Leading the way
Times of crisis often shine a light on what is already in plain sight, including unequal access to resources and opportunities for people living below the poverty line, people with disabilities, the elderly and people of color. The pandemic caused by COVID-19 has adversely impacted the financial, social and emotional well-being of all of these groups by a significantly higher percentage than the general population. The Up Center envisions a world where society and its systems— such as education, criminal justice, healthcare, and housing—are just, fair and inclusive and our work addressing equity and social justice are at the core of our pandemic response.
In January, The Up Center hosted three workshops for our staff, Board of Directors and community leaders centered around Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI), presented by Natalie Burke. Ms. Burke is the President & CEO of CommonHealth ACTION, which seeks to produce health through equitable policies, programs, and practices for individuals and organizations. She is a nationally known speaker, “equity evangelist,” strategist, master facilitator and public health leader.
Featured image (from left to right): Tonya Pass, Human Resources Officer; Andrea Long, Chief Program and Strategy Officer; Angela Bell, Director of Program Operations; Natalie Burke, President & CEO of CommonHealth ACTION
