Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging
We’re stronger together.
Year Up United’s mission is deeply rooted in a commitment to justice, equity, inclusion and diversity of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, physical ability, religion and socio-economic status amongst our student body and employees.
It’s about doing what is right and fair. It’s about giving space to every voice; making sure our workplace looks like our community; and ensuring every individual is empowered to be their truest, most authentic self.
Definitions
Year Up United’s philosophy is grounded in embracing and advancing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB).
Individual differences (e.g., personality, learning styles, life experiences, etc.) and group/social differences (e.g. race/ethnicity, class, gender, sexual orientation, country of origin, and ability, as well as cultural, political, religious, or other affiliations).
The guarantee of fairness in treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all students and staff, and the identification and elimination of barriers that prevent the full participation of some groups.
The active, intentional, and ongoing engagement with diversity in ways that increase awareness, mutual respect, understanding of the complex ways individuals interact within systems and institutions.
Belonging is a feeling of community with the people and environments that makes us feel connected and safe.
We believe that when we take the time to listen to one another — sharing individual stories and viewpoints — we build trust, understanding, and respect for perspectives and experiences that differ from our own.
We strive to create space for these conversations in our community and to apply what we learn to effectively close the Opportunity Divide.
Key Priorities
Create an Inclusive Culture
We cultivate an environment in which all members of the Year Up United community are welcome, respected, and supported; where all perspectives and contributions are valued and proactively sought.
Staff Resource Groups
Staff-led resource groups support and uphold Year Up United’s commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB), and to developing a culture where students and staff can advance our ability to drive social change.
Opportunities for Staff Learning
Webinars, book clubs, lunch & learns, trainings, and guest speakers weave DEIB into Year Up United’s cultural fabric, fostering shared understanding and competencies around topics such as power and privilege, institutional racism, gender in the workplace, and unconscious bias.
Inclusive Talent Management
Year Up United is focused on inclusive and equitable hiring and retention practices. This is guided by training to effectively manage diverse teams and reduce bias, professional development for career advancement, and coaching and skill-building to enhance performance.
Champion the Business Case
We work with our corporate partners to change perceptions, evolve their talent practices, and increase diversity across the broader workforce.
Year Up United By the Numbers
BIPOC Representation at Year Up United
Creating a workforce that looks like the community we serve.
90%
BIPOC Students
65%
BIPOC Staff
Race/Ethnicity Representation (%)
- All Staff
- Director+
- Students
Gender Identity
- All Staff
- Executive Team
- Students
Setting Goals & Tracking Progress
Here’s how our 2023 organizational data compares to our current DEIB representation goals.
What employees say
Pursuing diversity is simply smart business
“Diversity requires equity and inclusion at all career stages. It’s driven by equal access to the opportunities and advancement that create a path to leadership.”
Ellen McClain
CEO and President
Year Up United
