Background
In the summer of 2019, the Community Workforce Inclusion Council (CWIC*) of the Regional Workforce Alliance, whose mission is to champion a robust and diverse workforce that meets the needs of regional employers, discussed the merits of a designation to recognize employers who desire to be more inclusive in their workplace culture and practices.
RWA and CWIC members brought the I-WE concept forward to the Local Workforce Development Boards, who agreed to implement it throughout the 26 counties of the Region 1 planning area. Employers with the designation will be promoted to career seekers throughout the region's 11 CareerForce locations.
I-WE Goal
Reduce disparities and raise awareness of the value of and methods for increasing diversity by creating a designation to recognize and promote inclusive employers
Criteria
1) Express a commitment to an inclusive and equitable workplace in their organization's stated mission, values or policies
2) Assess how diversity, equity & inclusion influence their work / culture
3) Provide diversity, equity & inclusion education for staff & leadership
4) Allocate resources to support and sustain an inclusive and equitable workplace and/or community
