You may have noticed a few new faces on the YMCA of the Suncoast’s Facebook Page lately. That’s because Stephanie Zaragoza, the Community Impact Executive at YMCA of the Suncoast, is leading a Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) social media campaign, “Belonging Begins With Us” to shed light on our Y’s unique and diverse staff.
The Y is made up of people from all walks of life who have joined together with the shared commitment to ensure their community has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.
The Diversity Wheel (pictured above) is used as a guideline for interpreting why an individual belongs with the Y.
Stephanie’s Y bio states, “I’m a mom and I belong at the Y because I have watched my sons grow and thrive in youth sports.”
To truly be inclusive and welcoming to all, it’s critical to understand the many factors that make up and influence a person’s individuality. If we hold too narrow a view of what constitutes diversity, we will miss opportunities to effectively engage, connect and serve ALL members of our community.
We appreciate Stephanie’s work to enhance and promote the YMCA of the Suncoast’s DEI initiatives throughout the association.
Our employees are as diverse as the communities we serve, and we are excited for them to share what makes them unique!