At WMPC, we are committed to advancing a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) in all aspects of our work, even as systems and challenges continue to evolve. We recognize that meaningful systems change requires ongoing reflection, learning, and action to ensure children, youth, and families experience equitable opportunities and outcomes.
Disproportionality and disparity impacting children, youth, and families of color remain significant concerns within child welfare and related systems. National data continues to demonstrate that children and families from historically marginalized communities often experience unequal outcomes across prevention efforts, investigations, placement decisions, permanency, and access to supportive services.
We acknowledge that inequities are influenced by systemic barriers, bias, cultural misunderstandings, and historical inequities that shape experiences and decision-making. Through our work, WMPC strives to advance equitable, trauma-informed, and community-centered approaches that promote fairness, accountability, and opportunity for all children and families.
We believe that inclusion is not enough without belonging. WMPC is committed to fostering environments where individuals feel respected, heard, psychologically safe, and connected to a shared purpose—where diverse perspectives are valued, and every person has the opportunity to contribute authentically to meaningful change. families of color and other marginalized groups.
Dismantling systemic barriers that perpetuate disparities in child welfare
In order to determine under- or over-representation of a racial or ethnic group, we use a comparison method called the Relative Rate Index (RRI). The majority group, white children in Kent County, has a proportionality level of 1.0. Any group above this level has an over-representation in foster care.
These charts demonstrate the positive impact of the strategic efforts WMPC has implemented to address racial disproportionality.
Enhancing our DEI capacity improves WMPC’s cultural competency, which is essential for effectively serving a diverse population of children and families in the child welfare system.
WMPC values a culture where every voice is heard and respected, fostering a sense of belonging and connection among our team. We embrace multi-dimensional diversity and empower everyone to perform their best work.
Additionally, we support our network partners in their DEI efforts, collectively driving systemic change.
We have partnered with Social Current, a national DEI consulting firm, to enhance our practices, policies, and systems, ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion within our organization and community.
By genuinely engaging, listening, and building meaningful relationships with families from various cultural backgrounds, we can provide personalized and equitable resources and services that meet their needs and support reunification.
Approaching our work with humility, curiosity, and respect for diverse cultures fosters partnerships with families and communities. This collaborative approach helps us better understand and dismantle systemic barriers that perpetuate racial and economic disparities in child welfare, creating a more equitable system for all children and families.
Using regular data analysis across multiple partner agencies and over time, WMPC staff are able to see patterns and gaps in the current system that might affect disproportionality and disparate outcomes for children of color. Through analysis, we can make recommendations that inform new policies and develop new programs supporting the unique children and families we serve.