Diversity & Inclusion Statement

Approved by the Board of Directors September 17, 2019

United Way of Naugatuck & Beacon Falls recognizes that the population today is increasingly diverse, diversity and inclusion remain vital to achieving our mission, living our values and advancing the common good. United Way of Naugatuck & Beacon Falls fosters and promotes an inclusive environment that leverages the unique contributions of diverse individuals and organizations in all aspects of our work. Valuing diversity means affirming the differences as well as the similarities among us.

We also recognize the need to be diverse in less tangible ways, by embracing diverse viewpoints and concerns in all that we do, from the everyday interactions between our donors, volunteers and our employees, to being sensitive and responsive to the diverse needs of the communities we serve.  It is our responsibility to understand how our society is evolving and how the population is changing.

Diversity and inclusion are the heart of what it means to LIVE UNITED.

Anti-Racism & Ethnic Discrimination Statement

 Approved by the Board of Directors June 21, 2021

United Way is invested in the health, education, and financial stability of every person in every community.

United Way of Naugatuck & Beacon Falls recognizes racism, ethnic discrimination and other forms of oppression have contributed to racial disparities that have existed in the past and persist in the present.

We unequivocally denounce racism and ethnic discrimination in all forms, and we remain committed to building a future of greater opportunity and true equity for all people living in our communities. We act by tackling the barriers to equity from past and present systemic racism that have impeded the health, safety and wellbeing of traditionally marginalized people.

United Way of Naugatuck & Beacon Falls will continue to work with residents across our communities to co-create solutions that ensure everyone has the resources, supports, opportunities and networks they need to thrive.

We commit to taking positive action to fight racism and ethnic discrimination by: eliminating structural barriers; holding ourselves and our community partners accountable; advocating for social justice; elevating community voice; engaging in further training to address our biases; and, practicing the change we seek to realize with a vision of a more equitable future for all.

At United Way of Naugatuck & Beacon Falls this means: evaluating programs and partnerships for alignment, continuing to solicit demographic information from our partner agencies on the populations they serve, recruitment of a diverse volunteer base, executive committee to review policies and procedures annually, investing in staff and board training to help recognize biases, and incorporating this ongoing commitment in our strategic planning.