Get to Know LGBTQ&A President Ben Parmentier
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The County has 10 great Employee Resource Groups (ERG). They are each led by respective presidents who all demonstrate commitment and stewardship of its members to the various sectors of our community.
Get to know our Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer & Allies ERG President Ben Parmentier, a health policy and planning specialist with Behavioral Health Services:
Q: How long have you worked for the County and what departments have you worked for?
A: I’ve worked for the County for 5 years, in the Auditor & Controller as well as Behavioral Health Services departments.
Q: What do you do in your role/what are your job responsibilities?
A: I’m responsible for special projects, legislation, and writing assignments in the Clinical Director’s Office of Behavioral Health. I’m currently working on many exciting capital projects and collaborations with community partners to improve service delivery and ensure those who need our services remain continuously connected to care.
Q: What are three words that best describe you?
A: Eager, curious, and zesty!
Q: What do you do in your free time?
A: I enjoy playing with my pup, reading, and cooking new dishes
Q: Tell us about your ERG.
A: The LGBTQ&Allies ERG is in its eighth year, and has dozens of members from across many County departments. Lately we haven’t been able to meet in person, but we’ve enjoyed hikes, resource fairs, bowling, and lunch-and-learns together. Our happy hours are our most well-attended events.
Q: Why are ERGs important?
A: ERGs foster a sense of community within the County. They enable connections between employees based on more than just accomplishing a work task, so it allows for deep and personal relationships to be built. ERGs also play an important role in advocating for their constituencies, and organizing around various causes, which align with their mission and vision for the County of San Diego.
Q: What is your favorite part of being a member of your ERG?
A: My favorite part of being a member is knowing I was able to help the County begin to publicly acknowledge and celebrate Pride. Pride is a powerful and emotional celebration for the LBGTQ community, and seeing the Pride flag fly at the CAC last year was incredibly affirming and rewarding.
Q: What are some resources that you find useful and recommend to others?
A: I’ve found there is more information in the many corners of InSite than first meets the eye, if you are curious like me and poke around! I’ve also always stopped to read departmental bulletin boards, followed county social media accounts, and signed up for distribution lists, out of habit. This helps me find events and opportunities I can share with others or enjoy myself.
Q: Who can participate in your ERG and how can employees join?
A: Our ERG is open to anyone who is interested. Membership forms can be found on the ERG page of InSite, or folks can contact LGBTA@sdcounty.ca.gov for more information.
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