Another workplace has signed the Belleville Workplace Inclusion Charter.
The YMCA of Central East Ontario is taking several measures to commit to inclusion in the workplace.
As part of their inclusion efforts to date, the YMCA of Central East Ontario has been comprehensive. At the policy level, they have ensured their organization has appropriate policies that protect the rights of their employees.
Their leadership has improved hiring practices by increasing their reach when recruiting talent and have strived for fair, unbiased interviewing and selection processes. Accommodations are provided and they have built accessibility into their culture. They also provide ongoing training opportunities and discussion for employees on subjects such as unconscious bias, accessibility, gender identity, racism, reconciliation, inclusion and equity.
They have recently undergone a Leading Equitable Accessible Delivery self-assessment process with the Abilities Centre which allowed employees to identify barriers and service gaps, and have provided reporting mechanisms for discrimination and harassment.
When it comes to next steps for their inclusion goals, the YMCA of Central East Ontario will be conducting a demographic survey for their employees and volunteers, setting concrete, measurable goals and creating a multi-year plan to ensure that they are upholding their commitment to the charter.
“The YMCA of Central East Ontario upholds its commitment to inclusivity and diversity as fundamental principles of our organization,” said YMCA of Central East Ontario President and CEO David Allen. “Our purpose revolves around the representation and service of our community. Embracing the Workplace Inclusion Charter exemplifies our proactive approach and accountability to the community we serve. Our objective is not solely to cultivate a diverse workforce, but rather to establish an equitable organization that offers a genuinely enriching and fulfilling career to all its employees. We recognize that diverse perspectives contribute significantly to our collective strength, a fact that is demonstrated on a daily basis through the harmonious and synergistic relationships fostered within our facilities.”
Mayor Neil Ellis joined David Allen and YMCA staff Tuesday to congratulate and thank them for their commitment to inclusion in the workplace.
“It is great to see the YMCA of Central East Ontario taking this step,” said Mayor Neil Ellis. “The aim of the Workplace Inclusion Charter is to ultimately create a more diverse and welcoming Belleville as a whole, so when large community-based organizations such as the YMCA join in the effort and take the pledge, we just get that much closer to our goal. I would encourage all workplaces to join us in our goal to be an inclusive community and sign the charter today.”
