NEW ROLE WILL FOCUS ON DRIVING EQUITY AND INCLUSION THROUGHOUT THE ORGANIZATION
PROVIDENCE, RI – January 20, 2020 – YMCA of Greater Providence announced today that it created a new Diversity and Inclusion position, and has hired Kobi Dennis for the role. As the Diversity and Inclusion Manager, Dennis will focus on developing comprehensive diversity and inclusion initiatives at the YMCA of Greater Providence, and continue building a culture that values all employee contributions and diverse perspectives. He will be deeply involved in fostering strong community relations and assisting in the Y’s Urban Initiative. Dennis will report directly to the CEO, Steven G. O’Donnell.
“My dream has always involved impacting the lives of youth and families through positive change,” said Dennis. “This new appointment at the YMCA of Greater Providence will allow me to continue that quest up close and personal.”
“We have known Kobi for over a decade through his dedicated work in the community and we’re excited to bring him on board,” Steven G. O’Donnell, YMCA of Greater Providence CEO said in a statement. “Kobi was instrumental in developing the Y’s Urban Initiative taskforce which aims to revitalize the urban core with the development of state-of-the-art Y facility in Providence. Kobi’s innate ability to connect with those in our community will be instrumental as we continue our critical mission in bringing Y programs, services, and jobs to those who need it the most,” said O’Donnell.
Workplace diversity is an important predictor of profitability, according to the American Sociological Association. Dennis will be responsible for attracting, recruiting, promoting diverse talent, and creating a workplace culture in which employees feel valued, respected, and accepted.
Kobi has dedicated his entire professional life working to promote diversity and inclusion, said O’Donnell. “Diversity isn’t something we do – it’s who we are. Every day we work side by side with our neighbors to make sure everyone regardless of age, income, or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive,” said O’Donnell.
Mr. Dennis started his career traveling the world serving in the United States Navy. He studied Elementary Education at Rhode Island College and Human Development and Family Studies at the University of Rhode Island. Over the years, he has received numerous leadership awards throughout his military and civilian careers. In 2012, Mr. Dennis received the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Award by the City of Providence and was voted the “Top 10 People to Watch” by Providence Monthly. Mr. Dennis will assume this new role effective February 10, 2020.
About the YMCA of Greater Providence
The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility with a mission of nurturing the potential of children and families, improving the nation’s health and well-being, and providing opportunities to give back and support neighbors. The Y has the long-standing relationships and physical presence not just to promise, but also deliver, lasting personal and social change. Learn more at https://ymcagreaterprovidence.org.
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