Forward

The Cummings Centre, a leader in the field of well aging, is a non-profit membership-based community organization located in Montréal, Quebec, servicing the 50+ population. In keeping with the evolving needs of this demographic and building on the passion and diversity of its volunteers, members, donors and workforce, the Cummings Centre, as part of its Strategic Plan Refresh, has undertaken a multidimensional approach to addressing diversity, equity and inclusion and belonging across all facets of the organization.

Building on its values to advancing the Centre’s DEI efforts a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Task Force was formed under the Board of Directors. As such, the following DEI Policy statement was developed with feedback from a series focus groups and the Board of Directors.

Statement

The Cummings Jewish Centre for Seniors is committed to creating an inclusive organization where everyone feels that they belong and has equal access to opportunities and advancement. We are an organization that promotes and values diversity. We welcome and respect everyone, without regard to race, religion, ethnicity, age, socio economic status, language, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or any other factor. We will not tolerate discrimination on any basis. Together, we strive to build an inclusive culture that encourages, supports, and celebrates the diverse voices of our staff, our volunteers, our members, and our clients.

Our commitment to inclusiveness will be reflected in our organizational policies and procedures, in our employment practices, in our strategic plan, within our organizational goals and evident in our diverse programming and allocation of resources.

* Cummings Centre values include:  Respect, dignity, diversity, equity, inclusivity, empowerment, excellence, compassion, and commitment

An eye to the future – Our commitment to DEI

1. Align both Human Resources and Financial resources to support best practices
2. Provide Training and Professional Development opportunities
3. Prioritize Governance Diversification
4. Improve Accessibility – Review and apply best practices for accessibility including: the Centre’s facilities, technological and communications platforms

ACCOMPLISHMENTS TO DATE

1. Conducted a series of Focus Groups including community partners and community organizations and staff**
2. Broadened the scope of recruitment fostering a more diverse work force reflecting various ages, cultures, abilities, gender identities, languages to represent diverse clients we want to serve
3. Increased accessibility for French and Russian speaking adults 50+ through simultaneous translation of programs
4. Expanded our reach to francophones by increasing our French Media spend and growing our network across diverse Consultation Tables as well as Sephardic groups and leveraging
5. Built partnerships with organizations reflecting LGBTQ+, interfaith, cultural diversity, disability inclusion and CDN community. 
6. Provided trainings for staff and volunteers on DEI best practices

** Focus Group #1- English (TIP OA, Gay and Grey, JEM Workshop, Beth Tikvah Synagogue, B’nai Brith residence)
– Focus Group #2- French (Centraide, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Maison de la culture Cote des Neiges de CDN, Centre des Ainés Côte-des-Neiges, Centre des Femmes du monde à Côte-des-Neiges, Club Ami, Fondation Émergence-défense des droits LGBTQ+, SPVM district 26, Santé publique de Montréal)
– Focus Group #3- Staff from all departments within the Centre