Oklahoma City – The U.S. Department of Labor has filed a federal complaint against Not Your Average Joe, a local nonprofit that hires people of all abilities. The lawsuit alleges that the organization did not fully pay wages, tips and overtime owed to a number of its staff.
Allegations detail wage and tip issues
The complaint says some employees were treated as volunteers for certain work hours, that break times were recorded as unpaid, and that records of hours and tips were sometimes inaccurate. It also claims payments were delayed for months, though the nonprofit’s founder, Tim Herbel, disputes that claim, saying most payments were made within a week or two.
Nonprofit’s response
Herbel told KOCO 5 that the organization is working toward a settlement and has already taken steps to improve its payroll processes. “Our tips were always distributed,” he said, acknowledging occasional delays and promising to correct any errors. The nonprofit has moved from cash tip distribution to checks and hired consultants to review its payroll system.
Concerns about minor workers
The Department of Labor also raised concerns that minors were operating industrial dough mixers and working more hours than allowed on school days. Herbel defended the practice, stating, “We’re obviously not taking advantage of those with special needs, especially otherwise their families wouldn’t have them here.” He emphasized the organization’s mission to provide meaningful employment for people with disabilities.
Potential back wages for hundreds of employees
The federal complaint lists roughly 320 employees who may be entitled to back wages, overtime or tip reimbursements. KOCO 5 reached out to the Labor Department’s attorney for comment but has not received a response.
Impact on the community
Not Your Average Joe has long been praised for its inclusive hiring model, offering jobs to individuals with and without disabilities. The lawsuit brings scrutiny to how well the nonprofit balances its mission with compliance to labor laws. Local advocates for workers’ rights say the case underscores the importance of fair pay, while supporters of the organization stress its role in providing opportunities that might otherwise be unavailable.
As the case moves forward, the nonprofit says it will continue to cooperate with investigators and adjust its practices to ensure all employees receive the compensation they are legally owed.
Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
