Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Connective
At Connective we are committed to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive space for all.
We believe that the diverse characteristics of individuals enrich our communities, and we strive to create spaces where these differences are valued and celebrated. Throughout all aspects of our organization, we implement inclusive, person-centered, collaborative, determined, and accountable approaches. Our values are at the foundation of everything we do.
- We provide compassionate services to any individual regardless of characteristics and background
- We are committed to creating a safe and welcoming organization where our staff and service users can be their authentic self
- We aim to achieve best practices in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and work together to continuously reflect, learn, and improve
Our Commitments to DEI
CEO STATEMENT
OUR APPROACH
We celebrate differences in race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, nationality, ability, age, and any qualification that makes everyone unique. We recognize that building a strong, diverse, equitable, and inclusive organization is an ongoing process, and we are committed to continuously improving.
As a first step, we created a staff-led committee to assess our organization using the internationally recognized Global Diversity Equity and Inclusion Benchmark (GDEIB) tool. This assessment allowed us to reflect not only on where we are, but on what we need to do in order to be a better employer for our staff and a better service provider for our community.
OUR STRATEGIC PLAN
In line with the recommendation of our GDEIB committee, we incorporated DEI into our organization’s strategic plan. As a key initiative under the SUSTAIN pillar, we solidified our commitment to Integrate DEI in all of our organizational practices. We believe that DEI is at the core of sustainability, and that perspectives from diverse teams not only broaden our efficiency, innovation, positive influence, and reach, but also support us in our mission to create safe, healthy, and inclusive communities for all.
DEI AUDIT
HIGHLIGHTS AND INITIATIVES
- A business case, strategic plan, and DEI statement have been created for the organization
- DEI has been added to the organizational strategic plan and a senior leader has been assigned to support and oversee the initiative
- Implementation and continuous review of DEI initiatives has been added to leadership accountabilities and job descriptions
- With the support of local Indigenous partners and First Nations Indigenous Studies student support, we have started the first steps in the creation of an Indigenous Advisory Committee to guide the organization in service delivery and governance
- Through our partnership with Council of Yukon First Nations, we strive to ensure that all of our programs in the Yukon provide culturally appropriate programming and supports
- We continue to build program partnerships with Elders in our communities, including through our Indigenous-focused Community-Based Residential Facility, Miyáq’elhá:wetawt
- Continuous program focus on accessibility and inclusion for diverse populations, including fully accessible housing options and gender neutral bathrooms across program locations
- Renovations to property locations to increase accessibility, including major renovations to our Elliott House program to provide full wheelchair accessibility
- Accessibility has been a focus for all organization communications, including the use of plain language and a commitment to full website accessibility
- Where possible, we have flexible work arrangements in place to accommodate the needs of our staff
- We continuously revisit our policies, procedures, job descriptions and job postings to be more inclusive
- Recruitment practices are redesigned to attract diverse candidates and be inclusive of all individuals.
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