Diversity always has been a driving force behind all of the HLNA enterprises. The company is quite proud that the workforce at each location reflects the ethnicity of the surrounding neighborhoods.

HLNA has initiated programs to educate potential employees on the responsibilities of gainful employment. The company often trains new employees on the proper work ethic needed to obtain as well as maintain gainful employment. With the company's help, people previously considered unemployable are now gainfully employed.

Whether it is the African American majority at the company’s Joy Road facility or the Middle Eastern majority at its Dearborn facility, HLNA ensures the workforce mirrors the local community. While many of the people are highly skilled and educated, the American way of life can be totally new, and for some, hard to understand. HLNA has worked closely with local community leaders to develop programs and educational opportunities for HLNA employees.

Hollingsworth Logistics Group obtained a grant from the State of Michigan to implement this educational program. A core curriculum was derived from the input of company employees and management. The company then sought a partnership with Henry Ford Community College in Dearborn to coordinate training. Trainers were selected from both the internal employee pool as well as outside sources.

In February, 2002, the first class under the Hollingsworth University banner was taught by a member of the MIOSHA Education Division. Since that initial class, more than 80% of the company’s workforce has been trained in the core curriculum.

Hollingsworth University, in partnership with Dearborn Public Schools has teamed up to teach English Second Language classes. Employees may attend the ESL classes prior to their scheduled shift or after their scheduled shift. Hollingsworth University Board Members were presented with the Business Partner of Adult and Community Education Awards December 2001. Many managers have assisted with the English Second Language classes by volunteering their time tutoring. Dearborn Public Schools recognized Hollingsworth Logistics Group with an award, ESL Literacy Volunteers Recognition.

Serving the local community has always been a quiet pleasure for HLNA. The company has often provided needy, local schools with transportation for special events and field trips. Whether it’s food or camping equipment for children, financial support for schools or making a wish come true, HLNA has quietly found a way to be of service. The company generously makes its assets available to help in times of need.

HLNA also supports its employees’ charitable efforts as well. The largest of HLNA companies, Hollingsworth Logistic Group, developed a program called “Helping Hands” in 1997. This program continually raises money through employee contributions and company sponsored funds to support local charities. The “Helping Hands” program has donated money to Save our Sons and Daughters, St. Leo’s Soup Kitchen, The Alternative Home for Girls, ACCESS and the local hospice. In addition to organized charities, the “Helping Hands” program has donated money to individual families within the local community who have experienced major hardships such as fire and theft.

More recently, HLNA has become actively involved in the Michigan Works Youth Program. This program allows low-income youth of Wayne County to gain vocational experience through the Hollingsworth Logistics Group. The youngsters work under the guidance of a professional mentor within the company to help them develop positive work skills and habits. This training not only prepares young people for a successful career, but also helps instill a sense of pride in their work.

Chairman and CEO, Steve Barr, is an active board member of the Native American Business Alliance. Participating in the decision making of the organization as an active board member, Barr also opens the doors of his corporations for the mentorship of aspiring Native American entrepreneurs. He enjoys guiding young Native Americans as they attempt to become a viable part of the American economy.

Barr was named the Michigan Minority Business Development Council's "Humanitarian of the Year in 2004"

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