Last month, the Castro Valley/Eden Area Chamber of Commerce and Castro Valley Adult School's Strides Paid Internship Program/Strides PIP partnered with Behavior Pivot Consulting to talk about the benefits of h
iring individuals with disabilities within the workforce. This presentation emphasized the advantages, both personal and professional, for employers who create an inclusive workspace accommodating individuals with physical or cognitive disabilities
It was remarkable to see the extent to which local businesses have embraced the opportunity to hire the students of the Strides PIP program. This initiative provides paid internship work for students by facilitating placement in employment roles in the community. There is no expense to the employers to hire the students; instead, it serves as an excellent way for these companies to gain insight into working with and supporting employees with disabilities.
Disabilities can be both visible and invisible, each presenting unique challenges for employers as they strive to comprehend how to effectively provide opportunities or accommodations. Working with programs such as the Strides PIP helps in the process of finding the right fit between prospective interns and employers. It focuses on the strengths and abilities of the intern instead of any limitations, leading to unique and innovative matches. The program also offers job coaching and staff members who support the interns with supplemental education.
There are vast benefits to both individuals and society as a whole when employment pathways are created for all. It promotes independence, creates social networks, contributes to social advancement and boosts overall economic advantages. While it is reported that 90% of companies claim to prioritize diversity and inclusion, only 4% consider disability as a diversity factor, according to the World Economic Forum. However, research suggests that businesses that embrace inclusive hiring and retention practices are twice as likely to meet or surpass financial targets, six times more likely to demonstrate innovation and agility, and eight times more likely to achieve favorable business outcomes.
Embracing inclusivity in the workforce strengthens communities and drives broader prosperity for society as a whole. Programs like the Strides PIP are a perfect example of one way to accomplish these goals, but there are a multitude of other options as well.
If you are an employer looking to find ways that you can offer more inclusive opportunities or if you are an individual who is looking for employment, reach out to us at Behavior Pivot to learn more.
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