The Inclusive Impact Institute is hosting its first conference Thursday on the campus of Columbia College.
The Columbia-based nonprofit is gathering with educators, advocates and business leaders to work to overcome bias and build inclusive and diverse communities here.
Director Nikki McGruder says the organization works with Columbia business leaders, corporate partners, the Regional Economic Development Inc. and the University of Missouri's Division of Inclusion, Diversity & Equity.
"Our community needs to know that we have dedicated professionals and dedicated resources in our community to help them deal with these different issues that you see across the country," she said. "So we're doing the work."
The Institute's conference takes place Thursday until 5 p.m.
