Corridor-based Diversity Focus, a non-profit organization devoted to enhancing the diversity of the Cedar Rapids-Iowa City area, is in the midst of conducting a diversity climate study.

In the coming weeks, telephone interviews will be conducted with 600 people in Linn and Johnson Counties. The study will assess where and how people currently experience diversity and how to encourage individuals, groups and communities to develop a deeper understanding of diversity and its importance. The interview instrument reflects the many areas of diversity encountered in our communities, including age, disability, ethnicity/national origin, race, gender, religion, sexual orientation and socio-economic status. Interviewers will be contacting a random sample of individuals, using demographic targets so as to properly reflect the local population as stated by the U.S. Census. “We hope that people will take the time to share their opinions with interviewers when they call,” said Hazel Pegues, Executive Director, Diversity Focus. “Their input is critical to gauging the climate of diversity in our communities.”

Vernon Research Group will conduct the climate study. “We are pleased to have Vernon Research Group support us in establishing a baseline measure of the diversity climate in the Corridor,” said Pegues. “This research will help us make sure our priorities and efforts are in line with the needs of the communities we represent. In addition, the information will help us in creating and extending a positive environment for job growth in our communities.”

Results of the diversity climate study will be presented to the Diversity Focus board this fall. Diversity Focus exists to promote awareness and acceptance of people from diverse backgrounds, to advance community discussion regarding diversity within the community, and to connect people with resources to help educate the greater community on issues of diversity in the Linn and Johnson County area.