Fostering Belonging Through Community and Care From Affinity Groups

You can’t measure belonging, but individuals tend to clearly identify when they feel they do not belong. A sense of belonging can be experienced in many places; however, one of the most outstanding places is the workplace. This session explores using Affinity Groups or Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) as a powerful tool to enhance Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) at work. We will explore their impact on personal and professional support, mentorship, and the overall workplace culture. Attendees will engage in an interactive discussion about: Affinity Groups structure, function, and strategic design to promote employee engagement and participation, creating spaces that support mental health and caregiving, ensuring every voice is heard and valued, real life stories and strategies demonstrating how Affinity Groups foster community and belonging at work, and actionable strategies to enhance mental wellness and foster an inclusive workplace.