diversity, equity, & inclusion

At The Bridge Home, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment within our nonprofit housing services agency. We believe that embracing diversity and promoting inclusivity are fundamental to achieving our mission of providing compassionate care and support to those who are currently unhoused or temporarily housed. We strive to create a workplace and service delivery model that respects and values the unique contributions and experiences of every individual we serve and employ. 

Diversity: We recognize and celebrate the diversity of our community and acknowledge that each person brings a distinct set of perspectives, backgrounds, and identities. We are committed to cultivating an environment that values and respects diversity and other characteristics that make each individual unique. 

Equity: We are dedicated to promoting equity throughout all aspects of our organization. We aim to address the systemic barriers and inequalities that contribute to homelessness and affect marginalized communities disproportionately. We strive to provide fair and equitable access to our services, resources, and opportunities, ensuring that everyone has an equal chance to thrive and overcome homelessness. 

Inclusion: We believe that inclusion is crucial in creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all individuals. We foster a culture that actively seeks out and values diverse perspectives, encourages open dialogue, and empowers all voices to be heard. We are committed to creating inclusive policies, practices, and programs that address the unique needs and challenges faced by unhoused individuals. 

Key Principles: 

  1. Respect and Dignity: We treat all individuals with respect, dignity, and empathy, recognizing the inherent worth and value of each person. 
  2. Inclusive Acceptance: We embrace all individuals, irrespective of race, ethnicity, national origin, language, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, disability, socio-economic status, marital status, pregnancy or parental status, veteran status, political affiliation, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic, without discrimination. 
  3. Accessibility: We strive to make our services, facilities, and information accessible to all individuals, including those with disabilities or lack of English proficiency. 
  4. Empowerment: We empower individuals who are unhoused or temporarily housed to actively participate in their journey toward stable housing and self-sufficiency. We provide resources, support, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. 
  5. Education and Awareness: We are committed to continuous learning and development, providing education and training to our staff, volunteers, and stakeholders on issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion. 
  6. Collaboration and Partnerships: We collaborate with community organizations, government agencies, and other stakeholders to address systemic issues and advocate for policies that promote equity and social justice. 
  7. Accountability: We hold ourselves accountable for creating and maintaining a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment. We regularly evaluate our practices and policies to ensure they align with our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

By embracing diversity, promoting equity, and fostering inclusion, The Bridge Home aims to create a holistic and compassionate approach to addressing homelessness. We believe that by valuing and embracing the unique strengths and experiences of all individuals, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve and contribute to a more just and inclusive society.