Empowering Accessibility and Opportunity: UNFI and DREAM BIG Celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month
October 22, 2024 2 minute read
With over 1 billion people worldwide living with disabilities, UNFI is dedicated to creating a more accessible and equitable workplace that supports associates in reaching their full potential so we all Win Together. DREAM BIG, UNFI's Disability Belonging and Innovation Group, brings together associates with disabilities, caregivers, allies, and advocates to create community and advocate for disability inclusion practices throughout the company.
This year, DREAM focused on enhancing digital accessibility by creating a comprehensive Digital Accessibility Toolkit, which includes guides, instructional videos, and best practices to improve our virtual workplace. Additionally, the group hosted focus sessions to boost productivity through body doubling, a practice that helps people with ADHD to improve focus, and organized panel discussions to address the unique needs of caregivers and individuals with disabilities.
With the support of DREAM’s efforts, UNFI earned a top score of 100 on the Disability Equality Index in 2024. It’s our third consecutive year achieving this honor, reflecting our commitment to advancing disability inclusion.
To mark Disability Employment Awareness Month this October, DREAM has shared several valuable resources like “Disability Etiquette” and “Inclusion 101” to help all associates contribute to a more inclusive workplace. The group has also highlighted upcoming disability-focused events and a mentorship program by Disability: IN, where college students and recent graduates with disabilities are paired with mentors from leading companies.
As we recognize Disability Employment Awareness Month, we are proud to spotlight some of UNFI’s DREAM BIG members, celebrating their talents, stories, and contributions as we continue working toward greater access to good jobs for all.
Lyn Morgan – Sr. Director of Human Resources
Q: What inspired you to join DREAM BIG?
A: “I have family members who identify as having a disability, and I also identify as someone with a disability. Advocating for people with disabilities is important to me, and DREAM has helped me become a better advocate and ally. DREAM has also helped me better understand various disabilities and how we can best support people at work.”
Gary Dufault – Labor Relations Projects Manager
Q: How has being part of DREAM BIG impacted your professional journey?
A: “Being part of DREAM BIG has opened my eyes to how I can be more inclusive of associates with disabilities. The digital toolkit has been a great resource, and two examples that have stood out include using closed captioning during orientation and designing presentations and trainings to be more accessible.”
Kristy Grubbs – Professional Services Sales and Marketing Manager
Q: What does 'Good Jobs For All' mean to you?
A: 'Good jobs for all' means all good work gets rewarded, and we are striving to create a work environment that is inclusive, diverse, and supportive. It starts with active listening and open dialogue, including asking about strengths, interests, and abilities.
Lori Kelso – Sr. Director of Human Resources
Q: How can employers better recognize the unique talents of individuals with disabilities?
A: “Employers can continue to improve by having meaningful conversations with associates to better understand their challenges and potential accommodations. There are so many creative solutions, like schedule changes, providing assistive devices, and rethinking how we deliver training that allows individuals with disabilities to be a part of the workforce.”