Hampton Roads Business Outreach (HRBOR) is hosting a seminar on “How to Attract and Retain Talent through Diversity And Inclusion” on September 19 from 3-5 PM at the Founders Inn and Spa in Virginia Beach. This session is designed help local small businesses, non-profits, and government agencies learn more about creating a diversity and inclusion policy for hiring and retaining employees.
The seminar will be conducted by Julie Woodard, president of Woodard & Associates, LLC, a Hampton Roads-based human resources management firm, and and Aleea Slappy, the City of Norfolk’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer.
Diversity and inclusion policies are becoming commonplace in many workplaces as current and potential employees from minority communities actively seek workplaces where they feel welcomed and included in a safe environment.
Founded in 2006, HRBOR is Hampton Roads’ LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce, the oldest such organization in Virginia and a leader in the local effort to make businesses aware of the need for such policies. President Christian Strange said, “Employees in inclusive environments feel appreciated for their unique characteristics and therefore comfortable sharing their ideas and other aspects of their true and authentic selves. That’s vital to the overall well-being and productivity of any business or organization.”
“The fact of the matter is that our businesses derive strength from the diversity of its population and from its commitment to equal opportunity for all,” said Woodard. “We are at our best when we draw on the talents of all parts of our society, and our greatest accomplishments are achieved when diverse perspectives are brought to bear to overcome our greatest challenges.”
The seminar is open to all business owners, human resources managers, government agencies, non-profit officers, and others with a desire to learn more about implementing a policy at their workplace. The seminar will be followed by a networking event which all attendees are invited to attend.
Admission $35 in advance or at the door. Purchase your seat before August 23 and receive a $10 discount.
The seminar is sponsored by Dominion Energy, a Fortune 500 company with a well-established and robust diversity and inclusion policy.
