June 15, 2020
The Brenda Strafford Foundation values diversity and has embraced a culture of equality and inclusion throughout our organization for over forty five years.
In 1974, our Founder Dr. Barrie Strafford, started The Brenda Strafford Foundation and committed his life’s work, and The Foundation, to serve the vulnerable and less fortunate, in honour of his late wife, Brenda. Locally, this includes seniors in continuing care, women and children escaping domestic violence, and families facing homelessness, while internationally, this includes communities in need of healthcare services in some of the most under-served areas of the Caribbean.
Guided by our philosophy: ‘The preservation of dignity and the pursuit of happiness,’ we believe that everyone has the right to live with dignity and respect. We support equality and social justice for all.
Recent events have shone a bright and appropriate light on the continued scourge of racism in our communities and institutions. The Brenda Strafford Foundation stands in solidarity with those advocating for changes that advance the clear and urgent need for enhanced social justice and equality, and the end of systemic racism. No matter how apparent or subtle, society will not realize its full potential when racism continues to exist.
A recurring theme arising from the recent protests, rallies and dialogue on this issue is that it’s not good enough to simply acknowledge the issue, but that we collectively need to take action to challenge instances where discrimination exists.
To move beyond just words expressing our support, and to better understand this matter within our own organization, The Foundation will be convening a Working Group to review how we can better support equality and inclusion, and to recommend what additional actions we should be taking. More details on this initiative will follow shortly.
We all have a role to play in supporting diversity, inclusion and equality both within our organization, and within the community. We encourage our employees, residents, families, and all those associated with The Foundation, to actively challenge ourselves to continue to better understand, respect and support the unique needs, perspectives and strengths of each other, and of those we serve.
The Foundation is proud to serve those in need of care and support – from all ages, all ethnicities and races, and all walks of life – with dignity, respect and compassion. We are also proud to celebrate our workforce that is full of diverse backgrounds and perspectives. We believe our organization is successful as a result of diversity and inclusion for the betterment of our programs and the community at large.
Together, we are BSF Strong!
Mike Conroy
President and CEO
