Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Our Vision

At BBBSCNNJ, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) form the bedrock of our values and mission. We wholeheartedly acknowledge, affirm, and celebrate the diverse backgrounds, lives, and experiences of all stakeholders, spanning youth, families, donors, volunteers, and staff.

DEI Statement

Within our workplace, we nurture an environment that embraces all individuals. We firmly assert that every person, regardless of ability, age, cultural background, ethnicity, faith, gender, gender identity, gender expression, ideology, income, national origin, race, sexual orientation, or marital and veteran status, deserves an equal opportunity to realize their full potential.

Our commitment is to unlock the inherent potential within each of us by ensuring that all voices and perspectives are not only heard but also honored.

Dedication to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

In 2021, our agency took a significant step in formalizing our DEI commitment by inaugurating a dedicated Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Steering Committee. Comprising staff, board members, volunteers, and community stakeholders, this committee collaborates to drive DEI initiatives throughout the organization. By adhering to best practices, the committee ensures that DEI remains a guiding principle in every facet of our work.

respect
empowerment
Reflection
Creativity
accountability

Diversity Equity Inclusion

Empowering Through Education

Our agency prioritizes DEI training for all staff and volunteers, including members of our Governance Board, Regional Board, and Bigs. By fostering understanding, respect, and awareness, we empower our community to actively contribute to a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive society.

Explore the following videos that have served as valuable guides in shaping our discussions on DEI:
Is equality enough?

Olivia Chapman, TED-Ed Student Talks

Critical mentoring – Because Young people deserve the best of us

Torie Weiston-Serdan, TEDxKG

how to overcome our biases – walk towards them

Vernā Myers, TEDxBeasonStreet

how to get serious about diversity & inclusion in the workplace

Janet, Stovall, TED

I got 99 problems... Palsy is just one

Maysoon Zayid, TEDWomen

This is what LGBTW life is like around the world

Jenni Change and Lisa Dazols