04/16/2024 | Press release | Archived content
Columbus, OH - Northwest Bank, a full-service financial institution offering a complete line of business and personal banking solutions, has introduced two new employee resource groups (ERGs) which serve as platforms for employees to connect, collaborate and contribute to a more inclusive workplace culture. The newly established ERGs include PRISM LGBTQ+ and Veterans & First Responders - both aimed at promoting inclusivity, diversity and professional development within the bank.
Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) are voluntary, employee-led groups made up of individuals who join together based on common interests, backgrounds or demographic factors. These groups are designed to be a sounding board for the organization by raising awareness on key issues, providing support and feedback and sharing their cultures and values.
The PRISM LGBTQ+ group is committed to cultivating a workplace where LGBTQ+ employees and their allies feel welcomed, supported and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. The Veterans & First Responders group honors all who have served and are serving by celebrating military and first responder culture, knowledge, awareness and advocacy. Both groups are open to all Northwest employees.
The launch of these new ERGs reflects Northwest's ongoing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) efforts and supports the work of the bank's Inclusion Council. This 20-member council, comprised of employees from diverse backgrounds, is dedicated to driving DEI initiatives across the organization. Committed to creating a workplace where all feel accepted, safe, seen and heard, Northwest also recently added a Chief Inclusion Officer to the bank's leadership team.
"We're proud to expand our current ERG offerings with the introduction of our LGBTQ+ and veterans and first responder groups," said Chief Inclusion Officer Cameron Skelton. "Our employee resource groups are an integral component of Northwest's commitment to creating an inclusive culture and fostering a sense of belonging within the company."
PRISM LGBTQ+ and Veterans & First Responders enhance Northwest's three existing ERG offerings - Next Level Professionals, LEAD for Women and Community of Color.