WELCOME!
Thank you for joining us for a conversation discussing more inclusive, equitable, and dynamic board governance. The importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in this work cannot be overstated, as it fundamentally reshapes how power is distributed within our organizations. By fostering a culture where every voice is heard and valued, we can ensure that our boards are truly representative of the communities we serve.
Imagine a board where diverse perspectives not only enrich discussions but also drive innovative solutions. By embracing DEI, we move closer to this vision, shifting power to be more evenly distributed among all members. Representation matters. When our boards mirror the communities we support, we gain deeper insights and build stronger connections. Together, we can create a powerful synergy between achieving our financial objectives and being genuinely responsive to the needs of our community.
Let’s continue being champions for DEI in board governance, ensuring the conversation also translates into action to transform our work and the impact we can make. Together, let’s lead the way toward a more inclusive and equitable future!
Sincerely,
Sidney R. Edwards
Sidney R. Edwards VP of Diversity Equity and Inclusion
The Role and Responsibility of Board Volunteers & CEOs
The second community conversation was held In partnership with Leadership Metro Richmond (LMR). We discussed the critically important, yet often overshadowed, role and responsibility of board volunteers, CEOs and Executive Directors in effectively advancing diversity, equity and inclusion in organizations and the community.

YMCA OF GREATER RICHMOND edwardssi@ymcarichmond.org Rashi Branche Association Director of Diversity Equity and Inclusion YMCA OF GREATER RICHMOND brancher@ymcarichmond.org





ADVOCACY IN ACTION
INVEST IN DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION AND BELONGING

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Enhancing DEI Practices: Essential Resources for Decision-Making
The responsibility for equitable decision-making happens at all levels and in daily practices of every organization. Building on the insights from the June Advancing DEI Community Conversation event that focused keenly on equitable board development and intentionally inclusive community engagement practices, please consider exploring the following free resources to help you “set the table” for mutual success and powerful impact.
These tools could help you pause, reflect, and evaluate whether the decisions and actions we take truly foster an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environment where everyone feels they belong.
SEPTEMBER CONVERSATION
DEI and Data - September 12
How do we collect data, analyze it and take action based on the results? Katerina Rodriguez and Scott Desrosier, research experts from ADP, will take us on a journey to answer these questions and more. Click or scan here to check out some of their work and don’t forget to grab your ticket; registration link to the right.
GET INVOLVED:
Keep the conversation going! Scan the QR code and add additional DEI events in the area to the LinkedIn event page chat. Let everyone know what is going on in RVA!



SEPTEMBER COMMUNITY CONVERSATION
SEPTEMBER 12
WHEN 5-7:30 p.m. Dinner will be served
WHERE The Faison Center 5311 Markel Road Richmond, VA 23230
COST
$50 per attendee

SCAN or CLICK To rEGISTEr

