Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Statement of Principle

We take the broadest possible view of diversity. Our community is stronger when people with different backgrounds, identities, experiences and perspectives can participate meaningfully in decisions that affect them.

We value the visible and invisible qualities that make every person unique.

We welcome the perspectives and experiences people bring to our shared mission. These perspectives help advance health, education, financial stability and community resilience throughout Northwest Illinois.

We believe community members, donors, volunteers, advocates, partner organizations and employees should have meaningful opportunities to help solve local challenges.

We strive to place diversity, equity and inclusion at the center of our daily work, partnerships and community investments.

We commit to listening to community voices, examining barriers to participation and improving how we serve residents across Stephenson, Jo Daviess and Carroll Counties.

We invite community members, nonprofit organizations, businesses and volunteers to join us in creating a Northwest Illinois where every person can access support and contribute to positive change.

LIVE UNITED

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Defined

Diversity

Diversity includes the characteristics, identities, experiences and perspectives that make individuals and groups different. These may include age, race, ethnicity, nationality, language, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, family status, socioeconomic background and physical, mental or developmental abilities.

Diversity also includes differences in education, culture, professional experience, communication, problem-solving and community knowledge. Even when people appear similar, their experiences and perspectives may be different.

Equity

Equity means recognizing that people and communities may encounter different barriers to opportunity. An equitable approach works to identify and reduce systemic, institutional and historical barriers that can affect health, education, financial security and quality of life.

Equity does not assume that everyone needs the same support. Instead, it considers what people need to participate fully and achieve fair outcomes.

Inclusion

Inclusion is the intentional creation of an environment where people feel respected, supported, heard and able to participate. Diversity exists within communities, but inclusion requires continuous effort.

Inclusive organizations invite different perspectives into conversations, decisions and leadership. They also create accessible ways for people to contribute their ideas, experiences and abilities.

How Inclusion Supports Community Impact

Diversity, equity and inclusion strengthen United Way of Northwest Illinois' work across our four community impact areas. Listening to different voices helps us understand local needs, identify service gaps and support solutions that are relevant to the communities we serve.

• Healthy communities: Connecting residents with health, safety and support services that recognize different needs and circumstances. Learn more about our Healthy Community initiatives.
• Youth opportunity: Supporting children, families and educators by expanding access to early learning and educational resources. Explore United for Kids.
• Financial security: Helping individuals and families find resources that reduce barriers to economic stability. Learn about our Financial Security Initiative .
• Community resilience: Connecting people with local assistance during emergencies, hardships and periods of instability. Residents can search for local help.

Accessible Community Support

Access to information is an important part of inclusion. United Way of Northwest Illinois works to connect residents with local health and human-service resources through 211 and our online resource directory.

If you need food, housing, utility, health, transportation or other community assistance, call 211 or search for local resources online.

Help Build a More Inclusive Northwest Illinois

Creating equitable and inclusive communities requires sustained participation. Community members can support this work by sharing their experiences, volunteering, partnering with local organizations and supporting programs that address barriers to opportunity.

Explore volunteer opportunities  |  Contact United Way of Northwest Illinois