Published August 24 2010
City now recruiting members
As part of an effort to provide better service to its increasingly diverse population, the City of Bellevue is seeking volunteers to serve on the Bellevue Diversity Advisory Network. The 16-member panel will advise the city on how to better reach, serve, communicate and collaborate with everyone in the community.
Members of the group will serve as a conduit between the community and city to ensure that Bellevue is a culturally responsive organization guided by the principles of equity, access, inclusion, opportunity and cultural competency.
Interested applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Work or live in Bellevue;
- Have cultural connections and knowledge of the city's diverse population;
- Possess a willingness, curiosity and interest in bridging cultural gaps to strengthen community;
- Volunteer two to four hours a month, including monthly network meetings; serve a two-year term.
Members will be selected in the fall. The deadline for applications is Sept. 26.
A panel of city staff and community members will rank applicants based on their ability to represent a broad range of the community's population and willingness to bridge cultural gaps. The city manager will appoint members to the Advisory Network, considering the panel's recommendations.
Over the last 25 years, Bellevue's diversity has become a defining characteristic of the city. Ethnic minorities have increased from 15 percent of Bellevue's population in 1990 to 41 percent in 2010. The city defines diversity broadly, and is looking for a wide range of representation.
Bellevue has embraced diversity as a major asset positively impacting the community's economy, culture and education. In 2014, the City Council adopted the vision statement: "Bellevue welcomes the world. Our diversity is our strength."
If you are interested, please download the application, complete it and send that back by post or email. To learn more about the panel, please contact Mark Manuel, diversity outreach and engagement administrator (mmanuel@bellevuewa.gov or 425-452-7886).