iBi - January 2010

Like the rest of the country, the Peoria area has seen significant increases in the Latino population—the nation’s largest minority group.

Women are now half of the U.S. workforce, and women-owned businesses contribute nearly $3 trillion per year to the U.S. economy.

Probably very few of us would deliberately bring forth an issue that many would consider uncomfortable, controversial or even stressful to discuss.

A principal reason that employers hesitate to hire workers with disabilities is simply a lack of education on the subject.

One might think that access to higher education in 2009 is limited only by a student’s grades, determination and ability to piece together funds, grants and scholarships to pay tuition and book expenses. Think again!

Many companies don’t know how to handle an aging workforce, and older workers are finding it difficult to compete with younger workers.

Unleveled playing fields and a lack of access are maddening realities that have impacted livelihoods and entrepreneurial endeavors for generations.

Women now make up more than 45 percent of unionized workers. By 2020, they will be the majority of union workers.

The MBE Committee's mission is to create an environment that stimulates greater participation from all parts of the community with particular emphasis on new and minority-owned businesses.

A welcoming and diverse workplace where all employees feel empowered and supported in their career goals is the best way to attract quality employees—and the best way to keep them.

Diversity is often mistaken for a purely social and moral issue, but this viewpoint neglects to account for a much larger truth. Diversity in the workforce must be recognized as a competitive edge and a business opportunity, especially in today’s globally influenced economy.

Female Marines from Combat Logistics Battalion 7, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward), have been participating in civil affairs missions with the Civil Affairs Group 10, 2nd Marine Division in various cities surrounding Camp Korean Village, Iraq.