Side by Side believes in creating a diverse and inclusive environment for all members of our community. We are committed to creating safe spaces for diverse opinions, beliefs, and ideas to create a community that does not exclude anyone based on race, creed, country of origin, immigration status, religious or political beliefs, sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, or physical and mental ability. By giving everyone voice and choice in creating change, we believe that we can build a better world for the youth and families that we serve. 

 Ways Side by Side Improves Diversity, Equity & Inclusion 

• Ensure that our policies, practices, and procedures do not perpetuate harmful and oppressive practices.  
• Seek training and growth opportunities related to diversity, equity, and inclusion issues to ensure that we remain culturally curious and humble. 
• Maintain a Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) staff council to provide internal guidance and monitoring on issues related to agency DEI practices. 
• Examine our alliances, partnerships, and memberships to ensure that we remain aligned with institutions that support and honor the rich diversity and uniqueness of our families and the youth we support. 
• Diversify our Board of Directors and agency leadership to reflect the communities in which we work and the youth and clients which we serve.