Phoenix House California is passionately committed to healing individuals, families, and communities challenged by substance use disorders and related mental health issues. This is our mission, and in striving to accomplish it, the leadership and Board of Directors stand with our staff, clients and community against all forms of racism, social bias and injustice.
We stand in solidarity with Black Lives Matter and all struggles to fight racism, acknowledging that senseless acts of violence and killing of Black people is unacceptable. We recognize that our staff and those we serve represent Black, Indigenous, People of Color, LGBTQ and other communities who face ongoing personal trauma due to discrimination and systemic racial and social injustices. This negatively impacts our clients’ ability to heal and receive long term recovery benefits. Phoenix House is committed to providing a safe space for all, promoting self-empowerment where clients develop effective tools to address challenges limiting full family and community participation.
Phoenix House leadership constantly challenges assumptions to ensure our company culture and work environment reflects our values. The organization is actively evaluating and improving systems and services to ensure equitable opportunities for staff. A Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Council (DEI) has been established and is chartered to identify any racial or social discriminatory issues facing staff in the workplace and recommend solutions including improving staff education and Phoenix House California practices. Together, we are committed to take the following actions:
- DEI Council will provide a platform for the staff to have a voice in developing inclusive practices and strategies to be incorporated within the Phoenix House pillars of People, Quality, and Performance.
- Ongoing trainings will be provided to all staff and leadership addressing discriminatory practices including Unconscious Bias, that may impact our relationships with our clients and with each other.
- Hiring practices will continue to reflect the diverse communities we serve, and we will comply with affirmative action practices, to ensure our organization reflects the communities we serve.
- Phoenix House CA will strive to ensure cultural and racial diversity in the Leadership team and on the Board of Directors.
Phoenix House California values diversity and will continue to maintain the highest Integrity, Collaboration, Appreciation, Respect, and Excellence and always be Forward-Thinking to meet the needs of our clients and staff.
Respectfully,
The PHCA DEI Committee
Nely Meza, LMFT,MBA
Sr. Director of Adolescent Programs
Brian Cropp, MBA, PHR, PHRca, SHRM-CP
VP of Human Resources
Natalie Dolishny
Sr. Director of Fund Development
Michael Joseph, M.S., CADC-CAS
Sr. Director of In-Custody Programs
Yolanda Lewis, LMFT
Program Director, Venice Residential
Giovanna Sanguinetti, M.A.
Program Director, BHIS/YRVSS
Jeanette Barreto, MPA
Sr. Director of Business Development
Luis Cervantes
VP of Finance