This Tool Kit will assist community organizations in becoming more equitable, diverse and inclusive than they are at present. The purpose of this Tool Kit is to support diversity and improve inclusion within small to mid-sized, volunteer-based, not-for-profit organizations. It provides the necessary foundation for community organizations to develop a “”critical lens”” which will allow them to reflect on their organization’s current position and respond effectively to ensure that they reflect local demographics. The suggestions offered will enable community organizations to develop and adapt initiatives that are appropriate to their individual circumstances. The Tool Kit includes: Concrete suggestions for getting started regardless of organizational capacity; A self-assessment tool to examine current policies, procedures and/or structures; A step-by-step process and action plan for planning an organizational change process to increase inclusion; Tips on implementing and evaluating the action plan; Indicators for measuring success; and; A list of resources and contacts for further assistance. File 1 of 4 – Table of Contents, Preface & Introduction, Section I: Understanding Diversity and Inclusion
