June 2018 NPFM Meeting: Developing an Affirmative Action Plan (and Why You Should)

Do you know what an Affirmative Action Program is?  Many folks confuse having non-discrimination policies with having an Affirmative Action Program.  Many don’t realize that a written Affirmative Action Plan sets specific targets for recruitment, hiring and advancement, tracks progress data, and must be updated regularly.

Often nonprofit organizations undertake “Diversity” or “Equity and Inclusion” initiatives and would benefit from following a structured, data-driven, and comprehensive approach.  Affirmative actions include training programs, outreach efforts, and other positive steps. These procedures should be incorporated into the company’s written personnel policies.  For those receiving federal funds, affirmative action must be taken by covered employers to recruit and advance qualified minorities, women, persons with disabilities, and covered veterans.

Virginia Capezio, a Senior Human Resource Consultant with TriNet (a professional employer organization) presented to our group.  Virginia is considered to be TriNet’s expert on Affirmative Action.