To recognize innovative business leaders and employers in our community who promote inclusive hiring and meaningful employment opportunities for persons with diverse abilities.

Vision Statement

A society where meaningful employment opportunities lead to sustainable career growth for persons with diverse abilities.

What is the Inclusive Employer Awards?

The Inclusive Employer Awards are a celebration and recognition of employers who are making a difference in inclusive employment. Five awards are given out to businesses in our community who go above and beyond to hire people with diverse abilities.  Guests enjoy a buffet dinner, a panel discussion, awards presentation, networking opportunities and a vendor exhibit.  The event was first held in 2014 thanks to inspiration from business owner Mark Wafer – to learn more about our beginnings, refer to the “History” page for more: https://inclusiveemployerawards.org/history

The purpose of the event is:

1.     To recognize inclusive employers for their successes in creating a culture of inclusivity, implementing innovative solutions, providing job supports to employees who have diverse abilities, going above and beyond making hiring inclusively a reality; and

2.     To inspire new and potential employers to hire inclusively. 

What does it mean to be Inclusive?

For the purpose of this event, ‘inclusive’ means hiring people with disabilities and diverse abilities.