What Are the Different Types of Employee Resource Groups?

Employee resource groups (ERGs) are groups within companies that bring together employees with shared backgrounds, identities, or interests to foster a supportive community. ERGs play a crucial role in building connections, promoting inclusion, and driving diversity within a company. Many companies establish ERGs to help create a positive, inclusive workplace culture where everyone feels they belong.

Employee resource groups are often part of a company’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, which work together to support ERG success. DEI and CSR efforts align naturally with ERGs by connecting employees, supporting diverse communities, and making a positive impact both within and outside the company. Below are some of the most common types of employee resource groups we see across companies, which have shown success when paired with DEI and CSR initiatives.

Types of employee resource groups

Black Employee Resource Groups

Black employee resource groups support Black employees by providing a space for connection, growth, and empowerment. The primary mission of these groups is often to foster a supportive community where Black employees feel represented and valued.

Latinx and Hispanic Employee Resource Groups

These ERGs celebrate Latinx and Hispanic cultures, creating a supportive space for employees of Latinx or Hispanic descent. They often work to promote cultural understanding and provide mentorship and networking opportunities within the organization.

Women’s Employee Resource Groups

Women’s ERGs focus on gender equality, career advancement, and professional growth for women. These groups provide support, mentorship, and networking opportunities that empower women to succeed and take on leadership roles within the company.

Veterans Employee Resource Groups

Veterans ERGs support military veterans and their families, helping them transition to civilian careers and feel valued within the workplace. They provide a supportive community for veterans and often focus on career growth, mentorship, and community service.

Disability Employee Resource Groups

These ERGs work to create a more accessible and inclusive workplace for employees with disabilities. The mission of disability employee resource groups is often to raise awareness about accessibility issues, provide support for employees with disabilities, and foster understanding across the company.

Pride Employee Resource Groups

Pride ERGs support LGBTQ+ employees and allies. These groups create a safe and welcoming space, promote awareness of LGBTQ+ issues, and advocate for equality and inclusion within the workplace.

Asian Employee Resource Groups

Asian ERGs support employees of Asian descent, focusing on celebrating Asian cultures and addressing the unique challenges facing Asian communities. These groups foster understanding and inclusion and provide a platform for personal and professional growth.

Mental Health Employee Resource Groups

Mental health ERGs provide a safe space for employees to discuss mental health openly and reduce stigma. They often focus on promoting mental wellness, sharing resources, and supporting employees in managing stress and mental health challenges.

Parent Employee Resource Groups

Parent ERGs support working parents by offering resources, networking, and a sense of community. These groups help employees balance family and work responsibilities and connect with others facing similar challenges.

Here are employee resource group name ideas and logos to help inspire your ERG with creative and impactful options.

How Percent Pledge Supports Employee Resource Groups

Percent Pledge supports employee resource groups in many ways, helping them thrive and achieve their goals. One of the most successful ways we do this is through Community Volunteer Events. These events, aligned with Cause Awareness Months, provide ERGs with meaningful opportunities to bring their communities together, engage with allies, and make a positive impact.

For example, during Pride Month, we organized a community volunteer event that connected Pride ERGs and allies from various companies. This event allowed LGBTQ+ employees and allies to work together on an impactful project supporting the LGBTQ+ community. Participants left feeling inspired and more connected, having made a tangible difference alongside their colleagues and allies.

Percent Pledge offers comprehensive support to employee resource groups, from organizing community events to helping ERGs align with company-wide CSR goals. We’re here to help ERGs grow, build strong communities, and drive lasting positive change.