J.E.D.I. HISTORY

Our organization has evolved to meet kids and communities where they are. But it starts with why BBBS was founded in the first place. We are an organization born out of JUSTICE, to create EQUITY for youth, bringing together DIVERSE communities, so that all children can feel INCLUDED for the promise of opportunity and a better life.

 

OUR J.E.D.I. COMMITMENT

J.E.D.I. STATEMENT

Our organization has evolved to meet kids and communities where they are. But it starts with why BBBS was founded in the first place. We are an organization born out of JUSTICE, to create EQUITY for youth, bringing together DIVERSE communities, so that all children can feel INCLUDED for the promise of opportunity and a better life.

​

BBBS7RR is committed to fostering a culture of inclusion and connectedness with an acknowledgment that this growth is constant. Justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (J.E.D.I.) is an integral part of our values and mission. We recognize, affirm, and celebrate the diverse backgrounds, lives, and experiences of all of our stakeholders, including youth, families, donors, volunteers, and staff. We ensure the opportunity for all voices and perspectives to be heard and honored. In the workplace, we foster an environment where all people can be their best selves.

​

We welcome stakeholders, including youth, families, donors, volunteers, and staff, including those in the LGBTQIA+ community and affirm that every person regardless of ability, age, cultural background, ethnicity, faith, gender, gender identity, gender expression, ideology, income, national origin, race, sexual orientation, marital, or veteran status has the opportunity to reach their full potential. We strive to realize the full potential that is within all of us by ensuring that all voices and perspectives are heard and honored.

 

WHY DOES J.E.D.I. MATTER?

J.E.D.I. work widens the circle so that all youth can belong and have equitable access to opportunity, especially those who are historically left out. J.E.D.I. includes every young person, no matter their background, identity, or culture. Our vision is that all children achieve their full potential.

​

As mentors, we need to learn how to become better partners with young people by acting in humility and being inquisitive. We understand there is no singular lived experience, value, or perspective; the impact of our relationships is realizing the rich beauty in diversity. We want youth to feel safe and able to express themselves fully while recognizing and honoring what makes them unique.

​

The four tenets of J.E.D.I. support our long-standing commitment to amplify and uplift all young people. In addition to the more recognized tenants of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (D.E.I.), BBBS7RR intentionally applies justice to our work to focus us on transforming internal systems and structures that create inequity. Justice challenges everyone to take responsibility for change.