Employee Diversity & Cultural Proficiency
UCAN believes that being diverse, inclusive, and culturally/linguistically proficient are essential components in delivering quality programs and services. UCAN must maintain an inclusive environment that attracts, supports and develops a diverse and culturally proficient workforce. UCAN will achieve greater programmatic success when client services are delivered in a culturally and linguistically knowledgeable, relevant, and sensitive manner. UCAN understands that achieving this requires leadership engagement, planning, and active learning/effort on the part of all employees.
"I think diversity is an essential part of the workplace, whether that is diversity of race, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, nationality, disability or condition. Different experiences can offer distinct viewpoints on problem-solving and interacting with co-workers and clients. When UCAN implements procedures which promote diversity for leaders, staff, clientele, and programming, it leads to a work environment which increases the potential for all employees while recognizing their exceptional gifts and differences." - Daisy Cartagena, HR Assistant
Employee Diversity and Cultural Proficiency
- UCAN commits to develop and implement plans to recruit a diverse workforce across all roles and levels.
- UCAN creates and implements strategies to develop, promote, and retain employees who are diverse, inclusive, and culturally proficient. Employees have the responsibility to examine their own beliefs and biases and to not let them adversely impact the work of UCAN and our clients.
- In accordance with UCAN's EEO/Affirmative Action policy, UCAN does not make hiring decisions based on an individual's race, nationality or other groups protected by law. Part of UCAN's hiring practice includes determining and assessing an individual's understanding, sensitivity and appreciation of the cultural differences and similarities of the clients and families served. UCAN acknowledges and supports how this awareness adds value to the services provided to all clients, regardless of their cultural background.
- UCAN provides all new employees with diversity, inclusion, and cultural proficiency training during new employee orientation. UCAN offers additional training to help employees develop skills and knowledge necessary to integrate cultural concepts and inclusion into professional practice.
- UCAN includes a relevant Diversity and Inclusion dimension to the performance evaluation system for all employees.
- UCAN maintains a cross-departmental and cross-functional employee Diversity Committee to provide direction, feedback, and communication to the agency.
- UCAN provides venues for open and honest communication of diversity and inclusion issues. UCAN seeks out employee insight and recommendations on diversity and inclusion, as pertains to both employees and clients.
- UCAN encourages and supports Affinity Groups, designed to bring special attention to the needs of particular groups, with the goal of supporting employees and improving client services.
