At Big Brothers Big Sisters Twin Cities (BBBSTC), justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion are essential to our mission, vision and values!
We work towards active inclusion and affirmation of LGBTQ+ people, who have historically faced discrimination and marginalization by oppressive systems. The backgrounds, lives, experiences and identities of LGBTQ+ people are varied and we want to ensure that all constituents, including youth, families, donors, volunteers, board, and staff, know that their full identities are accepted and valued at BBBSTC. We welcome and encourage LGBTQ+ people to fully participate in our programming.
Through the guidance of Mentorist and in partnership with MENTOR and MENTOR Minnesota, BBBSTC has implemented nationally recognized best practices outlined in the LGBTQ Supplement to the Elements of Effective Practice for Mentoring.
BBBSTC understands that this work requires continuous learning and we will continue to seek input from constituents to make improvements to our processes.
Together, we will create an organization where all can feel a sense of belonging through the following commitments:
- Hold inclusive, affirming, and safe spaces for LGBTQ+ identities.
- Seek input from constituents to improve agency initiatives.
- Require LGBTQ+ training for employees and offer training opportunities for board members and program participants.
- Continue to review and revise policies and practices to ensure that they are inclusive of LGBTQ+ identities.
- Invest in tools to appropriately support LGBTQ+ people in their communities.
- Uphold inclusive hiring practices and workplace culture.
- Create intentional partnerships with vendors and organizations that support the LGBTQ+ community.
This LGBTQ+ Affirmation Statement was created as part of our LGBTQ+ Ally Certification, with guidance from and in partnership with:
