Standards & Transparency
Whittier Informed is committed to clear, accurate, and independent reporting that helps people understand what's happening in Whittier and why it matters.
This page explains how we make editorial decisions, how we handle mistakes, and how we remain accountable to the community.
Editorial Independence
Whittier Informed makes its own editorial decisions.
Our coverage, story selection, headlines, and publishing decisions are not controlled or influenced by advertisers, sponsors, donors, or outside organizations.
We may receive funding through sponsorships, grants, or community support. That support helps sustain our work, but it does not give any individual or organization the ability to review, approve, or direct our reporting.
We are independent and nonpartisan, with no affiliation with government, political groups, or outside organizations that influence our coverage.
How We Report
All stories published by Whittier Informed are either originally reported or clearly attributed to their source. Original reporting is the core of our coverage. When we reference reporting from other outlets, we credit and link to the original source.
Our reporting is based on:
- Public records and official documents
- Direct statements from public officials and institutions
- Verifiable, attributable sources
When information is written in technical or government language, we translate it into clear terms. When decisions connect to earlier ones, we explain how.
Our reporting is fact-based, and we present information clearly and in context so readers can draw their own conclusions.
Use of AI Tools
We may use AI tools to assist with tasks like translation, research organization, or editing support. AI tools are not used to independently publish reporting or verify facts. All published content is reviewed, edited, and verified by a human editor before publication.
Accuracy and Corrections
Accuracy matters. If we publish something incorrect, we correct it as quickly as possible and update the article clearly so readers understand what changed.
If you believe something is inaccurate or unclear, email editor@whittierinformed.com with a link to the story, what you believe is incorrect, and any supporting information.
We review all correction requests carefully and correct errors when necessary.
Ethics and Conflict of Interest Policy
We maintain a conflict of interest policy that applies to all reporting and editorial decisions.
We avoid covering issues where personal, financial, or professional relationships could affect reporting. When a conflict is relevant, we disclose it or step back from coverage.
We do not accept gifts, payments, or favors that could influence editorial decisions.
All reporting is expected to be honest, fair, and verified before publication.
We follow the Society of Professional Journalists Code of Ethics as a guiding framework for our reporting and editorial decisions.
Funding and Transparency
Whittier Informed is supported through local sponsorships and advertising, grants, and community support.
Supporters do not influence editorial decisions. If a funding relationship is directly connected to a story, project, or coverage area, we will disclose it clearly.
Any sponsored or promotional content is labeled so readers can easily distinguish it from editorial reporting.
Whittier Informed is an independent LLC and operates under fiscal sponsorship through Tiny News Collective, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. This arrangement allows us to receive grant funding and tax-deductible donations while maintaining full editorial independence.
Community Commitment
Whittier Informed exists to serve the people who live, work, and spend time in Whittier.
We focus on issues that affect daily life, clear explanations of public decisions, and making information accessible and usable.
We welcome feedback, questions, and story ideas from the community. Email tips@whittierinformed.com with any tips.
