New York Belonging Consortium™

 

The New York Belonging Consortium™ is dedicated to advancing belonging and inclusion within communities and organizations throughout New York. This consortium provides a platform for leaders, advocates, and changemakers to collaborate, share best practices, and drive systemic change that promotes equity, inclusion, and belonging.

 

About

The New York Belonging Consortium™ is a statewide initiative committed to fostering a sense of belonging in all aspects of society, from workplaces to communities. Through advocacy, education, and partnership, the consortium empowers individuals and organizations to embrace diversity, promote inclusion, and build equitable environments where everyone can thrive.

 

Mission

To cultivate a culture of belonging across New York, ensuring that every individual feels valued, supported, and empowered to contribute to their fullest potential.

 

Vision

To create an environment where belonging is a foundational value, driving innovation, collaboration, and equity across all sectors and communities.

 

Founder’s Welcome

Dennis KennedyWelcome to the New York Belonging Consortium™!

It is with great pride and excitement that I welcome you to this transformative initiative dedicated to fostering a sense of belonging, equity, and inclusion across New York. Belonging is more than a concept—it is the foundation for thriving communities, innovative workplaces, and a more connected society. At its core, belonging ensures that every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and talents.

As we navigate a rapidly changing world, the importance of inclusion and belonging cannot be overstated. Whether in the workplace, in our neighborhoods, or within our broader communities, the ability to come together and create spaces where everyone feels at home is essential to achieving equity and prosperity. The New York Belonging Consortium™ was founded on the belief that we can—and must—do better.

This consortium represents a collective commitment to meaningful change. It is a platform where leaders, advocates, and visionaries from diverse backgrounds come together to share insights, address challenges, and craft actionable solutions. Through dynamic discussions, innovative programming, and collaborative efforts, we aim to empower individuals and organizations to lead the charge in creating inclusive and equitable environments.

Belonging is not achieved overnight; it requires effort, dedication, and a willingness to embrace change. This is a journey we take together, learning from each other and growing stronger as a result. I encourage you to engage fully with the resources, training opportunities, and events we have prepared. Be curious. Be courageous. Be committed to making a difference in your corner of the world.

Thank you for joining us on this journey. Your passion and dedication inspire hope and drive progress. Together, we will build a future where everyone, regardless of background or circumstance, feels they truly belong.

Warm regards,
Dennis Kennedy
Founder, New York Belonging Consortium™

 

Training

The New York Belonging Consortium™ offers robust and engaging training programs designed to equip individuals and organizations with the knowledge, tools, and strategies needed to cultivate belonging and inclusion in their environments. Our training programs include:

  • Fostering Inclusive Workplaces: A deep dive into creating equitable and inclusive organizational cultures that value diversity and ensure all employees feel supported and respected.
  • The Power of Allyship: An interactive program that explores the critical role of allies in advancing inclusion and belonging, offering actionable steps for becoming an effective advocate.
  • Creating Belonging in Communities: A workshop focused on practical strategies for building inclusive and equitable communities, from grassroots initiatives to broader social campaigns.
  • Leadership for Belonging: A targeted program for leaders that emphasizes the importance of inclusive leadership, equipping participants with skills to champion belonging within their organizations.
  • Breaking Down Barriers: Training designed to address systemic challenges and unconscious biases that hinder belonging, fostering a more equitable environment for all.
  • On-Demand Training Modules: Flexible and accessible online courses covering foundational and advanced topics in belonging, diversity, and inclusion. Participants can learn at their own pace and revisit materials as needed.
  • Customized Training Programs: Tailored workshops and courses developed to meet the specific needs of organizations or communities, ensuring relevant and impactful learning experiences.

Each training session incorporates evidence-based practices, interactive discussions, and practical tools that participants can apply directly to their work or community initiatives. Whether you’re an experienced leader or new to the conversation, our training programs offer valuable insights and strategies to help you advance belonging in meaningful ways.

 

Recognition

The New York Belonging Consortium™ is proud to celebrate outstanding contributions to fostering belonging, equity, and inclusion across New York. By recognizing individuals, organizations, and initiatives that exemplify these values, we aim to inspire continued progress and innovation. Our awards categories include:

  • Champion of Belonging Awards: Honoring individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership and commitment to creating inclusive environments where everyone feels they belong.
  • Community Impact Award: Highlighting initiatives that significantly improve the quality of life and equity in local communities, demonstrating the power of collaboration and shared purpose.
  • Leadership in Belonging Award: Recognizing leaders who inspire, advocate, and implement transformative practices that promote belonging in their organizations and communities.
  • Innovative Practices in Belonging Award: Celebrating organizations that develop and implement cutting-edge strategies to drive equity and inclusion across industries and communities.
  • Allyship Excellence Award: Acknowledging allies who go above and beyond to support and amplify the voices of marginalized groups, embodying the spirit of solidarity and inclusivity.

Award recipients will be celebrated during our annual Awards Gala, an inspiring evening dedicated to honoring those who lead the way in creating a culture of belonging throughout New York.

 

Schedule

The New York Belonging Consortium™ schedule offers a rich blend of inspiring keynotes, practical workshops, insightful panels, and opportunities to network and celebrate achievements. Each event is designed to empower individuals and organizations to foster a culture of belonging and inclusion. Join us in shaping a more equitable and inclusive New York!

2025: September 15-19, 2025

  • Day 1: Keynote – “Belonging as a Catalyst for Change”
  • Day 2: Workshop – “Building Bridges: Practical Steps to Inclusion”
  • Day 3: Panel – “The Intersection of Equity and Belonging”
  • Day 4: Networking Event – “Strengthening Community Connections”
  • Day 5: Awards Gala – Celebrating Champions of Belonging

2026: September 14-18, 2026

  • Day 1: Keynote – “Innovating Through Belonging”
  • Day 2: Workshop – “Developing Inclusive Policies and Practices”
  • Day 3: Panel – “Lessons from Leaders: Belonging in Action”
  • Day 4: Networking Event – “Fostering Collaboration Across Communities”
  • Day 5: Awards Ceremony – Honoring Visionaries of Belonging

2027: September 13-17, 2027

  • Day 1: Keynote – “The Future of Belonging in New York”
  • Day 2: Workshop – “Overcoming Barriers to Belonging”
  • Day 3: Panel – “The Role of Technology in Driving Inclusion”
  • Day 4: Networking Event – “Expanding Influence Through Partnerships”
  • Day 5: Awards Gala – Recognizing Belonging Advocates