Affinity Groups
Curious about Affinity Groups and what they mean for Health Care for the Homeless staff? Learn more about our Affinity Group program and how you can get involved.
Are you interested in bringing an Affinity Group to the agency?
Submit Your Affinity Group Ideas here!
What are Affinity Groups?
Affinity groups are a space for staff with shared experiences, identities, or interests to connect. They can be anything from book clubs or hobby groups to caucuses around a specific gender, race, sexual orientation, or other identity.
Affinity Groups offer a chance to:
- Cultivate a safe space to be in community, share resources, and engage in open and honest communication aligned with the agency's REI vision, values, and goals.
- Organize events and programs that celebrate diverse identities and promote community development.
- Serve as an advocate and collaborate with the REI Staff Committee to identify critical barriers, gaps, or other issues.
- Establish a platform to connect across departments, staff levels, and beyond.
- Develop leadership and facilitation skills.
The specific focus of these Affinity Groups, will be shaped by what staff want to see, but each group will:
- Be open to all current staff
- Be voluntary
- Align with the agency's REI objectives
- Promote equity, openness, understanding, and inclusiveness
- Adhere to the agency's policies and procedures
READ THE FAQ
Affinity Groups & Chairs
Read through group materials to learn more.
Reach out to group chairs with any group questions or interest in joining.
Current Groups
- Black Men in Healthcare (Malcolm Williams & John Lane)
Upcoming Groups
- Spanish Speakers and Learners (Kat Acosta & Nakia Bailey)
- Purpose & Goals
- Living with Disability & Chronic Illness (Rebecca Ritter; co-chair position open)
- Purpose & Goals
- Leave feedback for the group here!
Previous Groups
- White Women in Social Justice (Jill Rice, Yael Ben-Chaim, and Meredith Johnston)
- TAG: TTRPG Affinity Group (Syandene Underwood)
Affinity Group Resources
Are you thinking about starting an Affinity Group but not sure how? Have an idea but unsure about your purpose and goals? Already have a group but need help with how to lead the space?
These resources can guide you through the process!
Upcoming Events for Affinity Group Leaders
- ERG Leadership Conference | September 23-24, 2024 (optional activity, September 25, 2024), Hybrid