Making a Difference, Diversity Awareness Partnership

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the
world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has. Margaret Mead

Intentional thought, and a steady hand; relentless follow through, and a meandering journey took me to the annual dinner for the Diversity Awareness Partnership, an organization I, the St. Louis Rams (with whom I worked at the time) and a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens helped to found, last night. (http://www.dapstl.org/)

I am proud of playing a small part in making a difference.

Following is an overview of the organization:

The Diversity Awareness Partnership (DAP) is dedicated to promoting diversity in the St. Louis region around issues of race, religion, sexual orientation, and disability. This is done through collaborative community and school-based education and awareness efforts. Themed Make a Difference By Accepting Everyone Else's , the DAP has become a replicable model for communities across the nation in advancing public acceptance of diversity.

The work of the DAP is accomplished through the following:

School-Based Educational Programs: involving schools from throughout the St. Louis region in an effort to address the diversity in today’s schools and encourage respect and acceptance among students (Give Respect – Get Respect Youth Program and We’re All Alike, We’re All Different Disability Awareness Tool Kit);

Awareness Efforts: a comprehensive media campaign positively highlighting issues of diversity and promoting messages of acceptance and inclusion;

Community Resources: a website (www.makeadifferencestlouis.org), online diversity resource guide and information line (1-866-ONE-CITY);

Collaboration: facilitate the development of innovative, collaborative projects, events and programs between partner organizations by serving as a forum for the exchange of research, ideas and best practices.

Diversity Presentations: offer diversity presentations and trainings to businesses, schools, and community groups that foster ideas of diversity, inclusion, and respect.

The Diversity Awareness Partnership is supported by the following organizations:
Ameren UE
National Conference for Community and Justice
AHC Consulting
Pulaski Bank
Anti-Defamation League/AWOD Institute
Special School District of St. Louis County
Behavioral Health Response
St. Louis Blues
Cooperating School Districts
St. Louis Cardinals
Coro Leadership Center
St. Louis Rams
Edward Jones
Saint Louis Science Center
Fair St. Louis
Washington University in St. Louis
Greater St. Louis Federal Executive Board
Webster University
International Institute
YWCA
KMOV Channel 4