United Way of Wapello County (UWWC) strives to be a model of diversity, equity, and inclusion with our board of directors, staff, and volunteers reflecting the many faces, cultures, and experiences that proudly make up our communities.
Diversity is the quality of being different or unique at the individual or group level; this includes age; ethnicity; gender; gender identity; language; nationality; parental status; physical, mental, and developmental abilities; race; religion; sexual orientation; skin color; socio-economic status; the perspectives of each individual shaped by their experiences—and more.
Equity is the fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all people while striving to identify and eliminate barriers that prevent the full participation of some groups. Improving equity involves increasing justice and fairness within the procedures and processes of institutions or systems and their distribution of resources.
Diversity always exists in social systems. Inclusion, on the other hand, must be created. Inclusion is a strategy to leverage diversity to strengthen a system or organization. Leveraging diversity requires an environment where people feel respected, supported, listened to, and able to do their personal best.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the heart of what it means to Live United. We respect, value, and celebrate the unique attributes, characteristics, and perspectives that make each person who they are. We believe that bringing diverse individuals together is essential to achieving our mission and addressing the issues that face our communities.
Therefore, our aim is that UWWC's strategies, investments, and partners reflect these core values. Policies that guide and direct our employment practices, resource allocation, and volunteer recruitment are in keeping with our belief in valuing diversity, equity, and inclusion:
Employment:
UWWC is an equal opportunity employer committed to cultivating diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.
Equitable Access to Resources:
UWWC is fully committed to supporting programs that provide equal opportunity and access for all. Any program supported by UWWC funding must operate under all state and federal laws. This policy intends to provide funding to meet the needs of and support the diversity of our community. In implementing this policy, we will provide funding to programs targeting underserved populations as identified through the continuing assessment of community needs.
Inclusive Representation:
UWWC will intentionally engage board members and volunteers who reflect our communities' diverse cultures, backgrounds, and life experiences. We value the uniqueness of each individual and their ability to strengthen and enrich our organization.
Meaningful Exploration and Dialogue:
We will interact meaningfully with the community and learn from diverse experiences. We will challenge our viewpoints and assumptions, identify barriers to engagement, and change our practices when necessary.