Diversity and Inclusion are important, added benefits of Community Involvement and Social Responsibility. The concept of diversity and inclusion refers to the unique group of people that make up the workforce in general, which in turn applies to your respective workforce.

These interconnected concepts make up the team members of a company and allows them to work together as equally valued contributors to the firm. Workplaces that prioritize diversity and inclusion efforts have been statistically proven to be safer, more enjoyable, and more productive places to work. 

A diverse team is reflective of the society in which it exists and operates. Diversity is generally defined by gender, race, age, etc. In the workplace, diversity generally means that the workforce is made up of employees with different races, gender identities, career backgrounds, skills, and other measures. (HUD defines diversity as a workforce with different backgrounds and national origins). Diversity has proven to make communities and workplaces more productive, tolerant, and welcoming. Non diverse companies are twenty (29) percent less likely to earn above average profits than their diverse counterparts.

Improving diversity and inclusion is important and necessary in the workforce and within most companies.  Many company leaders adhere to the CEO Action for Diversity and Inclusion Pledge.  The pledge focuses on commitments towards more open conversations towards diversity and inclusion, expanding unconscious bias training and having a strategic plan of action for all Diversity and Inclusion efforts.

Diversity and Inclusion work hand in hand with community involvement and social responsibility. The solutions for both efforts are truly intertwined and having these respective efforts working together will improve the work environment and company culture. In a diverse and inclusive culture, all individuals are treated fairly and respectfully, have equal access to opportunities and resources, and can contribute fully to the company’s success. Diversity, inclusion, community involvement and social responsibility lead to a better more cohesive team, company loyalty and profitability, and competitive advantage.