Mission
Conserving nature, supporting wellness, and inspiring leisure for all.

Diversity, Social Equity & Inclusion Statement
The Vernon Hills Park District commits itself to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We value a mutually respectful, multicultural, and equitable environment that reflects the communities we serve.  We encourage a variety of opinions, approaches, perspectives and abilities. We create places and experiences where all feel welcome, comfortable, and have the opportunity to reach their full potential.  We are committed to putting resources and attention toward making our workforce diverse and equitable.

Inclusion Services
Vernon Hills Park District is a member of the Special Recreation Association of Central Lake County (SRACLC), a team of Therapeutic Recreation professionals that offer provides recreation programs and services to individuals with special needs or disabilities, and their families, who reside within the boundaries of Member Agency communities. SRACLC also provides assistance to individuals who wish to participate in VHPD programs.

Respectful Workplace
Vernon Hills Park District recognizes its responsibility to build and maintain a respectful workplace where everyone is entitled to respectful treatment in the District workplace. Being respected means being treated honestly and professionally, with each person’s unique talents, background, and perspectives valued.

Hiring
Vernon Hills Park District is committed to fostering, cultivating and preserving a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing equal opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, gender identity, age, disability, marital status, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, genetic information, associations with members of a protected class, or any other protected status consistent with applicable local, state, or federal law.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion means:

• Diversity is understanding that everyone is unique and recognizing our individual differences or similarities. It encompasses acceptance and respect while embracing background, professional experience, skills and specialization, values and culture, and social class.
• Equity refers to the qualities of justness, fairness, impartiality and even-handedness. This involves factoring in aspects of the system that have put particular groups at a disadvantage. Equity is inclusive equality with intentional focus on social and racial justice.
• Inclusion is acknowledging, welcoming, respecting, supporting and valuing the authentic participation of any individual or group. It’s creating an environment that engages multiple perspectives, differing ideas, and individuals from different backgrounds while providing a sense of belonging.