Westerville Community Center Jan/Feb 2022

Page 8

Collaboration is Key

to Westerville Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Plans Westerville’s first Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Director is hitting the ground running. Jonathan Bentley began his role with the City last July, spending the first few months getting to know the community, engaging a network of resources and assembling a plan of action. “Westerville is wonderful. It’s clear to see why people want to work and live here and be a part of this community,” said Bentley. “What I want to do is help create in-roads and eliminate barriers for those who want to be here so they can succeed.” As Bentley puts it, it’s not enough to simply “check a box” when it comes to diversity, inclusion and equity. It’s important to create opportunities that help individuals and families of varying backgrounds thrive in Westerville. He’ll start by focusing on partnering with policy development and special events, as well as partnerships with community organizations, like Westerville City Schools. “Progress will be authentic to Westerville,” said Bentley. “We’re not looking to implement sweeping changes that alter the DNA of this community. Rather, I want to create opportunities for underrepresented populations to engage in the traditions and programs offered.” In 2022, Bentley’s action plan includes these major initiatives:

Public safety programming and engagement

In collaboration with the Westerville Division of Police (WPD), one priority is building upon the portfolio of successful community programs that may incorporate identifying opportunities to include people from underrepresented populations, particularly in planning and implementation. Future programming may also include special meetings and events, such as community conversations about social issues and the role of law enforcement.

HIRING AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

Bentley has had success creating opportunities and partnerships to develop jobs for minorities and minorityowned businesses. Specific to the City of Westerville, Bentley expects to work closely with the Department of Administrative Services/Human Resources to help prospective applicants overcome barriers to employment. This could include creating ways to better support individuals pursuing training and certifications, like those interested in becoming firefighter/ medics with the Westerville Division of Fire (WFD).

JOB GROWTH AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

In Youngstown, Ohio, Bentley created a referral database of minority-owned businesses that led to improved procurement and economic opportunities for the entire region. He plans to duplicate that program here, as well as partner with the City’s economic development team to find opportunities to better support those businesses.

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS AND SUPPORT

The diversity in the Westerville school district is an asset on which Bentley intends to capitalize. For example, Westerville City Schools STEM offerings will help connect students to underrepresented career paths as well as mentoring experiences. He also plans to work with Otterbein University, the Westerville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Westerville Public Library to coordinate and align programming whenever possible.

Bentley says it’s an ambitious schedule but within the capabilities of a community with a tradition of embracing progress and people. “Success looks like those who want to relocate to Westerville feel like they’re automatically going to be included in the community. That they can feel comfortable here,” he said. “With that level of acceptance, we can pair programs with people and make strides.” Learn more about Westerville’s diversity, inclusion and equity efforts at www.westerville.org.

WESTERVILLE CITIZEN’S ACADEMY RETURNS SPRING 2022 Get a hands-on, behind-the-scenes look at your favorite City programs during Westerville Citizen’s Academy, returning in April. The deadline to apply is March 31. For eight weeks, participants take part in weekly three-hour classes (held Thursday nights), learning to operate equipment, taking facility tours, viewing demonstrations and other hands-on activities. All residents are invited to participate, especially those who have an interest in serving the community on a Board or Commission. Read more and apply at www.westerville.org/wca. 8


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Adventure Fitness Course, eSports Room

2min
page 22

Watch Your Back: Shovel Safely this Winter

2min
page 21

Tips to Consider When Hitting the Road this Winter

2min
page 21

Adding These Steps to Your Cleaning Routine Can Help Prevent Fires

2min
page 20

Westerville Employee of the Year Announced

6min
pages 18-19

Remember the Right (of) Way When Emergency Vehicles Approach

2min
page 17

Public Safety Cadets Program

3min
page 16

EXPERIENCE, IN ADDITION TO TOP-NOTCH FACILITY

3min
pages 14-15

WESTERVILLE EVALUATES COMMUNITY APPETITE for Broadband as a Utility, Expansion

2min
page 13

Community Feedback Provides Insight Into Housing Market

2min
page 13

Utility Rates Now in Effect

3min
page 12

Veterans Memorial Groundbreaking

1min
page 11

Dunkin' Plans Percolating in Westerville

2min
page 11

Remembering Westerville Division of Police Officers

1min
page 10

Congratulations, WPD

1min
page 10

Women-Owned Shops Dress Uptown in Style

3min
page 9

COPC Dedicates New Building

1min
page 9

Westerville Citizen's Academy

1min
page 8

Collaboration is Key

3min
page 8

Orthopedic One Sets Headquarters in Westerville

3min
page 7

Financial Performance Cheat Sheet

4min
page 6

New Council Takes Seats in January

3min
page 4

The Story Behind: Alum Creek South Sledding Hill

2min
page 5
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