Don’t underestimate
At Spaulding, workers who are sourced through the transition programs receive a slightly more extensive onboarding process. “With two extra training sessions, some of these kids have become our best employees,” Vasquez says. Basic procedures like adding more labels and handing out checklists can help workers with disabilities better perform their duties. When workers show an interest in a more challenging role, Vasquez will let them try it out with a supervisor nearby. “Just give it a chance,” she says.
Kendal’s staff with disabilities go through the exact same orientation as the rest of the team. But the culinary team still accommodates them on the job when necessary. “They want to be treated like everyone else,” Butler says. “At the end of the day they are people, and they need to be treated equally.”