Wilder is defined by diversity. It’s reflected in the broad array of people we serve and the employees and volunteers who serve them. Our definition of diversity is inclusive, focused on recognizing and appreciating the individuality of every employee, client, partner, and community member. Our commitment to diversity is not something we simply give lip service to; we act on it.

100 years ago, Wilder exhibited a unique vision in our commitment to non-discrimination. In this century, moving beyond non-discrimination is the critical challenge. We recognize that the diversity of the community we serve must be reflected in every aspect and level of our organization. To put it simply, it is central to our mission and essential to our success.

Wilder’s diverse culture recently inspired the formation of employee networks, forums that provide a source of support, information exchange, mentorship, and career enhancement. These networks strengthen our ability to recruit and retain a talented workforce by helping to create a more inclusive workplace, with expanded opportunities for employees to voice their ideas and influence organizational culture.

Wilder’s employee networks include:

Ujima - UJIMA is an employee resource group that raises and supports issues impacting employees of African descent. It is a Kiswahili word and is one of KWANZAA’s seven principles. UJIMA members chose it due to its meaning and message: “collective work and responsibility”, which guides the resource group’s goals, activities, and support of Wilder’s mission. UJIMA members meet monthly for a business meeting, and host occasional events for the foundation and its members.

Asian Employee Resource Group - The Asian Employee Resource Group was created to raise and support issues impacting Wilder Asian employees. It focuses in providing a respectful workplace, retention and development and recruitment for Asian employees. The group meets on a monthly basis for business meetings and also hosts social and educational events for the Foundation.

GLBT & Ally Employee Resource Group - The GLBT & Ally Employee Resource Group is a resource for Wilder's gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and ally employees.  It promotes acceptance of GLBT coworkers in the Wilder community.  Issues of coming out in the workplace, homophobia, heterosexism, gender identity/expression, GLBT families, public policy and more will be explored.  The group will also work to ensure that Wilder, as an employer and service provider, is a welcoming and empowering organization.  The group will work with the other affinity groups to promote a cross-cultural understanding of GLBT issues.