Move provides avenues for discussion, change, professional development, and innovation, says CEO
Four groups dedicated to providing a safe and empowering environment for its employees to discuss, create and lead ideas and actions that inspire positive change has been established at NewRez through a new initiative.
The mortgage lender recently launched four inaugural Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) as part of a strategy to advance, cultivate, and sustain an inclusive corporate culture. The ERGs, which include a women’s group, veteran’s group, LGBTQ+ group, and environmental group, are spearheaded by the company’s diversity, equity and inclusion team and led by fellow employees.
“The first step to inspiring positive change and action comes from within – within ourselves and our fellow team members,” said Lusharn Heastie, chief diversity officer of Newrez. “The ERGs will be a conduit for team members to build connections with others across Newrez, serve as a safe space to discuss important topics, and help employees relate to one another through shared experiences and perspectives.”
The groups get together every month to find new ways to discuss organizational growth and find opportunities to volunteer together and foster advocacy. NewRez said it also encourages employees to form their own groups and put forward a supportive framework for launching new ERGs.
“The ERGs support ensures that diversity, equity, and inclusion are cemented into all aspects of Newrez and that all voices are heard and amplified,” said Newrez president Baron Silverstein. “Initiatives like our ERGs provide avenues for discussion, change, professional development, and innovation.”
