By the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Staff Workgroup
We want to update you on our progress. Our staff workgroup was established in 2020 alongside the National Board of Directors’ Diversity, Race, and Social Justice Committee.
Our workgroup’s purpose is to advance WestCare’s commitment to building the most welcoming, affirming, and inclusive organization for our clients, communities, and workforce.
We see and hear the acronym “DEI” so often that it’s easy to lose sight of what the abbreviation means. At WestCare, DEI is not just a catchphrase. Each word speaks to a distinct value and commitment. To put it simply (which is tough to do), DEI means:
Diversity: The presence of individual differences that enrich our organization.
Equity: Ensuring access and opportunities are offered for all to succeed and grow.
Inclusion: Creating environments where all can be and feel welcomed and affirmed.
WestCare’s vision for the workgroup is to bring together individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives to advance our organization’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Members of staff volunteering in the workgroup include:
- Yepsis Cabrera, Nevada
- Marcus Chapple, Nevada
- Beverly Watts Davis, Texas
- Jason Engel, Nevada
- Shawn Jenkins, California
- Savannah Jones, Nevada
- Maryann Knoy, California
- Travis Landry, Wisconsin
- Jeannie Lewis, Georgia
- Kim Marino, North Carolina
- Robert Neri, Florida
- Carlos Rodriguez, Illinois
- David Rosynsky, Florida
- Rashieda Shabazz, Nevada
- Dwayne Stevens, Tennessee
As we look ahead to the new year, our goal is to interact more with the WestCare Family. We’ll do this in a few ways. First, each issue of the WestCare Express in 2023 will include an article from our workgroup where we’ll share more about our DEI-related work. Second, in January, we’ll ask for your input in a very brief and confidential DEI Staff Survey. The survey will include a handful of questions to help our workgroup plan and execute activities more effectively.
Also in 2023, we want to hear more from you. We encourage our WestCare personnel to share questions, comments, and ideas with us by emailing diversity@westcare.com or reaching out to one of the members noted above.
