Welcome to the first annual Conference on Diversity hosted by Three Rivers Adoption Council and Family Design Resources. 

As the theme of this conference implies, diversity is “not just Black or White,” but inclusive of all.  It is not enough to be accepting of individual differences but to celebrate those differences within each of us.  Inclusiveness means to be all-encompassing and embracing, which must be encouraged in every sphere of our lives, including our work places. Ensuring sensitivity to diversity is crucial if we are to provide effective and high quality services to children and families through the child welfare, education, mental health, medical, judicial and adoption systems.   

Regardless of your profession, every aspect of service delivery should be performed with respect for the various cultures within our communities.  From hiring staff that is racially diverse and reflective of the populations served to interacting with clients and co-workers in an appropriate and genuine manner—all are important if we are to truly and positively impact our communities. 

When the planning committee first met to develop this much needed forum for discussion we determined that this conference would:

·         Stimulate thinking,

·         Encourage and support difficult conversations,

·         Obtain new knowledge and abilities to enhance best practice skills, and

·         Provide a charge to view diversity through new lenses.

During this conference each of us is encouraged to look inside of ourselves, acknowledge how our experiences have shaped our perceptions, and challenge ourselves to think about how those perceptions have influenced our interactions with the children and families we have served.  Take this time to approach the subject matter with great openness.  Making small changes within ourselves will lead to great change in our community.

Sincerely,

Jacqueline D. Wilson, MSW/LSW                        Brenda Lawrence, MSW

CEO                                                                         Executive Director

Three Rivers Adoption Council                             Family Design Resources, Inc.