Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Policy

18 Coffees is committed to cultivating, fostering, and preserving a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion.

We know that the unique individuals that make up our company and community are the most valuable asset we have. The collective sum of the individual differences, knowledge, life experiences, innovation, self-expression, unique capabilities and talent that our employees and Community Partners invest in their work represents a significant part of not only our culture, but our reputation and commitment to social impact, as well.

We embrace the differences in ethnicity, age, disability, family or marital status, gender identity or expression, language, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, veteran status, and other characteristics that make our employees, independent contractors, Community Partners, vendors and clients unique.

18 Coffees’ diversity initiatives are applicable—but not limited—to our practices and policies on recruitment and selection for full-time and contracting work, as well as client, vendor and programming partner engagements. We are committed to a work environment that encourages and enforces:

  • Respectful communication between all employees, Community Partners, independent contractors, clients, speakers and vendors

  • A company-wide approach, with all staff prioritizing diversity and inclusion as our collective responsibility vs. one leader or department

  • Teamwork and employee participation, welcoming the representation of all groups and perspectives

  • Work/life balance through flexible work schedules to accommodate employees’ varying needs

  • A responsibility to treat others with dignity and respect at all times. All are expected to exhibit conduct that reflects inclusion during work and at work functions, both online and in person

  • Prioritization of empathy, transparency in communication, reflection, and a bias to action

  • A growth mindset. We acknowledge that 18 Coffees’ work toward fostering a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion is never considered complete with this policy or any one of its components. Our collective efforts can and should be constantly refined and improved upon in an ongoing process that scales as our organization grows.

Any employee found to have exhibited any inappropriate conduct or behavior against others will be subject to disciplinary action, and any Community Partner, independent contractor, vendor, client or programming speaker may have their 18 Coffees relationship or membership terminated.