About Our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Work

Actively dismantling hate with daily acts of love.

We believe that prioritizing diversity, equity and inclusion creates an environment that respects and values the individual differences both within our workforce and the communities we serve. That’s why we’re dedicated to creating an environment that is respectful, welcoming and inclusive of all.

Handsome young man outside in park smiling

Equity goes beyond simply promoting “diversity.” Equity also includes a historic and present-day examination of systemic and institutional policies and practices, to help eliminate inequities that impact vulnerable and often historically targeted communities. The historic reflection must include a generational and historical lens of trauma. That's why our teams focus on providing responsive, trauma-informed care.

An anti-racist world isn’t a destination. It’s a journey we take together.

At LifeWorks NW, our Diversity Resource Crew (DRC) is open to all team members who have an interest or passion in diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. We meet monthly to discuss how we can better serve our clients, what trainings can impact our work, and how we can work toward an environment that is respectful and inclusive of all.

A African American woman sits among her peers. She is dressed casually, is wearing a hat and glasses. She is smiling as she listens to her peers input.

Our Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) Employee Resource Group (ERG) was formed after hearing direct feedback from our staff of color that we needed to hold space for community building, resource sharing, and connection with other staff of color.

We use our annual All Staff event to bring cultural competency training and topics to all our team members, whether they're clinical or administrative. This annual forum gives our team members the opportunity to connect, learn, and explore all the programs at LifeWorks NW.

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A young female couple hold hands with each other while they hold a Gay Pride Flag overhead as they walk along a Portland, OR city bridge.

Here, gender diversity isn’t just a talking point. It’s woven into the fabric of our culture. Much like an employee resource group, our Prism Group is a group of team members who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, work with, or are an ally of the community. This group provides an opportunity to build and connect with others, share resources and discuss issues that impact our LGBTQ+ community.

While we are proud of these initiatives, we know that there will always be more steps to take toward a more equitable world, and toward becoming a more equitable organization. We welcome feedback and suggestions from staff, clients and the community as we strive toward our goals of creating a truly welcoming environment for all.