Working With Employers to Increase Disability Inclusiveness

The Northeast ADA Center (NEADA) is helping employers develop disability inclusive practices and implement the ADA through a program called Just-in-Time (JIT). The program has two parts: 1) building a core group of champions on disability issues within the organization; and 2) disseminating an online Tool kit based on real-life disability situations and dilemmas encountered by managers.  Employers have responded enthusiastically, often making significant changes after only a single consultation. For example, three companies (one in the financial industry, one in healthcare, and one international research institute), changed the wording and content of their accommodation policies after consulting with us. In addition, one of our technology and global security clients (a large Federal subcontractor) took steps to ensure that their disability employee resource group was welcoming to veterans with disabilities with PTSD and/or TBI.  And several JIT client companies reviewed their diversity/inclusion policies to ensure that disability is fully represented. For more information about the JIT program, contact the NEADA Center at www.northeastada.org or email northeastada@cornell.edu.