on behalf of entrepreneurs, small businesses, and community partners throughout our region. We value the high-quality leadership of our Executive Director, Robin Haynes, and our experienced and dedicated staff. We remain committed to transparency, accountability, and thoughtful oversight as we continue to fulfill our responsibilities with diligence and care.
We appreciate the community's interest and remain committed to leading with integrity, preserving the trust placed in SIMBA by our partners, funders, and the communities we serve, and advancing our mission with professionalism and responsible stewardship.
With appreciation,
SIMBA Board of Directors and Board President Juan Mas
