The YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee is committed to equity and inclusion by ensuring that all members of our community have the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. We celebrate diversity and effectively engage, connect and advocate for our staff, members, and volunteers which will position us to respond and remain relevant to issues impacting our communities.
DIG INNOVATION NETWORK
The YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee is a part of the DIG Innovation Network.
A DIG Innovation YMCA is a pioneer Y dedicated to creating, strengthening and replicating innovative diversity, inclusion and global services, partnerships and best practices at home and abroad that foster greater community cohesion and social equity. DIG Innovation Ys drive and showcase the U.S. YMCA movement’s efforts to advance diversity and inclusion and build global community in partnership with YMCA of the USA and other local YMCAs.
The YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee will take an active leadership role in the national strategic priority to ensure access, engagement, and inclusion for all as articulated in our collective cause-driven organizational behaviors.
deliberate dialogue discussions
View our Deliberate Dialogue Discussions, a series of intentional conversations with community leaders, on the social determinants of health. These discussions took place the week of the 2021 YMCA MLK Celebration.
equality vs. equity – Advancing Equity for All
The terms equity and equality are sometimes used interchangeably, but while these concepts are related, there are also important distinctions between the two. Equality is defined as treating everyone the same, while equity is giving everyone what they need to be successful. Everyone should have the opportunity to be successful and live a fulfilling life. Unfortunately we don’t all start off in the same situations, or have the same lifestyles, backgrounds, needs and wants. Far too many people, especially those in underserved groups and communities, lack equal access to resources, opportunities or support systems. To truly promote equity, we must “level the playing field” by identifying and eliminating barriers, and helping to develop solutions and support systems – so that all individuals can successfully realize their potential.
21-Day Equity Challenge
Equity Challenge Pledge
By participating in the 21-Day Equity Challenge I pledge to be accountable for my own actions and education. To be accepting of feedback and other points of view. I pledge to do my part to intersect bias in myself and others by vowing to change my future actions. I will take the knowledge that I have learned from this challenge and apply it to my everyday thinking until my habits begin to change. Join us and take part in the 21-Day Equity Challenge today!
Dimensions of Diversity
This Diversity Wheel diagram represents the various dimensions of diversity. To truly be inclusive and welcoming to all, it is critical to understand the many factors that make up and influence a person’s individuality. To learn about the different dimensions of diversity, click on the button below.
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our Changing Communities
Communities across the U.S. are rapidly changing. As neighborhoods become more diverse, it is important that we understand who is in our communities and how best to serve their interests and needs.
YMCA Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement
The YMCA does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, or other legally-protected status. The YMCA is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment consistent with its mission.
Get involved with the ymca dig movement
To demonstrate our commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, Global and Equity(DIG), the YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee has formed an internal committee to help operationalize diversity, inclusion, global and equity practices, policies within our association so that our Y can effectively serve all backgrounds and be responsive to the needs of the community.
Executive Board Social Responsibility Committee
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- Andres Gonzalez*
VP, Diversity & Inclusion, CDO
Froedtert
- Andres Gonzalez*
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- Alexa Alfaro
President & CEO
Meat on the Street
- Alexa Alfaro
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- Damian Buchman
President & CEO
The Ability Center
- Damian Buchman
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- Alvin Hill
Senior Director of Diversity & Cultural Competence
Milwaukee Center for Independence
- Alvin Hill
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- Jason Rae
President & CEO
Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce
- Jason Rae
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- Lydia Smith
Sr. Manager, Diversity & Inclusion
Kohl’s
- Lydia Smith
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- Elizabeth Strike
Sr. Diversity and Inclusion Talent Consultant
Associated Bank Milwaukee
- Elizabeth Strike
*Committee Chair
DIG Committee Members:
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- Shaneé Jenkins
Vice President, Social Responsibility & Operations
YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee
- Shaneé Jenkins
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- Dan Flynn
Human Resources Manager
YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee
- Dan Flynn
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- Eli Fyksen
Senior Director of Operations – Camp Minikani
YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee
- Eli Fyksen
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- Jen Warren
Marketing Director
YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee
- Jen Warren
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- Leila Wright
Executive Director
Rite-Hite Family YMCA|YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee
- Leila Wright
For information on to get involved with the Y’s DIG movement, please contact Shaneé Jenkins; VP, Operations & Social Responsibility at sjenkins@ymcamke.org.