Helping members become culturally sensitive by offering quality diversity training
Abstract
Diversity training is a fundamental part of any AmeriCorps or VISTA development program. As many organizations recruit volunteers from throughout the country, the mix of service members and recipients is often quite diverse. This is an ideal opportunity to promote awareness and provide education in diversity and inclusion. This effective practice, submitted by Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory’s (NWREL) Recruitment and Development Initiative (EnCorps) in December 2006, offers resources and tips for finding the right training for your program.Issue
Numerous diversity trainers and programs exist, but it can be challenging to find the one that best fits a specific program.Action
Take the following steps to discover the best trainers and training for your program:
Look at a number of diversity websites to get an idea of available services. Begin with the following:
The Center for Diversity Education
Diversity Training University International
Contact local universities and colleges — many offer diversity education and are a source of potential trainers and resources. Some examples are the University of Oregon's Center on Diversity and Community and the University of Minnesota's Center for Teaching & Learning Services.
Interview possible trainers to gauge the best fit. Things to consider when talking to a potential trainer include the following:
- Does the person have an academic degree?
- Does the person have experience consulting and training for an organization similar to yours?
- Does the person have at least three references that offer positive testimonials?
- Is the person knowledgeable about how organizations work?
- Does the person have a strategy for identifying your organization's needs and can articulate it to you?
- Does the person understand your problem and have experience addressing it?
- Does the person have good verbal and written communications skills?
- Does the person convey an approach that is empathetic towards all groups within the organization?
- Does the person collaborate well with your organization's contact person?
- Does the person provide an evaluation of their services even if your organization does not require one?
Although these questions were formulated from the perspective of a for-profit organization, they are applicable to your nonprofit as well.
Ask for discounts. While many trainers market their services to the for-profit sector and are expensive, they may provide reduced fees or pro bono training for nonprofits.
Context
EnCorps resources carry a field "stamp of approval." Veteran program staff reviewed and recommended these resources for working with AmeriCorps and VISTA members.Citation
EnCorps resources athttp://encorps.nationalserviceresources.org/mt_diversity.php
Outcome
By providing diversity training, programs can help minimize misunderstandings and promote collaboration.Posted On
May 23, 2007For More Information
Resources
Diversity Training University International: Find an Expert Diversity Professional (free referrals)
EnCorps resources at
http://encorps.nationalserviceresources.org/mt_diversity.php