Improving Diversity, Ensuring Inclusivity and Championing Equity Benefits Everyone
NVV believes our community and industry should be open and welcoming to people of color, whether working in the industry, visiting Napa Valley or enjoying our wines anywhere. Following recent deaths of people of color and amidst nationwide protests, the NVV formed a Task Force to examine ways the organization could make a meaningful difference. Through research and in-depth discussions, a set of recommendations which included focusing on education and mentorship was then unanimously approved by the board.
NVV is partnering with UNCF (United Negro College Fund) to create a new scholarship program for people of color to pursue college degrees in wine industry subjects ranging from grape growing, winemaking, marketing, business and more. UNCF has been managing scholarships for minority students for 75 years and is the largest and most successful minority organization of its kind. The NVV has committed $200,000 to the fund each year for the next five years and will begin a fundraising effort with its members to build the fund beyond that initial investment. We are also investing more than $100,000 in two new mentorship programs being created by industry organizations Wine Unify and Bâtonnage. The mission of Wine Unify is to welcome, elevate, and amplify the voices of underrepresented minorities. Bâtonnage fosters solutions for a more positive, inclusive course forward wherein women and ethnic and racial minorities achieve equal representation, equal opportunities and equal leadership positions within the wine industry.
These new scholarship and mentorship programs build on NVV's longtime commitment to mentorship programs in Napa County with organizations such as Boys & Girls Club, Aim High and On the Move. This year alone, the organization provided nearly $2 million in funding to nine non-profit organizations whose missions are to close the achievement gap and help at-risk youth succeed in life. These programs together reached 40,000 children in Napa County. A consideration for grant giving going forward through Auction Napa Valley proceeds will be notable actions taken by organizations that work on enhancing diversity, inclusivity and opportunity for others.
In June, the NVV organized a session for our members to listen and learn from community leaders of color. In our own organization, we are making a commitment to magnify the voices of our diverse vintners through educational and marketing efforts. To help members, we are providing resources and workshops for owners, managers and employees to continue to learn and engage on these topics.
The NVV Task Force, made up of a diverse representation of our members, wine industry professionals and community leaders, will continue to meet to examine more ways our organization can make a meaningful difference and continue to hold ourselves accountable to expand our internal policies and actions.
How Can You Get Involved?
Get to know some of the people, organizations and initiatives we support through Auction Napa Valley.
Striving to ensure every Napa County child enters kindergarten ready to learn.
More than two dozen Napa County organizations working to make a difference.
