Operating with the belief that diversity benefits the business by bringing together different backgrounds, experiences and viewpoints, Day-Glo actively promotes diversity and inclusion in the workplace through its community outreach programs. Over the years, the company has developed long-standing partnerships with organizations that directly impact the local Northeast Ohio community—particularly those supporting educational development.

One of Day-Glo’s partnerships is with St. Martin de Porres, a college preparatory school in Cleveland that combines an innovative academic approach with unique work-study programs to prepare students of limited economic means for future success. Since joining forces with St. Martin de Porres in 2008, Day-Glo has sponsored four students each year.

As part of this program, students receive a quality education and gain 1,600 hours of hands-on work experience, ultimately improving their chances of acceptance into top-tier colleges. During the academic year, students rotate their schedules to fill the role of a full-time position at Day-Glo. Primary responsibilities include providing support for the sales and marketing department, as well as performing a variety of administrative tasks. Depending on career interests, students can gain hands-on experience in other key business areas as well.

Playing an important and meaningful role at Day-Glo, these students are held to the same standards and expectations as regular employees. Led by Director of Human Resources Leanne Kocian and President Cathie McKinley, the team at Day-Glo provides additional support for its St. Martin de Porres partnership by hosting professional development workshops for the students throughout the year.

In addition, Day-Glo works with several other local organizations focused on enriching the East Cleveland neighborhood, including partnerships with St. Clair Superior Development Corporation and Waterloo Arts. Through these outreach programs, Day-Glo has created a more inclusive work environment, positively impacted the local community and gained a competitive advantage in its workforce recruitment efforts.