MiWorkforce Alliance

In 2023, AAoM, in partnership with the Corporation for a Skilled Workforce, launched an extensive research effort examining the landscape of disability employment in Michigan and across the nation. The results led to AAoM establishing a statewide coalition with the goal of positioning Michigan as a model state for inclusive employment by addressing systemic barriers, promoting inclusive hiring practices, and fostering collaboration among various stakeholders in the employment ecosystem. The work of the coalition is  a multi-pronged approach centered around creating systemic change, increasing employer engagement, and promoting inclusive employment practices through education, policy, and coalition-building for greater collective impact.

 

One area of focus within the coalition is promoting scalable inclusive hiring practices to increase competitive employment opportunities for people with disabilities in Michigan. As part of this work, AAoM sought out a partner with a shared commitment and deep mission alignment around advancing disability inclusion within businesses, removing barriers to employment for people with disabilities, and elevating businesses to be an employer of choice for individuals with disabilities. Given our aligned missions centered around employer engagement and commitment to hire people with disabilities, AAoM has launched a strategic collaboration with the Center for Disability Inclusion (CDI), a nationwide organization with a 15 year history as a trusted resource for workplace solutions for disability inclusion.

CDI partners with businesses to advance their disability inclusion efforts in the workplace, marketplace and beyond. CDI simplifies the path to disability inclusion with practical tools, expert guidance, tailored strategic plans and a hands-on approach that integrates your disability inclusion efforts with your company's goals to achieve meaningful impact that aligns with the company's values. CDI fosters relationships between businesses, community service providers, academic and strategic partners to enhance their disability inclusion. Like AAoM, their ultimate goal is breaking down barriers, promoting accessibility, equipping employers with knowledge and resources while advancing equity in employment.

Learn More About CDI

There are many ways companies can engage with CDI's network and expertise that customizes their disability inclusion journey.

[Image description: Four blue and green circles numbered one through four, with descriptions of Center for Disability Inclusion's core offerings in blue text, "#1 Community Connections: Monthly network meetings, gain insights and connections at our annual Disability Inclusion Summit, partnership collaboration opportunities. #2, Training and Development: Tailored training and consultation, regular webinars on key disability topics, and all CDI content is certified for SHRM learning credits. #3, Leadership and Recognition: Industry recognition for leadership in disability inclusion, eligibility for the Seal of Accomplishment, and access to our Leader in Disability Inclusion Process Playbook. #4, Access and Opportunity: Connect with disabled candidates via C.D.I. Job Connection, connect with community organizations serving people with disabilities, further resources to advance disability inclusion goals.
[Image description: Four blue and green circles numbered one through four, with descriptions of Center for Disability Inclusion's core offerings in blue text, "#1 Community Connections: Monthly network meetings, gain insights and connections at our annual Disability Inclusion Summit, partnership collaboration opportunities. #2, Training and Development: Tailored training and consultation, regular webinars on key disability topics, and all CDI content is certified for SHRM learning credits. #3, Leadership and Recognition: Industry recognition for leadership in disability inclusion, eligibility for the Seal of Accomplishment, and access to our Leader in Disability Inclusion Process Playbook. #4, Access and Opportunity: Connect with disabled candidates via C.D.I. Job Connection, connect with community organizations serving people with disabilities, further resources to advance disability inclusion goals.

The strategic collaboration with CDI will enhance the work being led by AAoM through their statewide disability employment coalition in several ways:

Increased expertise within the business community and a greater scope of disability centric content provided to Michigan employer partners.

An elevated level of recognition,  esteemed credibility both regionally and nationally, and brand recognition through partnership with CDI and participation in their programming.

Opportunity to partner with CDI and utilize associated benefits which may include participation in the Leader in Disability Inclusion Process™ and to be eligible to be awarded the annual Seal of Accomplishment that recognizes CDI partners on their annual progress in disability inclusion efforts.

Participation in established processes that support employers in their commitment to increase disability inclusion efforts that influence increased employment and retention rates among disabled individuals.

Laurel Buck, Statewide Employment Advocacy Leader for AAoM understands the needs of Michigan employers. She is integrating into the CDI team to bring her expertise to their partner network, and to expand their services in Michigan.  As a CDI team member, she will support employer partners through individualized consultation, extensive educational and networking opportunities where businesses can share best practices for inclusion. Laurel will be lending her experience in workforce development, human resources, and disability inclusion to enrich the offerings available through CDI while supporting Michigan based employers throughout their educational journey.

 

Is your business ready to explore ways to engage with AAoM and CDI to drive disability inclusion forward? Find out how seamless it can be. 

 

Check out the various ways to partner with us to advance your disability inclusion options

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Have questions or want more information?

MiWorkforce Alliance Contact Form

MiWorkforce Alliance Contact Form

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