Our primary objective is to foster a welcoming environment for every employee, enabling them to make a meaningful impact and thrive with unwavering support and advocacy from their colleagues and leaders. This endeavor is an integral aspect of The Stash Way, and the successful achievement of these goals holds utmost importance not only for our business but also for us as compassionate individuals.

To actively address this challenge, Stash has established Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) as dedicated spaces where communities can engage in discussions, enhance their career development, promote allyship, and foster professional networking opportunities. These ERGs serve as safe havens, ensuring that everyone feels empowered to voice their concerns and experiences.

Our journey began in 2020 with the formation of two ERGs. Recognizing the importance of diverse perspectives and the richness of our workforce, we have since expanded to five high-performing ERGs by 2023. These groups encompass a range of backgrounds, interests, and identities, allowing us to embrace the vast tapestry of our employees' experiences.

Since then, each of our ERGs celebrated their respective heritage months, marking significant milestones in our commitment to inclusivity. These month-long celebrations provided invaluable opportunities to educate and enlighten our entire organization. Through engaging events, workshops, and seminars, we encouraged a broader understanding of different cultures, traditions, and histories, thereby fostering an environment of respect and appreciation.

The outcomes of our endeavors have been transformative. By amplifying the voices of marginalized communities and promoting dialogue, our ERGs have contributed to a more inclusive and harmonious workplace. Employees now have a stronger sense of belonging, knowing that their unique perspectives and contributions are valued. This, in turn, has positively impacted their overall job satisfaction and productivity (See Inclusion Index Action).

Looking ahead, our commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace remains steadfast. We will continue to expand our ERGs, ensure their sustainability, and strive for even greater representation plus an even more extensive platform around allyship and advocacy. Through new and ongoing initiatives, we will strengthen the bonds among our employees, cultivate an even richer culture of empathy and understanding, and ultimately drive our business forward by harnessing the power of diversity and inclusion.

Erick Smith