Cargo Transporters has launched a new driver recruiting and retention initiative called the Acres of Diamonds… Focus on Home Program that will allow drivers to be closer to home when they finish a shift or have downtime in their schedules.

With Acres of Diamonds…Focus on Home, Cargo Transporters aims to make it possible for drivers to get home in less time when their shift ends or to stay home for a few more hours before reporting to work. In addition, if there is a schedule change or scheduled vehicle maintenance, drivers who live closer to a terminal can go home and relax with their families.

To accomplish this, Cargo Transporters is offering a $2,500 bonus to employees who refere drivers located near its North Carolina terminal locations in Claremont, Rocky Mount and Charlotte.The initiative is designed to help Cargo Transporters lower its 42% turnover rate.

“We believe that drivers who live in or near our terminal communities are more likely to stay with the company,” said Jerry Sigmon,Jr., COO at Cargo Transporters. “Just as importantly, the recruiting and retention campaign reflects our corporate culture that has always embraced the importance of focusing on home, family and community. By carrying that same way of thinking over to our drivers we know they will be more likely to stay with us.”

The Acres of Diamonds name refers to a motivational lecture by Russel Conwell, a public speaker from the 1800s who spoke about the misfortunes of seeking opportunities elsewhere instead of focusing on one’s own backyard.

“Acres of Diamonds was mentioned by one of our drivers in an employee survey,” said Sigmon. “As soon as we heard its message about being open to the opportunities that are around us, we knew we needed to quit focusing on a national level and focus on hiring locally.”