Inclusive ICR: Guiding DEI Initiatives in ICR Iowa

Posted March 26, 2024

At Greater Iowa City, Inc., we believe that cultural diversity enriches our community with unique perspectives and a variety of thoughts. This belief spans many areas of our work, including creating a community that welcomes and supports our diverse and vibrant population in the workplace environment.

 

In partnership with organizations across the Iowa City–Cedar Rapids (ICR) region, our team leads Inclusive ICR, a regional initiative fostering Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the ICR workforce. While the majority of current participants represent the Cedar Rapids area, we see an opportunity to grow representation from the unique voices and perspectives of the Iowa City area, which are crucial to building a truly inclusive regional economy.

 

The team at Greater IC is helping plan the Inclusive ICR event on June 19th, which will take place in Iowa City and feature a panel of diverse young professionals from the region. Whether you have attended an Inclusive ICR event in the past or not, Greater IC investors and members are invited to join. For those new to Inclusive ICR, we wanted to highlight more about the Coalition:

 

What does the Inclusive ICR Coalition do?

  1. Help employers launch and strengthen diversity and inclusion strategies: Inclusive ICR is a resource for ICR employers seeking guidance on implementing DEI workforce initiatives, including: Employee Resource Group (ERG) implementation, DEI advisory council development, and connecting staff with colleagues and resources in the ICR region.
  2. Help diverse professionals connect, engage, and thrive: Through coalition members, Inclusive ICR develops, supports, and promotes region-wide networks and resources that allow diverse professionals to connect, engage, and thrive in the ICR region.
  3. Help diverse students connect with employers: At Inclusive ICR, we strive to help our employers develop a more diverse and inclusive workforce by building a pipeline of talent through high school and college internship programs. In partnership with local colleges, universities, and community organizations, we connect employers with resources to build programs and recruit diverse candidates for internship positions.

 

Why should your Iowa City business participate in the Inclusive ICR Coalition?

  • Access a Network of DEI Champions: Connect with like-minded professionals from across the ICR region. Share best practices, learn from each other’s experiences, and collaborate on strategies to attract and retain diverse talent.
  • Invest in Your Future Workforce: Help build a robust pipeline of diverse talent by collaborating with local colleges, universities, and community organizations. Get connected with qualified candidates for internship programs and future full-time positions.
  • Fuel Innovation and Growth: Diversity of thought leads to a more dynamic and innovative workplace. By fostering an inclusive environment, your company can unlock its full potential and attract top talent from all backgrounds.
  • Shape the Future of the ICR Economy: Become a leader in shaping a more inclusive and successful ICR region. Inclusive ICR offers a platform for your voice to be heard and contribute to a shared vision for the future.

 

Who is Inclusive ICR for?

Members of the coalition typically serve in human resource, recruiter, or diversity specialist roles within their companies or represent organizations engaged in diversity and inclusion goals. However, everyone is welcome to join the coalition.

 

How do you join Inclusive ICR?

There are no fees to join the Inclusive ICR coalition. Members will have opportunities for investment of time, talent, or resources through hosted or partnered events throughout the year, as available. These opportunities are entirely at the discretion of the coalition member and do not impact member status. Visit the Inclusive ICR website at https://icriowa.org/inclusive-icr/ to learn more and fill out a short membership form.