FORT SHAFTER-- The 8th Theater Sustainment Command Equal Opportunity Advisors took a different approach to delivering their quarterly EO training by conducting a scavenger hunt, incorporating physical fitness and teamwork to educate the command on EO policies and resources.
"The focus for the scavenger hunt was to provide a more diverse training atmosphere that would allow team building efforts as well as mass participation," said Master Sgt. Nonya Webb, 8th TSC Equal Opportunity Advisor.
Soldiers assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 8th Special Troops Battalion, 8th TSC conducted the training, here, July 2. They were divided into teams of ten personnel, racing to eight different points where they were quizzed on three EO related topics at each point.
EO's goal is to maximize human potential and ensure fair treatment based on merit, fitness, and capability. The EO program helps create and sustain effective units by eliminating discriminatory behaviors or practices that undermine teamwork, mutual respect, loyalty, and shared sacrifices of the men and women of America's Army.
The 8th TSC EO Office provides guidance to the Commanding General regarding EO issues. Their office also handles complaints dealing with six basis of discrimination: race, color, religion, national origin, gender and sexual orientation.
According to Lt. Col. Letitia Bryant, 8th TSC EO Program Manager, many organizational challenges stem from ineffective communication.
"Not all but many of the issues we see can be handled with effective communication through the use of a neutral party," said Bryant. "Use us as your neutral party, we are available to conduct training and focus groups for your section if needed."
Each member of the 8th TSC EO team is a certified mediator. EOAs are also responsible for protecting the EO complaint process and remaining impartial.
The event closed with winning teams announced and a review of key topics.
"This was a way for us to get insight into how much our Soldiers have learned throughout the year," said Staff Sgt. Vanessa Dumas, Equal Opportunity Leader for HHC, 8th STB, 8th TSC. "This was a great refresher and good tool for our Soldiers"
EO plays an important role in unit readiness and morale. The way Soldiers are treated directly impacts their performance and an organization's climate.
"EO is very important," said Dumas. "I believe that everyone should put special emphasis on the program similar to all other programs in the Army."
Social Sharing