Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Mission Statement
- comprehensive training for our staff and Board of Trustees;
- updating policies and practices in order to better recruit and retain employees who are representative of our diverse community;
- encouraging innovative ideas from all areas of the organization; and
- collaborating with local organizations to provide meaningful opportunities for all Roaring Fork Valley residents to engage with ACES.
Here are some of the things we have done to date and are currently doing:
- Formed an internal DEI committee that meets monthly that includes representation from all areas and levels of the organization including the Board of Trustees
- Integrated organizational DEI goals throughout ACES’ new strategic plan for 2024-2026
- Expanded ACES Education programs to schools in the Re-2 School District
- Provide scholarships (up to 100% of the cost) for ACES field programs for approximately 75% of school groups
- Partner with local organizations to make ACES events more welcoming and relevant for our diverse valley community
- Translating self-guided tour materials and signage at our sites into Spanish
- Increasing accessibility at our sites (e.g. accessible trails and paths, signage, etc.)
- Created the Naturalist Assistance Program for Naturalists in need of financial assistance
- Participated in the Equity Action Project’s (EAP) 7-week race, equity and inclusion training and continued participation in the EAP Alumni Network
- Provide reimbursement for fees associated with Spanish language classes for educators
- Partner in the Youth in Nature program for local high school students and transitioned ACES’ high school Trook Apprenticeship program into summer-long, paid positions
- DEI onboarding training for all of our staff starting Summer 2024
