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Diversity and Inclusion Council

QWE Practice Guideline: 443 – Implement practices that encourage organizational inclusion

Target group: Any organization employing and/or supporting individuals with disabilities

Practice Description

An internal Diversity and Inclusion council was formed to build and support diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility needs for staff.

Resources Needed

Subject matter experts/trainers

  • Staff with knowledge of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility
  • Staff with networking and leadership skills

Equipment

  • Computers
  • Materials needed for activities, such as conference tables and engagement events

Labor hours

  • Staff volunteer to participate, but can work during their normal hours as able

Implementation Process

Process

  • The council began with a call for volunteers to establish and run the council
  • The council then determined its purpose and the activities it would conduct
  • A council chair was chosen
  • Sub-committees were then formed to manage the council’s activities, such as
    • Strategy: formation of a mission, vision, and goal
    • Administration: membership and document management
    • Communications: monthly newsletter, marketing campaigns
    • STAR: recognition award
    • Roundtables: bi-monthly webinars
    • Book club: focused on book about diversity and inclusion
  • Council activities are offered to all staff
  • The council meets once a month and meeting notes are tracked
    • A meeting agenda is sent out 1 week prior
    • A different council member volunteers to run the meeting each month
  • The sub-committees meet at least once during the month
  • The council collaborates with other departments, like marketing, for some of its activities
  • The council is sponsored by a member of the executive staff
  • An annual report is completed to showcase the council’s efforts and impact

Documentation

  • SOPs
    • Policies and procedures for council operations, including implementation and management of activities
    • Attendance and analytics are gathered to assess the council’s impact
  • Training
    • Council members must complete required company trainings around diversity and inclusion
    • Council members are offered additional trainings through the year

Outcomes/Results

  • Individuals
    • Increased staff morale, opportunities for leadership, opportunities for inclusion
  • Organization
    • Increased ideas, staff engagement, staff empowerment

NPA: SourceAmerica
Location: Vienna, VA
Date Submitted: 2022
Website: https://www.sourceamerica.org/

Resources: Quality Work Environment Workbook