OUR VALUES
MISSION
Working together to promote a community that embraces inclusion, respect, equity, and support for the human dignity of all persons.
VISION
A committee organization representing rural counties within North East/Central Pennsylvania to help uplift and support historically marginalized people. We will act as a voice for local community members in solidarity to injustices and inequalities. We will be a leading group in advocacy, education, collaboration, support, and networking for those in the counties we serve.
VALUES
Inclusion:
We are dedicated to helping provide inclusive, safe, and welcoming spaces to cultivate and facilitate the exceptional resources and experiences that meet the needs of our community members.
Respect:
We are responsible for upholding others to respect all people and understanding the diversity of their lived experiences. We seek to understand the needs of our community, approaching each conversation with thoughtfulness to allow others to feel appreciation and authenticity.
Equity:
We are driven to help support and advocate for those in need by engaging in dynamic conversations and exchange of information that offers value and celebrates those within our community.
OUR STORY
The Association for Inclusion, Respect, and Equity (AIRE), formally known as the Coalition for Social Equity, originated in 1992 out of a need to address numerous racial, gender, sexuality, and religious incidents at Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania in the Town of Bloomsburg, and the surrounding communities.
At that time, it was called the University-Community Task Force on Racial Equity. The Task Force was created by Bloomsburg University and the Town of Bloomsburg. It included BU students, staff, faculty, business owners, activists, teachers, and town residents.
Today, the Association for Inclusion, Respect and Equity (AIRE) casts a broader net to promote equality for all historically and present underprivileged people in Columbia and Montour Counties and to continue its efforts within Snyder, Union, and Northumberland Counties.
Special events and public education campaigns help community members understand how underrepresented community members experience inequity. We believe social equity is a core value; everyone should be treated with dignity and respect. Our efforts have been able to specialize different committees for community members to volunteer to help create the inclusion, respect, and equity needed for those historically marginalized. Such groups are related to LGBTQIA+ Pride, Cultural and Religious Alliance, and the AIRE Youth Ambassadors.
