Diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the heart of Swords to Plowshares' mission. We passionately embrace these principles to create an environment that honors each person's story and empowers everyone to thrive.
At Swords to Plowshares, we recognize the importance of reflecting the diversity of the veterans we proudly serve. While not every member of our dedicated staff and Board of Directors is a veteran, we understand that the veteran community encompasses a multitude of identities. It is our belief that those who serve veteran clients as staff and volunteer Board members should mirror this diversity. Interested in joining? Learn more about our Board.
Our staff leadership team consists of 17 directors, of which 65% are women. Additionally, 41% identify as African American, 12% as Asian, 12% as LGBTQ, and 23% are veterans.
Our Board of Directors includes 14 members. An impressive 71% are veterans themselves, showcasing our dedication to those we serve. Of our board members, 35% are women, 35% identify as Black/African American, 21% as Latinx, and 57% identify as a person of color. Furthermore, 28% of our board members have disabilities, and 21% have lived experiences relevant to our mission.
At Swords to Plowshares, our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is not just a statement; it's a transformative approach. DEI allows us to examine and challenge institutional practices, policies, and procedures that perpetuate inequities. By explicitly addressing racial inequity, we ensure that all veterans have equal access to support, services, and resources. This commitment also extends to cultivating a workplace culture that promotes growth, community, and effectiveness, ultimately enhancing employee retention and job satisfaction. We firmly believe that a diverse staff better supports our veteran clients, helping us achieve our mission to end homelessness among all veterans.
Meet Mink Lincoln
Director of People & Culture
We understand that true equity goes beyond numbers. Our DEI initiative is more than statistics; it's about fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and heard. Our commitment to quality lies in the principles of Cultural Humility.
We are committed to ongoing education and growth. Our team members have access to workshops, seminars, and resources that promote diversity awareness, equity, and inclusive leadership.
DEI Committee
A volunteer staff group that spearheads our DEI efforts to ensure they remain an integral part of our organization's growth
Supportive Supervision Training
An extensive 15-hour training series that equips supervising staff members with tools to support and motivate the staff they manage
Supportive Supervision Dialogues
A space for supervisors to hold conversations that encourage growth and understanding around their leadership role
Open DEI Meetings
Monthly meetings open to all staff that provide a platform for open discussions, transparency, and collaboration on issues that impact the organization’s culture
Veteran Affinity Group
A safe space for veteran staff within our organization to connect and share their specific experiences
E-Suggestion Box
A digital avenue for all staff to contribute their ideas and feedback anonymously
Equity Book Circle
A reoccurring group engaging in literature that broadens perspectives and sparks conversations on equity
Cultural Humility Training
A comprehensive 15-hour series that deepens our understanding of cultural differences and experiences