dei commitment

At DIG, we believe in the power of

diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)

to strengthen our community and enrich our work.

We understand that each individual brings a unique perspective, shaped by their experiences, culture, and background. We honor these differences and strive to create an environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

Our commitment to diversity goes beyond words — it is embedded in our actions and operations. From the volunteers we engage to the families we serve, we strive to reflect the rich diversity of our community. We ensure that our services are accessible and inclusive, meeting the varied needs of our clients and respecting their individuality.

Equity is at the core of our mission. We aim to address the systemic inequities that disproportionately affect marginalized communities, providing resources that empower individuals and families, regardless of their circumstances. Through our partnerships, we reach out to diverse communities, ensuring our impact is broad and inclusive.

Inclusion, for us, means creating a space where everyone feels welcome and can contribute their unique talents and skills. We value the diverse talents of our team and seek to create opportunities for individuals of all backgrounds to contribute to our mission.

We are on a journey of continuous learning and improvement. We know that our commitment to DEI requires ongoing effort, reflection, and action. We are committed to this journey, knowing that our DEI efforts will make us a stronger, more effective, and more compassionate organization. We invite you to join us on this journey as we work together to create a more equitable and inclusive community.

introducing…

  • Introduction to DEI: Exploring Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

    Building a DEI Commitment: From Values to Action

    • Wednesday, January 24, 5:00-6:00 PM | virtual

    Presenter: DIG’s DEI Committee

    No registration required.

  • Understanding System Inequities: History, Impact, and Solutions

    Celebrating Black History Month: Diversity and Inclusion in Action

  • Unconscious Bias: Recognition and Mitigation

    Women in Leadership: Promoting Gender Equity

    • Tuesday, March 19, 6:00 PM | at DIG, 14 Elm Street, Milton

    Presenter: Dr. Courtney Goettel, UPMC Family Medicine Residency, Williamsport

    Register here!

  • Cultural Competence: Enhancing Understanding and Communication

    Celebrating Diversity: Recognizing and Appreciating Differences

    • Thursday, April 18, 5:00-7:00 PM

    Presenter: Kat Sturzl, Leave Your Box with Kat Coaching & Consulting

    Register here!

  • Inclusive Leadership: Strategies and Best Practices

    Accessibility and Inclusion: Ensuring Equitable Participation

    • Date TBA

    Presenter: Anne Ross, Assistant Professor, Computer Science at Bucknell University

    Registration coming soon!

  • Pride Month: LGBTQ+ Inclusion and Allyship

    Systemic Inequities: LGBTQ+ Perspectives

    Presenter: TBD

  • Understanding Privilege: Roles and Responsibilities

    The Racial Wealth Gap

    • Wednesday, July 17, 5:00-8:00 PM* | at DIG, 14 Elm Street, Milton

    Presenter: Lycoming Tri-County NAACP

    Register here!

    *Dinner provided!

  • Inclusive Communication: Respectful Language and Behavior

    Promoting Racial Equity: Strategies and Action

    Presenter: TBD

  • Intersectionality: Understanding and Overlapping Identities

    Hispanic Heritage Month: Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion

    Presenter: TBD

  • Building Inclusive Teams: Strategies and Best Practices

    Navigating Difficult Conversations: A DEI Perspective

    Presenter: TBD

  • Indigenous Peoples and Equity: Recognition and Respect

    Effective Allyship: Supporting Marginalized Communities

    Presenter: TBD

  • DEI Year in Review: Reflections and Future Goals

    Building a DEI Culture: Sustaining Commitment and Progress

    Presenter: TBD

As a young organization, DIG has an opportunity and recognized responsibility to shape a culture based on a foundation honoring diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). With funding from The First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania (FCFP), we are able to engage experts and representatives in conversations surrounding a wide array of topics that will foster an inclusive environment for residents of the Greater Susquehanna Valley region.

DIG Deeper is a 12-month series of workshops open to active DIG staff, volunteers, and committed monthly financial donors. Registration is required after January’s kickoff. Please find registration links in the dropdown arrows on the schedule listed.

The competitive award from FCFP complements the foundation’s greater initiative called First Focus, which is designed to address system racism in the Susquehanna Valley. Click here to learn more about First Focus.

2024 schedule*

*NOTE: Topics are subject to change depending on speaker availability and community need. Registration is required after January’s kickoff.

DEI committee

Emily Gorski

Gabby Herman

Cherie Martin

Pat Sullivan

Lynn Pierson

Sarah Farbo

Susan Jordan

Carl Nelson