Why JRI?
Creating a workplace in which diversity is valued and cultural humility is promoted are core values of JRI. Efforts to recruit, promote, and support culturally and linguistically diverse professionals as well as seek to mirror the demographics of the people we serve are critical to the success of our programs.
Professional Development Groups
We want our employees to think of their work at JRI as a career, not just a job. We encourage them to take every opportunity to grow. When people come to work at JRI, they have opportunities for advancement at every stage of their professional lives. That means helping them acquire new skills so they can shoulder new responsibilities, as JRI helps build the social justice workforce of the future.
Future and Leadership
Our Future and Leadership groups are professional development groups for staff who have either been identified by their supervisors as long-term employees and future leaders or who already have some experience as a leader. These groups are provided with support, networking opportunities, problem solving techniques and leadership skills. Since 2017, over two hundred employees have graduated from these groups.
Mentoring Program
Our Mentoring program matches mentors and mentees across the agency to help with connections and professional development goals.
I enjoyed the special opportunity to work with Tara Sagor, who was my mentor. I especially appreciated that she was a person who heard my ideas and related to my interest in trauma work. Moreover, she helped me explore other programs within JRI for support and raised the possibility of furthering my interests in work and education. She also helped me look into an advanced degree at Williams James College, Simmons and BU. I am grateful not just for Tara, but also for JRI for providing endless opportunities for staff.
Sivaing Suos
Mentee and Case Manager in JRI’s Community-Based Services Division
JRI is one of the Top 10 Places to Work for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
The 10 organizations were selected from the Globe’s 2020 Top Places to Work rankings. These organizations received the highest scores on a survey focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Being on this list is a reflection of the work we are doing, at all levels of JRI. There is still more work to be done, and we pledge to stay engaged and work even harder.
Read the article.Supportive Communities and Conversations
As a social service agency devoted to social justice, we must do more than talk about racism, diversity and inclusion. We need to ensure that our employees are supported along their journey. One way this happens is creating safe spaces for our staff to be together to share, support and encourage conversations and learning.
Black Affinity Group
The Black Affinity Group was formed by Black employees and they meet regularly to discuss Black experiences within the agency. While it is an informal group formed by and for staff members, it brings feedback and suggestions to leadership.
The Black Affinity Group came together in the wake of the George Floyd murder and the racial/social reawakening of the nation. It was created to be a safe space for JRI staff who self-identify as Black, could come and share their thoughts, feelings, joys, and fears. We have been meeting every Friday since then. We hope this outlet will become a piece of the JRI legacy of social justice.
Larry Day
Co-Organizer of the Black Affinity Group
Courageous Conversation: Empowering Change through Allyship
At JRI, we understand that addressing systemic racism demands a comprehensive approach. This led to the creation of Courageous Conversation in May 2020—a dedicated forum for open, monthly discussions centered on four key pillars: Fostering Racial Healing, Strengthening Allyship, Advancing Education, Promoting Social Justice.
Diversity Advisory Group: Cultivating Inclusion and Equity at JRI.
The Diversity Advisory Group (DAG) plays a pivotal role in advancing JRI's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, aligning with our strategic plan and mission of social justice. In an era where divisive forces threaten inclusion, the DAG takes action. We aim to understand, promote, and exemplify values and practices that nurture an equitable culture embracing unique identities. Through advocacy and collaboration, we champion the inclusion of diverse cultures and individuals with varied experiences and backgrounds.
Employee Engagement Committee: An Uplifting JRI Community
The Employee Engagement Committee (EEC) infuses our organization's dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) with professionalism, warmth, and FUN. Our mission? Cultivating an environment where employees are valued and empowered to be their authentic selves at work.
At the EEC, engagement means more than participation; it's about creating a cohesive sense of belonging where everyone can thrive. Our mantra, "Be The FORCE," highlights our commitment to Fun, Opportunity, Recognition, Connection, and Empowerment. We're on a journey toward inclusive excellence that enhances the experience.
LGBTQ+ Action and Advocacy Employee Resource Group
The LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group is a welcoming and inclusive community for all employees who self-identify as LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and other non-binary identities). We embrace individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences within the LGBTQ+ community. You are not alone; we are here to stand with you.
Trauma Response Network: Nurturing Well-being at Every Stage
At JRI, we prioritize employee well-being. Our Trauma Response Network, aligned with our safety and resilience focus, boasts a dynamic, multi-tiered crisis response, ensuring adequate team support and prompt addressing of individual needs. By integrating trauma-informed care, we enhance our ability to support staff working with vulnerable populations—a testament to our commitment to a resilient, supportive workplace.