It’s human nature to define ourselves by what we do for a living. For many of us, our careers are more than how we spend a part of our day—they can be a source of pride, accomplishment and personal fulfillment. But what about those who struggle to find meaningful employment?
Since its founding in 1947, RPM has been built on the belief that the success of the business is attributed to its people. To this day, it operates with the same simple philosophy: “Hire the best people you can find. Create an atmosphere that will keep them. Then, let them do their jobs.”
The RPM Wood Finishes Group (WFG) recognizes the value of diversity and inclusion in building—and retaining—the best possible workforce in an increasingly competitive market. By implementing a variety of recruitment programs focused on sourcing hires from a pool of highly qualified candidates that is often overlooked, WFG provides these associates with an opportunity not just to work—but to truly excel.
As part of these efforts, WFG has cultivated a five-year partnership with North Carolina’s Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS), a state agency that aims to match qualified candidates with the right employer. Oftentimes, this involves individuals diagnosed with some form of disability that creates a barrier or obstacle to finding successful employment. Over the course of this partnership, WFG has offered employment to eight employees that were referred by the DVRS—all of whom are still with the company today. In fact, the DVRS recently recognized WFG as an “Employer of the Year” for its diversity and inclusion efforts.
One of WFG’s newer partnerships is with Freedom Life Ministries, a non-profit that assists incarcerated individuals with their transition to a new life upon release. The program offers a variety of re-entry and recovery programs designed to provide help with job searches, housing and transportation, as well as access to food, clothing, medical and mental health resources. Over the past year, WFG has employed six hires through its work with Freedom Life.
In addition, WFG partners with the North Carolina Department of Commerce through its Federal Bonding Program, a hiring initiative established by the U.S. Department of Labor to promote equitable hiring by providing fidelity bonds for at-risk, hard-to-place job seekers with criminal records. These bonds cover the first six months of employment at no cost to the job applicant or the employer. Through this program, WFG has helped many individuals leverage their unique skillsets in a career where they can make a positive contribution in the community.
Thank you to WFG for providing our associates with an opportunity to demonstrate their skills, value and work ethic in an environment where these attributes are recognized as an asset.
