Building an inclusive culture in New Hampshire's workforce

CONCORD, NH — Five businesses are being recognized for creating inclusive workplaces in New Hampshire for individuals with disabilities.

VR New Hampshire, a bureau of the New Hampshire Department of Education, in conjunction with the New Hampshire Council on Developmental Disabilities, is celebrating the 2023 Statewide Employment Leadership Awards. 

“Through vocational rehabilitation, businesses have access to a pool of skilled and diverse talent, allowing them to tap into a largely untapped workforce,” said Lisa Hinson-Hatz, director of VR New Hampshire. 

This year’s award winners include AVI Foodsystems Inc., CVS Health, Jake’s Old Fashioned Ice-Cream, Taylor Community and WIN Waste Innovations. 

• “We actually find jobs that will give everyone value and then once we’re there, we have a culture of inclusivity here on campus.” – Dawn Bellerose, manager with AVI Foodsystems at St. Anselm College Dining Services. 
• “The goal of this team is to work across the country with state (vocational) rehabs, high schools, local organizations to help individuals with disabilities segue into a workplace.” – Johnathan DaSilva, manager with CVS Health Workforce Initiatives.
• “You never know the quality of a person until you’ve given them a chance.” – Roni Vetter, owner of Jake’s Old Fashioned Ice-Cream. 
• “The management team is committed to working individually with people to identify their strengths and their challenges that they’re finding in their performance.” – Mark Latham, vice-president of operations with Taylor Community. 
• “In order to have an inclusive environment, you have to have the top leadership believe in it and want to instill it within the organization.” – Pamela Hobbs, chief human resources officer with WIN Waste Innovations. 

All five businesses were recognized last week during a special ceremony honoring their efforts to build inclusive culture and helping individuals with disabilities find not just a job, but a career. These businesses also understand that a diverse workforce can be a huge asset to their organizations. 

“We recognize and value the commitment and dedication of New Hampshire businesses that are supporting inclusive work environments for people with disabilities,” said Isadora Rodriguez-Legendre, executive director of the New Hampshire Council on Developmental Disabilities.

Videos highlighting the five award winners may be found on YouTube.