by Anthony Hernandez, Board Member
In recent years, Willy Street Co-op has prioritized organizational improvement, focusing particularly on fostering Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Regular updates have highlighted the strategic progress toward this vital goal, with the leadership team consistently communicating the significance of DEI and transparently detailing the investments made to advance these objectives.
While the primary aim has been to ensure a welcoming and respectful environment for all, emphasizing DEI also yields tangible benefits for our company’s bottom line and long-term success. We’ve underscored to our partners and vendors that prioritizing DEI is integral to our business practices and future endeavors.
This commitment to DEI aligns with a broader trend seen across various industries nationwide, reflecting a societal shift towards creating environments where diversity is embraced, equity is promoted, and inclusivity is fostered to enable individuals to thrive and maximize their potential within organizations.
However, effecting change is no easy feat, and what works for others may not necessarily suit the unique needs of our Willy Street Co-op community. Our leaders are pioneering innovative solutions tailored to our community values, recognizing that there’s no definitive guidebook for navigating this transformative journey.
As we strive towards our DEI goals, we continually challenge ourselves to assess how this initiative enhances our organizational practices, influences our definitions of success, and fosters growth while remaining true to our commitments and values. This ongoing process of learning and reflection underscores our understanding that frontline teams play a pivotal role in realizing change, as they implement DEI policies and programs at the core of our organization.
Central to our efforts is ensuring that managers and staff recognize how DEI enhances their work and contributes to positive outcomes. Managers are particularly invested in fostering inclusive team dynamics to achieve shared goals, understanding that well-trained, supported, appreciated, and respected staff are better equipped to excel.
Conversations with Willy Street Co-op’s leaders reveal a collective commitment to supporting the DEI initiative, prioritizing inclusivity, high standards, and locally tailored solutions.
Leadership permeates every facet of Willy Street Co-op, from frontline employees to those working behind the scenes, as well as in our community and vendor relationships. Our aim is to cultivate and sustain an organizational environment where everyone feels safe, welcomed, and respected, aligning closely with our community’s values.
While integrating DEI priorities into our work culture presents significant challenges requiring dedication and patience, the investments made will undoubtedly yield substantial returns in the long run.
RESOURCES TO LEARN MORE
DEI at Willy Street Co-op
www.willystreet.coop/DEI
DEI Dashboard (metrics that we’re tracking)
www.willystreet.coop/dei-dashboard
DEI Statement
The Eight Cooperative Principles that guide our daily work are rooted in equity. Principle One, “Voluntary, Open Ownership,” means that we are open to all without gender, social, racial, political, or religious discrimination. Principle Seven, “Concern For The Community,” leads us to work for the sustainable development of our communities. We prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion to reflect our employees, customers, partners, and suppliers as well as the communities we serve.
The Eight Cooperative Principles
www.willystreet.coop/8-principles