ABLE Lunch and Learn Highlights Importance of Independence at Work For Associates With A Disability

If there is one message to take away from ABLE’s Oct. 30 lunch and learn, it’s the phrase “I’m still me.”

The message was echoed throughout the panel led by ABLE co-executive champion and Mid Central Region Vice President Scott Bonner.

The panel, made up of associates Aaron Gadson, Alison Parramore, Dakota Walls and Chiletha Harmon, focused on working with a disability at the Exchange, which has been recognized by the Department of Labor and federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission for its efforts to champion associates with disabilities.

The Texas Workforce Commission Vocational Rehabilitation Division also recently issued the Exchange with the “We Hire Ability” distinction for its efforts.

“I’m still me” came up as an answer to Bonner’s question asking what some challenges associates with disabilities may face daily.

“I deal with multiple sclerosis and a lower back injury I sustained while in the military,” said Equal Employment Opportunity, Diversity and Inclusion specialist Harmon, a 20-year associate. “Often times, I do have to ask for help and it’s a pride thing. You still want to do things on your own and by yourself because I’m still me.”

Gadson, copywriter, who came to the Exchange through the Workforce Recruitment program, mentioned physical limitations.

“I have cerebral palsy,” Gadson said. “For me, it’s mostly physical. I deal with muscle spasms and tightness. That causes simple tasks like something as simple as getting out or bed or putting on shoes to be difficult.”

Business systems analyst Walls, who also came to the Exchange through the Workforce Recruitment program, mentioned how he leverages technology.

“My biggest adversity at work is the limitations I have with typing, writing and using a mouse,” Walls said. “I overcome this by using speech-to-text software. It lets me turn what I say into text and it really makes everything a breeze. I also operate a specialized controller with my mouth and that acts as a mouse.”

The panel mentioned accommodations may be simpler and cheaper than people realize. Solutions can be as simple as just moving furniture to allow associates using a walker or a wheelchair to maneuver easier.

Parramore, Logistics office assistant, said when she first came to the Exchange 13 years ago, her leadership worked with her to make her workspace more accessible.

“When I first came to the organization, they worked with me to get my desk set up to make it more accessible for me,” Parramore said. “Several years later, we restructured where associates were working and the Exchange worked with me to get the placement right.”

Walls said being able to work from home has been the biggest help.

“It’s helped me do my job without having to worry about what others are thinking about,” Walls said. “It’s really helped me feel more accepted and be more outgoing in the position.”

The panel agreed supervisors keeping an open line of communication goes the furthest. Gadson said supervisors should take a genuine interest to help.

“Listen actively with a genuine desire to help and create a more inclusive environment,” Gadson said. “Make sure that when you’re asking questions and be genuine in that. That’ll come through.”

Parramore said patience is also helpful.

“Some may need help at certain times, but again, they may not,” she said. “You can offer to help, but if they say, ‘No, I’ve got it,’ then give them that chance to do it,” Parramore said.

Parramore also mentioned it’s OK to ask questions.

“If you’re wondering about someone’s disability and haven’t spoken to them about it, go up and ask them,” Parramore said. “In the past, I’ve been nervous to ask certain people, but don’t be afraid to.”

Those moments provide an opportunity to educate, Gadson said. “Just be genuine. Like Alison said, ask anyway, because asking can give us a chance to educate you about our disability. It’s way better than assuming,” Gadson said.

Gadson emphasized people with disabilities want to work.

“We have a passion to be successful as contributing members of any environment we’re in,” Gadson said. “We’re critical thinkers because we solve problems on a daily basis. We’re just very outside-the-box-thinking people because we have to be.”

Exchange Special Emphasis Programs and EEODI

Associates interested in learning more about ABLE (Able, Believe, Lead, Empower) can contact program managers Brenda Hester (HesterB@Aafes.com) or Aaron Gadson (GadsonA@aafes.com) for more information. For information about Exchange special emphasis programs or the Equal Employment Opportunity, Diversity and Inclusion office, visit the SharePoint portal.

If you missed the lunch and learn or would like to revisit it, you can watch it below.