In Part One of this HRTools.com Insight series, I referenced what was, to me, startling information. Poll results, based on a 2008 study conducted by Deloitte and Junior Achievement, showed that 27 percent of teens surveyed think that behaving violently is sometimes, or always, acceptable behavior.
Many Americans, especially employers and business managers, are growing increasingly concerned about the threats of workplace violence. The news reports are alarming and disturbing. And it seems as though these incidences are increasing.
As pointed out, we will soon see these teens entering the workplace. While many American businesses require that employees participate in some form of sensitivity training, I think there also should be intervention at an earlier period in these potential employees’ lives.
While sensitivity training will not totally eradicate the threat of violence, we should evaluate what preventive or precautionary measures can be taken sooner.
How then…where and when do we start?
During my sheltered beginnings and childhood (growing up in a small Midwestern community), almost everyone attended places of worship. In addition to that and home, we acquired our sensitivity training—values and principles—through organizations such as 4-H, scouts, etc. Times have dramatically changed, and this country is becoming more culturally diverse at warp speed. Many children today may not be introduced to any formal sensitivity or diversity training until they become adult employees.
My company encourages volunteerism. Employees are given four paid hours a month, during normal work hours, and they are encouraged to volunteer in their communities. We all have a stake in our communities. We can become more involved with organizations that promote and help sensitize our young people. It is critically important that children, as early as possible, become more aware of diversity and how everyone should treat one another with respect and dignity. Getting this firm foundation at an earlier age can only help.
Junior Achievement is a good place to start and has a long-standing reputation.
One of the organizations my company is involved with is Junior Achievement, and I can also speak from personal experience about this organization.
Almost any American can find a nearby Junior Achievement program at which to volunteer. If not, I’m sure they would accept donations. This worldwide organization is dedicated to educating students about work readiness. Along with numerous other valuable programs in their curriculum, Junior Achievement has a Learn about Ethics program, which is an entire center dedicated to providing related courses of study.
For more information about volunteering opportunities, you may find the following additional online resources helpful:
Volunteer Match
Points of Light