DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION Events
Our Events & Community Outreach Committee is responsible for internal educational events and organizing philanthropic community outreach events.
2021 Events
Let's Ted Talk About Mental Health
Shedding light on mental health through TED Talks videos followed by panel discussions. Honoring Mental Health Awareness Month to end the stigma around mental health issues.
Diwali
True Value Associates celebrated Diwali, The Festival of Light, with history, music dancing and delicious food. One of the major festivals celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and some Buddhists, notably Newar Buddhists.
Leading & Succeeding in a Multigenerational Workplace
From Boomers to Gen Z, diverse perspectives change workplace dynamics. Karen McCullough guided us on understanding the needs and desires of the individual and offered insights and advice that resonated with emploees at all stages in their careers.
Cinqo De Mayo
Cinco de Mayo observed we learned the history the popular spring celebration. Contrary to popular belief, it is not related to Mexican Independence from Spain. but to the 1860s occupation of Mexico by France. On May 5, 1862, nationals claimed victory in a battle against a better fortified and skilled French army.
Asian Americans Advancing Justice
Catherine Shieh, the Anti-Hate Training Coordinator of Asian Americans Advancing Justice – Chicago, led an interactive discussion on the disrespect and dangers that Asians and Asian Americans facing now and throughout history. We learned what to look for in scenarios and how to intervene safely. Visit Asian Americans Advancing Justice
Minor Feeling: An Asian American Reckoning - Book Discussion
In light of recent and historical hate crimes in the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community, associates had a timely conversation exploring racialized consiousness in America.
2020 Events
In 2020, the unsettling events unfolding across the country affected all of us. Though not easy to process, especially while managing through the pandemic, shelter-in-place transitions and related stressors, we emphasized that True Value® is a place of tolerance that honors inclusion and encourages respect for diverse viewpoints. Our associates come from many backgrounds, cultures and communities and are united in our shared humanity and dedication to our independent retailers.
Let's Talk! Race, Racisim & Next Steps
Diversity Strategist, Torin Ellis led an interactive conversation around current events, inclusive capitalism, race and workplace culture. Challenging us on individual responsibility and being more HUMAN at work and beyond. Connect with Torin Ellis
Mental Health Awareness
Heather Bodie of Erasing the Distance, led an interactive experience to educate and disarm the stigma around talking about mental health in the workplace. Learn more at Erasing the Distance
Book Club: The Color of Law: A Forgotten History of How Our Government Segregated America
How segregation in America—the incessant kind that continues to dog our major cities and has contributed to so much recent social strife—is the byproduct of explicit government policies at the local, state, and federal levels. Watch Segregated by Design
German American Awareness
DANK Haus of Chicago, Museum Director Rosaw Gallagher shared how German culture influenced the American Midwest. Learn more about DANK Haus Chicago
Back-to-School Supply Drive to Support our True Value Boys & Girls Club
Collectively our associates teamed up by department and helped donate over $6,850 worth of supplies Learn more about True Value Boys & Girls Club
LGBTQ + Pride with Center on Halsted
Three panelists from the LGBT Speakers Bureau shared personal stories from different generational perspectives on the progress achieved through the years, as well as what still needs to happen to assure full equality. Pride flags were also provided to all associates and still stand proudly throughout our company’s floors Learn more about Center on Halsted
2019 Events
Ronald McDonald House of Chicago Donation Drive
Our associates had a friendly competition and helped donate 10 pallets worth of product resulting in the largest donation drive ever received at the Ronald McDonald House of Chicago Learn more about Ronald McDonald House
Understanding Domestic Violence with Sarah's Inn
Associates were provided purple ribbons to wear during the month of October while also attending a lunch & learn with guest speaker from Sarah’s Inn – one of the largest and most comprehensive domestic violence agencies in Chicago Learn more about Sarah's Inn
Senior Citizen Outreach at Norwood Crossing Retirement Community
Helped prepare, plate and serve a tasty brunch to the community residents while also brightening their days with some great conversations, live music & gifted plants for their homes Learn more about Norwood Crossing Retirement Community
Holiday Stocking Drive
Associates helped donate clothing, games & holiday candy to stuff over 100 holiday stockings for Chicago Veterans. Associates then helped pass them out at the Jesse Brown VA Hospital and also helped with their Veterans food pantry! Learn more about the Chicago VA
2018 Events
Illuminating Ability with The Chicago Lighthouse
Bringing awareness to the many accessible programs, support and technology for those who are blind or visually impaired. True Value also sponsored a lighthouse sculpture as part of The Chicago's "Lighthouse's on the Mag Mile". Learn more about Chicago Lighthouse
Stop Workplace Bullying with Christine Corelli
Interactive discussion on how workplace bullying can affect productivity, customer service and our bottom line. Associates learned what motivates a bully, common bullying tactics and effective intervention techniques Learn more about Workplace Bullying
Transgender Diversity with Precious Davis
Moderated discussion led by Precious Davis and former Senior Vice President Cathy Anderson. Associates learned about the misconceptions about transgender men and women, as well as non-discrimination laws covering the transgender community Learn more about Precious Davis
Serving Meals for those in Need at Breakthrough
A group of volunteers prepared and served meals for over 50+ men and women at the local Breakthrough support centers in Chicago's East Garfield Park Learn more about Breakthrough