In recent years, a growing number of leaders have taken steps to increase diversity, equity and inclusion within their organizations. In addition to the benefits of having a wider range of opinions and experiences to inform business decisions, a more diverse workforce is able to develop products and services that truly cater to the communities being served.

Successfully implementing inclusive initiatives takes considerable effort, but the results both within and outside of the organization are worthwhile. Below, 11 Forbes Nonprofit Council members share effective ways nonprofit organizations can ensure leadership and staff are diverse, inclusive and culturally competent.

  1. Begin At The Top
  2. Conduct An Internal Culture Assessment
  3. Create Guiding Core Values
  4.  Embed Inclusion In The Organization’s Foundation
  5. Set Targets For Recruitment And Retention
  6. Own Your Commitments And Failures
  7. Hire A DEI Expert
  8. Actively Recruit Diverse Talent
  9. Engage With The Communities Being Served
  10. Provide Opportunities To Gain New Experiences And Skills
  11. Prioritize Fairness

Read the full article about inclusive nonprofit organization at Forbes.