Having a workforce composed of individuals who reflect the diverse nature of our community will provide tangible evidence to our customers that we are capable of responding effectively to their unique product and service needs. Our Employee Values speak to our commitment to promoting an environment that encourages all members of our team to reach their full potential. To fulfill this commitment, our organization must be recognized as a place where employees of all races, genders, religions, cultures, sexual orientation and physical abilities can reach their fullest potential. As an organization, we must provide career development and growth opportunities to all our employees. As individuals, we must all be willing and able to work closely and cooperatively in diverse workgroups and embrace the ideas and contributions of others.
Diversity is also simply good business.
We have developed a number of programs and initiatives to help us improve the diversity of our workforce, increase outreach efforts in all areas of the community, and increase our use of small and disadvantaged local businesses. We will continue to expand and improve each of these efforts in the future. A progressive organization that encourages the best from each of us will be better equipped to thrive in the fast-paced competitive environment of the future. I am firmly committed to our diversity initiatives and I look forward to working with all members of our team to insure the success of our business and the fulfillment of our commitments to our customers, our community and our employees.