My Journey
Hello there! Rachael here. I'm an avid learner who learned about disability inclusivity because I had to. Like 20% of working-age adults, I became disabled.
As a child, I dreamed of becoming a medical doctor and even won a full-ride scholarship. Then the tremors started and school became a second priority. While accommodations are often available, many small businesses don't understand how to do them. Without college, I struggled to find a low-income job that would fit my needs.
Although I was disabled long before I applied for government benefits, submitting that application, felt like hitting rock bottom. With no prospect of ever living outside of poverty, my dreams were over.
More below.
"As organizations and individuals, we tend to focus more on the closed doors than the open ones. It's time to remove the doors."
Why Am I Qualified To Do This Work?
My struggles sent me down a rabbit hole of understanding how to create a more adaptive work environment.
Not only did I get a basic business understanding, I took it a step further and started my Phd with a focus on disability inclusion. Through my research, I have learned the best practices and trends in the industry.
Together, you and I can tackle any inclusivity issue your business has.
Education
MBA
2020
I obtained my Master's of Business Administration from Western Governers University.
Phd I/O Psychology
2024
Currently, I am in the process of getting my Phd in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. I like to think of it as the psychology of the workplace.
Mission
To create a world where all employers can access tools that create disability inclusion.
Vision
We are a leading provider of reducing barriers to disability inclusion for small and medium businesses through our innovative courses and learning materials.
Core Values
Serve one another in love.
Everyone is welcome.
Do unto others as you would have them do onto you.
Disability Inclusivity Topics Covered
Employees
In my time as an office manager, we hired a disabled employee. Figuring out the regulatory compliance was a struggle.
Customers
A large part of your customers are disabled. If you haven't noticed them using your product and asking for accommodations, it is likely your business isn't inclusive.
Organization
There are many ways your organizational environment can help foster inclusivity- or not. A look at your policies can help increase safety, health, and productivity.
Comunity
As business owners, it is important that we think about how we can help our communities. I've spent a lot of time volunteering. Working with disabled individuals is a win for your community and your business.
More story...
While SSDI is a great program, being on benefits has one guarantee: you will stay in poverty. I became frustrated with not being free to create a retirement, go on vacation, or start a family. The greatest key to success is having upward financial mobility.
Eventually, I became dissatisfied enough to get off the ground and try again.
There are thousands of disabled individuals in the same position. As a business, let me help you to partner with them and change the story of disability from one of failure to hope.