Empowering People for Inclusive Communities (EPIC): Transforming Workplaces through Ableism Training
In today’s world, fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace is more important than ever. Empowering People for Inclusive Communities, also known as EPIC, is helping to lead the charge in creating change. In addition to their work empowering young people with disabilities, EPIC specializes in providing training and consulting to educate employees about ableism and the importance of successfully including individuals with disabilities in their workplaces. Their programs are customizable and suitable for all levels of an organization, whether you’re a team of executives, managers, recruiters, or diversity professionals.
EPIC’s Comprehensive Approach to Disability Inclusion
EPIC’s training programs are designed to create a solid foundation for disability inclusion. They cover a range of topics including ableism, disabilities, accessibility, and inclusion, ensuring that all participants gain a deep understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and the strategies to overcome these challenges in the workplace.
In the last year alone, EPIC has provided 47 Workplace DEI Trainings across various states including Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, California, Illinois, Michigan, New York, Florida, and Washington, DC. Their clients span a diverse range of fields, including medicine, science, nonprofit, corporate, education, and local and state government.
Impact and Reach
EPIC conducted 47 Workplace DEI Trainings on ableism, disabilities, accessibility, and inclusion, which amounted to over 150 hours of Training and Consulting provided, a more than 85% increase in service hours from last year. In total, EPIC’s trainings programs have reached more than 950 people this year.
The feedback from participants highlights the transformative effect of EPIC’s training sessions. One participant shared, “I appreciated the opportunity and time to self-reflect on my own bias and time to discuss best practices and next steps on my journey to learn more and impact change.” This sentiment emphasizes the impact of EPIC’s trainings.
Another participant praised the expertise and approach of Jeff Lafata-Hernadez, EPIC’s Founder and Executive Director: “The level of knowledge and expertise of Jeff, the trainer, was most valuable. He presented the information in a very clear and concise manner. Also, Jeff created a supportive environment for the attendees. The interactive activities were a useful tool in reminding us of the biases individuals face daily and to self-reflect on our own biases.”
A Commitment to Inclusive Workplaces
EPIC’s commitment to fostering inclusive workplaces is unwavering. Their training programs not only educate attendees, but also inspire action, encouraging organizations to take meaningful steps toward disability inclusion. By addressing ableism head-on and providing practical tools and strategies, EPIC is helping to create workplaces where everyone can thrive.
Click here for more information about EPIC and their training programs. We wouldn’t be able to do what we do without your direct support of our services, programs, and over 2,100 people with disabilities we serve each year. As we close out this program year, please click here to donate and to keep this positive momentum going.