Quality Services for the Autism Community (QSAC), a renowned organization dedicated to supporting individuals with autism, is under intense scrutiny following serious allegations of sexual harassment and organizational misconduct. The recent developments have brought to light concerns about the organization’s handling of such issues, overshadowing its commendable charitable work.
The Lawsuit and Allegations
In May 2024, a sexual harassment lawsuit was filed against QSAC with the New York State Division of Human Rights. The lawsuit has unveiled allegations that suggest the organization was aware of the misconduct but failed to take appropriate action. According to the filed complaint, the allegations have been kept under wraps for months, raising questions about the organization’s internal processes.
Assistant Coordinator Tameeka Hargett is at the center of these allegations. Accused of harassing a male staff member, Ms. Hargett was transferred to another location instead of facing immediate disciplinary action. This move has been criticized as an attempt to manage the situation discreetly rather than addressing it head-on. Ms. Hargett continued her role at the new site until her termination in May.
Involvement of Key Personnel
The allegations have implicated other key figures within QSAC’s Day Hab program. Program Coordinator Olivier Degand, who directly supervised Ms. Hargett, allegedly ignored her inappropriate behavior, allowing it to continue unchecked. Additionally, Supervisor Bobby Reid, who has a history of abuse allegations, reportedly assisted Ms. Hargett in circumventing communication blocks set by the male staff member she harassed. Both Mr. Degand and Mr. Reid failed to maintain a safe work environment.
Employees Concerns and Organizational Culture
Complaints of workplace harassment at QSAC are not new. Former employees have shared their experiences on various platforms, including Yelp, painting a troubling picture of the organizational culture. One notable incident involved the dismissal of the president/CCO’s nephew for sexual harassment, a matter that was kept confidential within the organization. These accounts highlight a pattern of inadequate responses to serious allegations.
Moving Forward
A safe and respectful workplace is essential for any organization. QSAC must address these allegations transparently and take decisive action to prevent future incidents. Employees should never feel unsafe or uncomfortable in their work environment. It is crucial for QSAC to prioritize the well-being of its staff and ensure the highest standards of professional conduct are upheld.
