Creating a truly inclusive workplace, where diversity and inclusion thrive, is not just a goal, it’s essential to building a positive and respectful company culture. This WorkingNation film takes a close look at two California businesses – Common Corners Brewing and Little Elephants – that embarked on a journey to embrace disability inclusion as a key part of their hiring practices. What started with hesitation and uncertainty transformed into a powerful commitment that reshaped their workforce and their entire approach to business.
Like many companies, Common Corners Brewing and Little Elephants didn’t initially prioritize disability inclusion. They had concerns about the potential risks, costs, and how it might impact other employees. But as they continued to grow, they began to see the undeniable value of an inclusive workforce. Embracing individuals with disabilities brought new perspectives, talents, and opportunities to strengthen their businesses and build a truly collaborative workplace.
Although these companies didn’t use the California Employing Abilities at Work Program – powered by the SHRM Foundation and the California Department of Rehabilitation (CA DOR) – their experiences align with the goals of this initiative. The California Employing Abilities at Work Certificate offers businesses tools and resources to implement effective disability inclusion strategies, the kind of transformation that Common Corners Brewing and Little Elephants naturally discovered in their own journey.
In this film, the owners of Common Corners Brewing and Little Elephants share their insights, speaking candidly about the challenges they faced and the tremendous benefits they’ve experienced from building a workplace where all talents, including those of individuals with disabilities, are welcomed and valued. Their stories demonstrate that an inclusive workplace isn’t just about doing the right thing – it’s about building a stronger, more resilient, and innovative company culture.
If your California company is interested in learning more about disability inclusion and earning the California Employing Abilities at Work Certificate, visit this link for more information.