Employing people with disabilities
"At first glance, a warehouse humming with the meticulous assembling of corrugated plastic products may not seem like the obvious place to employ and empower people with disabilities. But get to know the people doing the work, and you’ll quickly learn that MDI is a special place, with a culture founded on inclusion.
MDI is a Minneapolis-based manufacturer of corrugated plastic products and provider of production and medical services that help keep supplies flowing across Minnesota and the world. Within its three Minnesota facilities, MDI is a thriving business with a nonprofit mission of empowering the career success of people with disabilities. In fact, approximately half of MDI’s employees are people with disabilities.
Eric Black, president and CEO of MDI, says there is an opportunity for other Minnesota businesses to engage and employ this overlooked talent pool to address workforce shortages. The unemployment rate for people with disabilities is twice the general population.
The program has a goal of impacting 2,500 lives by 2025. MDI is seeking one-time funding from the Minnesota Legislature to roll out a virtual component and thus expand its reach. Pointing to progress made by other Minnesota companies, including Arrowhead Medical, Boston Scientific, Brother Justus Whiskey Company and Hotel Rapids, Black says providing good-paying jobs for people with disabilities also makes economic sense."
“If we open our minds to untapped talent pools, we can provide meaningful employment for people who deserve it, solve staffing challenges across the state and strengthen our economy.”
The event is aimed at empowering abilities and connecting pathways, with proceeds benefiting Unified Work. The support will enhance internships, curriculum development, ongoing classes, and digital program enhancements, aiming to make a direct impact on the lives of people with disabilities.
Purchase tickets HERE.