Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Commitee: 

In a dedicated journey towards creating a more inclusive and understanding community, the County of San Luis Obispo Behavioral Health Department's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee (DEIC) stands as a beacon of commitment to progress. It is wholeheartedly committed to fostering cultural humility at all organizational and service levels.

Its mission transcends beyond awareness; it is about actively engaging in respect, access, empowerment, and understanding the diverse tapestry of individuals, cultures, ethnic groups, genders, gender identities and expressions, sexualities, abilities, veteran statuses, spiritual affiliations, and linguistic backgrounds that enrich our community. 

DEIC is enthusiastic about leading, developing, enhancing, and maintaining a culturally-aware workforce, shaping policies, services, and programs that not only embrace but celebrate our community's diversity. Our focused efforts are dedicated to ensuring improved health care outcomes for every individual, honoring their unique identities and experiences. 

The DEIC meet every other month to monitor the trainings, policies and procedures, and strategies of the public behavioral health care system and their enhancement of cultural competence in serving individuals and their families. The primary objective of the group is to provide recommendations to the Behavioral Health leadership team regarding policies and strategies promoting justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion, and to coordinate training to improve engagement with under served and unserved populations.

The Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee (DEIC) - Cultural Competence continues to assess, advise, implement, support, and monitor policies and programs which ensures effective service and program provisions in all cross-cultural situations. The committee members, representing diverse cultural backgrounds and other special interests, will continue to provide input and insight to the Behavioral Health Department leadership team in order to create a safe and welcoming environment for all. 

Members:

Matt Pennon, Committee Chair, SLO Behavioral Health

Annika Michetti, Co-Chair Drug and Alcohol Services, SLO Behavioral Health

Jill Rietjens, Co-Chair Mental Health, SLO Behavioral Health

Kianah Corey, DEI Intern, SLO Behavioral Health

Kimberli Andridge, LMFT Private Practice

Jay Bettergarcia, Cal Poly SLO

Ana Isabel Cabezas, Cal Poly SLO

Thomas Cuddy, SLO Behavioral Health

Bryanna Gay, SLO Behavioral Health

Arlene Hernandez-Tapia, SLO Behavioral Health

Barry Johnson, Transition-Mental Heath Association

Margaux Jones, Family Care Network

Claudia Lopez, SLO Behavioral Health

Joannne Nibbio, Family Care Network

Lizzy Novikoff, Transition-Mental Health Association

Leo Ontiveros, SLO Public Health

Joy Pederson, Transition-Mental Health Association

Nasseem Rouhani, SLO Behavioral Health

Brett Pelch, SLO Veterans Services

Karina Silva Garcia, SLO Behavioral Health

Kathernine Soule, UC Cooperative Extension

Rachel Tarver, SLO Behavioral Health

Laura Zarate, SLO Behavioral Health

Bilingual Committee:

The Bilingual Committee serves as a beacon of support and advocacy for our diverse bilingual and bicultural staff. Rooted in the belief that every voice deserves to be heard, this group champions the unique perspectives and contributions of its bilingual team members. 

With an unwavering commitment to equity and inclusion, this committee strives to elevate the voices of our bilingual workforce and address systemic barriers that may hinder their success. Through collaborative efforts and innovative strategies, it aims to cultivate an environment where all staff members feel empowered to thrive. 

Its focus areas include: 

Advocacy for Bilingual/Bicultural Staff: Understanding the current landscape and advancing with an equity-focused approach. 

Bilingual Staff Compensation: Exploring avenues to ensure fair and equitable compensation for our clinicians and staff. 

Leadership Roles and Influence: Empowering bilingual team members to assume leadership positions within our employee affinity groups. 

Collaboration with Human Resources: Building strong partnerships to provide comprehensive support for our bilingual staff. 

Recruitment and Retention Strategies: Advocating for progressive approaches to recruitment and implementing strategies to enhance staff retention. 

Participation in Outreach: Engaging in outreach efforts in collaboration with HR to connect with prospective bilingual staff members. 

Review of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Initiatives: Ensuring that our Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging initiatives are aligned with our goals, with a specific focus on bilingual and bicultural perspectives. 

The Bilingual Committee is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where bilingual and bicultural perspectives are valued and celebrated. Together, we strive to advocate for equitable opportunities, amplify diverse voices, and cultivate a sense of belonging for all members of our department. 

This committee invites all interested individuals to join us in this important endeavor as we work towards building a stronger and more inclusive community. Your input, collaboration, and commitment are essential as we embark on this journey together. Reach out to us at [email protected] for more information.