Our Values

Values capture what is most important to an organization. MacArthur’s core values are deeply ingrained principles that embody who we are, what we stand for, and how we work.

Our values represent a core set of beliefs that guide how our organization conducts itself and builds trust-based relationships with partners and grantees. Our values guide our decisions, behaviors, and reflect how we seek to serve our communities and work together to create a more just, verdant, and peaceful world.

We live our mission through the Just Imperative, which charges us to lead with a commitment to justice.

Our Values diagram with five circles: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; Empathy; Integrity; Learning; Creativity

 

Illustration with light bulb shining


Creativity 


Creativity encompasses innovative, imaginative, and ground-breaking ideas, thinking, and strategies as we endeavor to have a meaningful impact on large and complex challenges. 

We turn new and imaginative ideas into reality. We recognize, celebrate, and support the creativity of individuals and organizations. 

 

Illustration of person with surrounding circles connecting to them


Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)


Diversity includes all the ways that people differ, encompassing the characteristics that make people distinct from another.

Equity is the fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all people, while identifying and eliminating barriers that have prevented full participation of some individuals. 

Inclusion is the act of creating authentic environments in which all individuals feel welcomed, respected, valued, and feel a sense of belonging. 

Through the Just Imperative, we ensure that our decisions and actions are rooted in the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion by embracing the unique attributes of all individuals; creating a fair playing field for all; and cultivating environments where everyone feels respected, valued, and a sense of belonging. 

 

Illustration of two people with talk bubble above their heads


Empathy


Empathy is the ability to sense and understand what someone else might be thinking or feeling. Empathy is central to respectful and compassionate interpersonal interactions. 

We recognize emotions in others and understand and acknowledge other people’s perspectives. We act with kindness and caring, which reflects our recognition and understanding. 

 

Illustration of scales of justice


Integrity


Integrity is the act of behaving honorably, even when no one is watching. It is a commitment to sound judgment, honesty, dependability, and accountability. 

We are honest and act with strong principles in all we do. 

 

Illustration of human head with a check mark in a box


Learning


We provide opportunities to our staff that acknowledge and develop their unique talents and skills; we embrace and draw lessons from all of our work and the expertise of our staff, grantees, partners, peers, and communities; and we actively promote sharing knowledge and expertise. 

We actively seek new understanding, knowledge, and skills.

 

Related Content


Defining Our Values ›
MacArthur President John Palfrey shares the values that drive how we work and discusses our commitment to be accountable to our values and to our community.

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