Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Accessibility

DP DEI You Belong logo

We are committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) in all aspects of our organization and our partnership with the disability community. Our work is rooted in the firm belief that all people deserve respect and dignity, where we embrace and celebrate varied identities, preferences, and perspectives.

Our vision

We are building DEIA into our work systems and experiences so that all diverse voices are equally welcomed, valued, and feel a sense of belonging.

Mission Statement

We are committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) in all aspects of our organization and our partnership with the disability community. Our work is rooted in the firm belief that all people deserve respect and dignity, where we embrace and celebrate varied identities, preferences, and perspectives. These values are essential to our organization’s excellence and to achieving our objective of a more equitable and inclusive community for all.

We will ensure our systems, policies, practices, actions, and communications are equitable, including how we attract, hire, engage, develop, promote, and retain all staff. We intentionally engage in an ongoing process of active learning and growth to advance a culture reflective of a shared purpose and belonging.

At DP, we are dedicated to fostering a workplace that embraces Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA). Below, you will find our organization’s definitions of these principles.​

Diversity is the variety of backgrounds, experiences, perspectives, values, worldviews, and voices that exist among individuals. These differences may relate to race, ethnicity, gender, age, ability, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, and other characteristics that influence a person’s access to and experience in the world. 

Equity is the fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all individuals. It considers that people face different barriers and advantages based on their identities and experiences. Equity involves identifying and addressing those disparities by providing tailored support and resources, so everyone has what they need to thrive. 

Inclusion fosters an environment where diverse individuals feel welcomed, respected, supported, and empowered. It ensures that all voices are heard and valued, and that everyone has equitable opportunities to participate in and shape decisions, culture, and outcomes. 

Accessibility involves intentionally designing, developing, and implementing environments, supports, and practices to reduce or remove physical, technological, and attitudinal barriers. It ensures that all people, regardless of ability, have access across platforms by considering universal design, accommodations, and modifications. 

2020 - 2021
2020 - 2021

  • Launched cross-departmental DEI Committee
  • Contracted with The Equity Project for staff training and to establish a benchmark for employee engagement and belonging
  • Began commitment to 100% staff participation in DEI training (achieved!)
2022-2023
2022-2023

  • Added “A” for Accessibility, expanded to DEIA
  • Conducted all-staff Engagement Survey
    • Launched DEIA training modules 
  • Recorded and shared lunch-and-learn trainings and discussion guides 
  • Partnered with StandUP for ongoing staff training 
  • Introduced internal newsletter, trivia, and "Grow What You Know!” training series  
2023-2024
2023-2024

  • Updated DEIA definitions
  • Launched DEIA Fundamentals to Practice training 
  • Expanded educational opportunities for all staff on DEIA fundamentals
  • Revamped the employee appraisal tool 
  • Updated DEIA video featuring diverse staff voices 
2024-2025
2024-2025

  • Promoted staff wellness and resilience with training on vicarious trauma, compassion fatigue, and burnout
  • Hosted all-staff Mindfulness Movement Challenge
  • Revamped “Grow What You Know - On the Go!” as an on-demand training series
  • Updated The Credo for Mutual Respect
  • Revised the Grievance Policy 

Looking Ahead

  • Expand accessibility supports in recruitment, hiring, and promotion 
  • Continue to foster a culture of belonging for all staff
  • Leverage staff feedback to guide meaningful DEIA action  

Striving for an equitable & inclusive community

For our employees

Providing trainings for leadership and employees

Developing equitable leadership training opportunities

Making sure that every employee feels like their human identity is welcome in the organization

Offering appropriate and equitable resources for individual services and their families

A woman in sunglasses sat down on the ground surrounded by tall grass, looking at the camera and smiling.

For our individuals and families

Providing connections to inclusive resources for individuals/families in services

Evaluating and updating resource materials to increase access for individuals/families in services

Seeking to ensure equitable and accessible supports for the individuals/families in services

For more information on DEIA, please email DEIAfeedback@dpcolo.org