At the Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh (FHLBank), we are proud to have five Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) that provide our colleagues with support and promote collaboration. Our African American, Diverse Horizons, Multi-Ethnic, Pride and Women ERGs have enabled us to further our diversity, equity and inclusion journey, and all employees are able to join. In 2023, each group had incredible accomplishments and contributed to our organization in meaningful ways.
African American ERG (AAERG) is focused on organizational matters impacting African Americans within the workplace. The group is dedicated to supporting the recruitment, retention and engagement of African Americans while assisting in creating an inclusive environment, which enhances the work environment for all. During Black History Month, AAERG put together employee features to highlight and celebrate our influential Black leaders working at FHLBank, and was integral to planning our third annual Juneteenth Day of Learning.
Diverse Horizons ERG (DHERG) is dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion through reading and discussing current and classic literary works related to a variety of backgrounds, cultures, ethnicities and identities. The group’s focus is on building relationships among employees and increasing appreciation and understanding of diverse backgrounds and cultural experiences. One of the books DHERG read in 2023 was “Fighting Back,” an autobiography by Rocky Bleier, veteran and former Pittsburgh Steelers’ running back. At the end of the year, DHERG hosted Bleier at the office to hear his story directly, and also have photo opportunities with him, his book and his four Super Bowl rings.
Our Multi-Ethnic ERG (MERG) is dedicated to enhancing awareness of different ethnicities through events and community service opportunities that foster networking, professional development, mentoring and leadership opportunities for all. In June 2023, MERG hosted Maria Montaño to speak with FHLBank employees about her journey of becoming the first openly trans woman to serve as Pittsburgh's Press Secretary. During this time, Maria told stories about her experiences and her career accomplishments, including developing innovative social media campaigns, executing press events across Pennsylvania and developing a new communications staff.
The Pride ERG works to promote diversity, equity and inclusion by creating a welcoming and supportive work environment for members and allies of the LGBTQ+ community. The group’s focus is on building relationships among employees and creating an open forum to share common interests/concerns. This results in support for one another, and highlights ways our organization can learn from these conversations. In June 2023, FHLBank employees marched in the Pittsburgh Pride Parade to celebrate with our community and employees.
Our Women’s ERG (WERG) is dedicated to promoting women leadership and excellence. The group’s focus is on building relationships among employees, aiding in professional development and providing networking opportunities for its members. In 2023, WERG was able to bring in several different speakers to lead sessions on empowering women in the workplace. Members of WERG were also able to sponsor and support in-district events like Pittsburgh-based, Strong Women Strong Girls’ annual Strong Awards Celebration.
The ERGs further our diversity, equity and inclusion journey and make FHLBank a stronger work environment and partner to our community. While our ERGs center around events and moments, they also reinforce company values and create opportunities for all our employees to connect in meaningful ways.
