Frequently asked questions
About Uplift Inclusion
Q: What is Uplift Inclusion?
A: Uplift Inclusion is a consulting and fractional leadership practice founded by Ciara Gogan, a seasoned leader in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB). With certifications from Harvard Business School and eCornell, and more than two decades as an LGBTQIA+ leader across a variety of industries, Ciara brings both professional expertise and lived experience. Uplift partners with nonprofits and purpose-driven organizations to embed equity and belonging into strategy and culture, helping people and organizations thrive.
Q: Why should my organization invest in DEI or belonging work now?
A: Even if the language around DEI feels tricky these days, the work is still essential. Building inclusive workplaces improves employee engagement, strengthens trust, and drives better outcomes for your organization and community.
Q: What if we’re hesitant to use DEI terms?
A: That’s okay! We can frame the work as culture, engagement, belonging, or community connection. What matters is aligning your strategy with your values and creating a workplace where everyone feels valued.
Services & Support
Q: What is fractional DEIB leadership?
A: Fractional leadership gives you ongoing, part-time DEIB expertise without the cost of a full-time hire. Think of it as having a strategic advisor and subject-matter expert embedded in your organization, helping guide culture and inclusion work consistently over time.
Q: Do you offer one-time consulting projects?
A: Yes. From program design and policy reviews to allyship training and ERG support, I work with organizations on project-based engagements as well as longer-term partnerships.
Q: What kinds of workshops or trainings do you offer?
A: I design custom workshops on topics such as unconscious bias, allyship, psychological safety, LGBTQIA+ inclusion, and more. Every session is tailored to your team’s needs and context.
Q: Do you provide leadership coaching?
A: Yes. I offer 1:1 Inclusive Leadership Coaching to help leaders build the skills to lead with empathy and effectiveness in today’s multicultural workplaces.
Q: Can you help us prepare for the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index?
A: Absolutely. I assess your current policies, benefits, and practices against HRC’s criteria, then help you implement best practices for LGBTQIA+ inclusion.
Working Together
Q: How do we get started?
A: Simply book a free consultation. We’ll talk through your needs, priorities, and the best ways I can support your organization.
Q: Do you work only with nonprofits?
A: While I specialize in nonprofits and mission-driven organizations, I also partner with businesses committed to aligning their culture with their values.
Q: What results can we expect?
A: Clients often see stronger employee engagement, greater trust, more inclusive policies, and measurable progress toward their goals. Many share that workshops and coaching increase awareness, shift culture, and spark lasting change.