Unconscious Bias and Diversity institute

Having a working knowledge and understanding of a person’s or group’s culture and background are scarcely more important than in the field of human services. As we move into an ever more pluralistic and multicultural society, helping professionals are among those best equipped to deliver service and to empower people from all backgrounds to lead connected healthy lives. The workshops presented in this institute will introduce the concept of unconscious bias and invite participants to explore their own attitudes, beliefs and practices about differences, and how these may influence behavior and decision making related to the families we serve.

This institute will prove to be a relevant and valuable learning
experience for helping professionals at all levels, including operations/front line staff, supervisors, staff development trainers, management and human resources professionals. Participants will be provided with information that may challenge them to shift their mindset, skills to help make connections and increase understanding for the populations they serve, and resources to aid them in providing service with compassion.

Learning Objectives

Unconscious Bias & Diversity

  • Identifying the ways in which bias can be unconscious and automatic
  • Discussing how prejudice, stereotyping and discrimination impact how we react and relate to one another
  • Increasing awareness of unconscious bias and perceptual filters in order to minimize the impact on our work as helping professionals
  • Practicing moving from thinking about bias to taking meaningful steps to overcome it

Hidden Disabilities: How to Spot Them and Ways to Help

  • Identifying the wide variety of hidden disabilities that negatively impact many of our clients
  • Reviewing the law regarding Division 21, with emphasis on Hidden Disabilities
  • Considering an attitudinal shift when assisting clients with Hidden Disabilities
  • Exploring the challenges clients with hidden disabilities are facing when navigating social service systems
  • Discussing ways staff might support clients in their efforts to participate
  • Debating reasons why some clients may not choose to reveal their disability
  • Identifying resources for referrals

Foundations to LGBTQIA Allyship in Human Services

  • Developing awareness of issues faced by LGBTQIA people
  • Enhancing communication skills with regards phobias and other forms of oppression
  • impacting the LGBTQIA community
  • Exploring opportunities to be inclusive in our work in Human Services
Course Code
504002