Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are vital to achieving our mission, living our values, and advancing the common good. United Way of Southern Maine fosters and promotes an inclusive environment that leverages the unique contributions of diverse individuals and organizations in all aspects of our work. We know that by bringing diverse individuals and viewpoints together we can more effectively create opportunities for a better life for all.

United Way of Southern Maine takes the broadest possible view of diversity, going beyond visible differences to affirm the essence of all individuals including the realities, background, experiences, skills, and perspectives that make all people who they are. Engaging the power of diverse talent and partners results in innovative solutions and the community ownership necessary to address complex community issues.

However, we recognize structural racism, ethnic discrimination and other forms of oppression have particularly contributed to disparities that have existed in the past and persist in the present. We acknowledge those inequities are the result of policies and practices that work to marginalize entire populations of people. United Way of Southern Maine seeks to dismantle disparities and strives to engage community members, especially those whose voices have traditionally been marginalized, in the shared work of building a better community for all. We commit to leveraging all of our assets (e.g., convening, strategic investments, awareness building, advocacy) to create a more equitable community.

We unequivocally denounce all forms of racism and discrimination because they undermine the well-being and vitality of our community. We work with public and private partners to co-create solutions that ensure everyone has the resources, support, opportunities, and networks they need to thrive.

Approved by the Board of Directors on May 13, 2021