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Topics sought for brown-bag diversity programs

ITD’s noontime diversity programs have covered much cultural ground since Ronald Sam began the series with a presentation of dance, flute and eagle-feather storytelling the summer of 2011.

More brown-bag lunch programs are coming, and Senior Human Resource Specialist Michelle George wants to hear from people about topics they would like future programs to cover.

“These presentations allow each of us to understand, value and celebrate our differences, as well as all that we share in common,” George explained. “Diversity is about learning from others who are not the same, about dignity and respect for all.”

People have learned how to improve their cross-cultural communication skills, understand and manage a “buffalo in the workplace” like cultural diversity with motivational speaker Vincent Kituku, and discuss the challenges that returning veterans and their families face when military deployments end.

Employees met JJ, Sadie and Brinks, service dogs specially trained to assist people with disabilities perform simple tasks, be more mobile or maintain better blood sugar control. Other service dogs are specifically trained to respond to Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Representatives from Artisans4Hope, a nonprofit organization, showed how needle and thread helps displaced people learn sewing, knitting and English-language skills. Nanna Hatchett, with Idaho Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (IDVR), talked about helping individuals with disabilities return to work or obtain employment.

For more information about the department’s diversity initiatives or to suggest a topic for future brown-bag lunch programs contact George at 7-8845 or e-mail her at michelle.george@itd.idaho.gov.