About 20% of the U.S. adult population have a diagnosed disability.
And every year, nearly 50,000 individuals diagnosed with ASD turn 18.
How do we maximize the professional talents of everyone, despite perceived limitations?
Individuals with disabilities (IWDs) present unique talents that are competitive and desirable skills in the workplace. However, the hiring process and accommodations that may be needed by individuals with disabilities (notably, ASD) may present a unique set of challenges for employers, calling up employers to be a little more flexible and creative. In turn, many employers may feel overwhelmed by these challenges due to a lack of understanding the full scope of supportive resources available. In an effort to shed light on the opportunity and viability of hiring IWDs, this website provides deeper insight to how companies can successfully integrate individuals with disabilities, particularly those with autism.
What cultural philosophies, strategies, and resources are important to successfully include IWDs in your team?
- What is inclusion culture?
- What are the benefits of hiring IWDs, such as those with ASD?
- What are some guidelines about disclosure?
- How can you measure success?
- Who do large corporations partner with to further their diversity and inclusion objectives?
MY STORY
I've spent the majority of my personal and professional life dedicated to the inclusion of individuals with life threatening illnesses, diagnosed disabilities and those experiencing homelessness. I strive to empower their strengths and confidence as a way for them to assert themselves as a valuable player in society. I have been both on the receiving and providing end of social services and though those experiences, I have cultivated the core values of my work ethic. My values of meaningful human relationships, maximizing self worth, and passion for diverse perspectives align with the values of inclusion. I have come across profound insights about these values and I continue to seek opportunities to actualize them into events, programs and research that will positively impact society.
