Our Commitment To JEDI - Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound
Our Values

Our Committment to Inclusivity and Belonging (JEDI)

We are unwavering in our commitment to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) and these principles are integral to our mission. We firmly believe that every person should have the opportunity to reach their full potential, and we are committed to upholding JEDI principles in all aspects of our organization. We are dedicated to taking concrete actions to uphold these values both internally and externally, with a particular focus on empowering BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color), LGBTQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual, plus) individuals and other traditionally marginalized communities. Through these actions, both internally and externally, we create a transformative environment where every person can thrive, be heard, and truly belong.

How We Live Our Values

Bigs

BIGS Bigs feel taken care of and heard. Bigs of Color and LGBTQIAA Bigs are recruited intentionally and feel that they belong with our organization. Bigs consistently see that we foster a safe space where their unique abilities and
skills are celebrated.

Littles

We match Bigs and Littles based on preferences, in- terests, shared life experience, and hobbies. We coordinate facilitated activities for matches to engage in throughout the community to develop their connection and provide ongoing support and training to volunteers. We ask and don’t assume.

Donors

Donors feel that they are an integral part of the mission and work of BBBSPS. All donors feel like their contributions matter and are impactful, regardless of their gift amount.

Staff

Staff are free to be their full authentic self at work. Our team’s similarities and differences are celebrated. The team sees themselves and their work as core to the mission.

Board Of Directors

Our BOD is a reflection of our community & are connected to each other as well as the staff of BBBSPS.

Families

Families know that we are a part of their community and do integral work within to improve and build upon it. We also bring families into our community when they engage with us and hope to make them feel included within BBBSPS.

Community

The community understands that we are inclusive and are partners in serving youth.

Justice, Equity, Diversity and inclusion
JEDI statement

Justice, Equity, Diversity and inclusion

At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound, we are unwavering in our commitment to justice, equity, diversity, inclusion (JEDI) and these principles are integral to our values and mission.

We firmly believe that every person should have the opportunity to reach their full potential, and we are committed to upholding JEDI principles in all aspects of our organization. We are dedicated to taking concrete actions to uphold these values both internally and externally, with a particular focus on empowering BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color), LGBTQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual, plus) individuals and other traditionally marginalized communities. Through these actions, both internally and externally, we create a transformative environment where every person can thrive, be heard, and truly belong.

Internally

we actively foster a culture of belonging through the following actions

Reflection and Learning

We encourage honest dialogue among our staff and board members, creating a space for reflection and continuous learning. By engaging in open conversations, we deepen our understanding of JEDI and belonging principles and their application within our organization.

Training and Education

We provide ongoing training and educational opportunities to our staff and board members, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to promote JEDI and foster a sense of belonging. This ensures that our team members have the necessary skills to create an inclusive environment.

Assessment and Improvement

We regularly assess our practices and policies to identify areas where we can enhance inclusivity and belonging. This process allows us to proactively address any barriers or challenges and make meaningful improvements within our organization.

Internally

we demonstrate our commitment to JEDI and belonging through the following actions

Valuing Every Voice

We recognize and honor the diverse backgrounds and experiences of all our stakeholders, including youth, families, donors, volunteers, and staff. We make every effort to ensure that our work reflects multiple perspective is heard and valued, regardless of their background or identity.

Equitable Access

We prioritize equitable access to our programs and services, ensuring that all individuals have an equal opportunity to participate and benefit from our offerings. We actively work to remove barriers and create an inclusive space for everyone.

Stakeholder Engagement

We actively engage with our stakeholders and seek their feedback. By actively listening to diverse perspectives, we ensure that our decisions and actions are informed by the needs and aspirations of our community. We value the input of our stakeholders as an essential part of creating a sense of belonging.

Land Acknowledgement

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound acknowledges that we operate on the unceded traditional land of the Coast Salish Peoples, specifically the first people of Seattle, the Duwamish People, the Muckleshoot People, and the Puyallup Tribe, original stewards of the land, past and present. We honor with gratitude the land itself along with the Duwamish, Muckleshoot, and Puyallup Tribes.