Diversity at VSP
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Diversity as a Corporate ValueThe very core of VSP hinges on the fundamental belief that people come first, and all of our ten corporate values support that belief. One value in particular - "We treat others as they wish to be treated" - truly demonstrates our support of diversity at VSP. This new twist on the old golden rule of "Treat others as you wish to be treated" is no accident. Each of our four publics - employees, providers, clients, and members - have unique talents, services, expectations, and needs, and the embracing of this diversity is an integral part of our corporate culture. We realize this is not an easy task, however, we are up for the challenge! VSP's Diversity Initiative focuses on valuing our differences, as well as our similarities. We strive to create an inclusive environment where all employees - regardless of race, color, age, gender, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, mental or physical disability, veteran status, marital status, or medical condition - are appreciated, treated with respect and dignity to allow them to feel as they are full partners in the company. In doing so, we believe that employees will perform their best work for the company, thereby resulting in legendary service to our providers, clients, and members.
Diversity PolicyVSP is committed to acknowledging and valuing employee differences and to creating an environment in which every individual's unique strengths and abilities are developed and valued. All VSP employees share in the responsibility for creating this environment, and are expected to demonstrate mutual respect and acceptance in the work place. At VSP, we believe that utilizing our employees' uniqueness enhances communication, problem-solving and decision-making skills, thereby improving organizational productivity and performance. We also believe that if our employees mirror the diverse make-up of our communities and our customers, we will be able to better understand, and more effectively respond to, market changes.
Diversity TrainingVSP's diversity awareness training, The Inclusion Workshop (TIW®), is mandatory for all employees. TIW® focuses on each employee's responsibility to contribute to the company's inclusive work environment. Since attending TIW®, employees have renewed their commitment to taking a proactive approach to ensure the work environment is one of inclusiveness.
Equal Employment Opportunity/AffirmativeAction PolicyVSP is an Equal Employment Opportunity Affirmative Action employer. We are committed to the elimination of barriers that restrict the employment opportunities available to women, minorities, and the disabled. We recognize that equal employment opportunity requires affirmative steps to ensure the full utilization of people of all backgrounds who possess the best available skills. VSP provides equal employment opportunities for the good of the public; and on the basis of merit, fitness and industry as established by appropriate tests without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, religious creed, age (for persons 40 and older), mental or physical disability, veteran status, medical condition, marital status, sexual orientation, or pregnancy. Our commitment to equal employment opportunity extends to all job applicants and employees and to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, training, assignment, promotion, compensation, transfer, layoff, reinstatement, benefits, education, tuition assistance, and termination. We affirm our commitment to good faith efforts to attain the goals indicated in the Affirmative Action Plan. We further pledge our support for the objectives of the Affirmative Action Plan and for a work environment free of discrimination. The Affirmative Action Plan will be updated and revised annually in accordance with court interpretations and changes made to the applicable laws and regulations. The goal will be to assure true equal employment opportunity for all.
Diversity CouncilMany perspectives .. one vision. VSP's Diversity Council serves as an information resource and provides input and support on diversity-related programs and activities. Comprised of eleven volunteer representatives from VSP divisions, the members serve as ambassadors in communicating the importance of diversity at VSP. Members serve a two-year term with one-half of the Council replaced each year to maintain fresh, new perspectives while ensuring continuity with the remaining members. Since its inception, the Council has been involved with a variety of activities including creating the concept of a "Division Fair" which allows VSP's 22 divisions to showcase their unique contribution to the company's success; piloting and providing input on the company's diversity awareness/inclusion training before it was rolled out to the rest of the employees; enhancing the company's holiday celebration to include other cultural traditions such as Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Ramadan; and recognizing significant events such as Asian Pacific Heritage Month, Women's History Month, Gay Pride Month, Veterans Day, Healthy Aging, etc.
Work/Life BalanceVSP's diverse workforce requires providing diverse options for employees to meet today's challenges of work/life balance. For VSP, this includes:
Workforce DemographicsOf VSP's 2,000-plus employee population:
Honors & RecognitionAs an employer of choice, VSP is proud of its designation on the following lists:
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