Cultural understanding impacts not only the way that we connect with clients and volunteers, but also in the way that our clients and volunteers connect with us. It's well known that the pandemic continues to disproportionately impact communities of color. Now, more than ever, it’s important to embrace our diversity and gain a greater understanding and sensitivity to the multitude of cultures that make up the San Fernando Valley and our Center.
According to LA County Department of Public Social Services (DPSS), Los Angeles is home to more than 10 million residents, with 140 cultures, and as many as 224 languages We’re proud to say that more than half of our staff speak a second language, including Armenian, Farsi, Russian, Spanish, and Tagalog.
Commitment to cultural diversity is part of our mission and is supported at every level. Our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee is made up of a cross section of staff and is charged with identifying and addressing any biases or inequities within the Center; becoming better advocates for clients and families (particularly those who have experienced the traumas of racism in their lives); increasing diversity and inclusion in management and our Board of Directors; and, becoming stronger community advocates for racial and social equity.
The San Fernando Valley Business Journal recently honored the Center for our work related to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). Tim Ryder, our President/CEO, accepted the honor and spoke about how DEI has been a focus for the Center for more than a decade. Please watch the video of the event and learn more about the Center’s efforts. Our segment begins at 55:15 on the video.
