Diversity and Inclusion Statement
United Way of North Central Oklahoma envisions a community working together to ensure that all people are afforded an opportunity to flourish and thrive. We engage in intentional actions focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of the organization, looking inward for accountability and outward to drive change and strengthen partnerships. We do this by:
- Developing a diverse, equity-minded board, workforce, and organizational culture, including our communications;
- Seeking to better understand and improve the way data is collected and analyzed to better address needs and communicate services available in a way that is reflective and inclusive of our communities’ diversity;
- Addressing barriers that uphold inequities by creating pathways to opportunity and hope;
- Investing in organizations that equitably serve diverse populations and needs.
As a community leader, the United Way of North Central Oklahoma accepts responsibility for and makes a commitment to creating and supporting inclusive communities. Many of the factors that stand in the way are clear: unconscious bias; structural racism; dehumanization based on race and culture; discrimination based on race, ethnicity, age, disabilities, religion, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression. These factors contribute to ongoing disparities and inequities.
Within our region and unique history, laws, systems, policies, practices, and even violence have marginalized entire populations, most notably Black and Indigenous Peoples and People of Color. We denounce racism and discrimination, actions that undermine the well-being, vitality and economic prosperity of our community.
To see a one-page overview of the Board-approved UWNCO 2022 DEI Plan as presented by the Diversity & Inclusion Advisory Council, please click here.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY POLICY
Equal employment opportunity is pledged to all applicants and employees. It is our policy to recruit, hire, train and promote individuals, as well as administer any and all personnel actions, without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, carceral history, military or veteran status, or status as a qualified disabled individual, in accordance with applicable laws.
VOLUNTEER DIVERSITY POLICY
It is the policy of the United Way of North Central Oklahoma to actively seek volunteers who broadly reflect the diverse nature of our community in terms of race, color, religion, age, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, military or veteran status, or status as a qualified disabled individual, as such diversity may exist and evolve from time to time.
COMMUNITY INVESTMENT INCLUSION POSITION
United Way of North Central Oklahoma seeks and supports agency partners that are inclusive in all aspects of their operations- from the clients they serve, to the volunteers they recruit, and the individuals they employ. For agencies not working to achieve this level of inclusion, United Way of North Central Oklahoma will consider scaling down its support and investment in the agency.
The success of United Way of North Central Oklahoma depends on the robust exchange of ideas—an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourish.
United Way of North Central Oklahoma embraces and recognizes diversity and inclusion as a core value and a critical component to effectively achieving its mission.
Engaging the power of diversity and promoting a rich inclusive environment allows the agency to address complex community issues and creates the best possible opportunities for those served.
United Way of North Central Oklahoma is committed to practices which enhance diversity in all activities, including the recruitment and retention of employees and volunteers from diverse backgrounds.
The Board of Directors and Executive Director will provide leadership and collaboration with clients, donors, employees, volunteers, agencies and community partners to ensure diversity and inclusion.
