United Way of Coastal Georgia (UWCGA) strives to create communities where all individuals and families have the opportunity to achieve their maximum potential. Paramount in this goal is the commitment to equity in our work – from interacting with the public to engaging donors and allocating resources across our region.
Equity is the intentional inclusion of everyone in society. We recognize that the strength and vitality of an entire community is tied to just and equitable access to resources and opportunities. Equity is achieved when systemic, institutional, and historic barriers based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and other identities are dismantled and no longer predict socioeconomic, education, and health outcomes.
Further, we recognize that structural racism and other forms of oppression have contributed to disparities in our region. We unequivocally denounce racism and all forms of discrimination because it undermines the well-being and vitality of our community. As part of our mission to improve and change lives in Coastal Georgia, we commit to holding equity as a core value and working with public and private partners to ensure everyone has the resources, support, opportunities, and networks they need to thrive. We know that tremendous assets exist within traditionally underserved and marginalized communities. It is our commitment to work with diverse communities and individuals as partners, donors, and volunteers. We further commit to leveraging all of our assets, from strategic investments to awareness building to advocacy, for a more equitable Coastal Georgia.
Internally, United Way of Coastal Georgia aims to reflect the demographics of the diverse communities that we serve. We have and will continue to incorporate equity principles and practices in our policies including hiring, retention, and board development. We will hold ourselves accountable to ensure a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion and expect the same from our community partners.