Neil Squire Central Region staff will be at the 11th Annual EARN Conference.

While strides have been made in advancing disability inclusion during the hiring process, the retention phase remains a significant challenge for many employers. Far too often, individuals with disabilities face barriers that hinder their career progression, such as a lack of attention to wellness, accessibility, and inclusion and belonging. As a result, many talented and qualified employees with disabilities find themselves leaving a workplace – or even the workforce – prematurely, leading to a loss of skills and experiences that could greatly benefit organizations.

The retention of people with disabilities in workplaces is a strategic necessity. It is an acknowledgment that diversity is not just about initial inclusion but about creating environments where every individual, regardless of their abilities, can thrive and contribute to the fullest. By retaining and empowering individuals with disabilities, we not only enhance organizational performance and innovation but also foster a society that values every individual’s potential and contributions, creating a more equitable and accessible future for all.

Aimed at employers, along with service providers and other stakeholders, this year’s Conference will focus on Retention of People with Disabilities. The Conference provides a unique platform to uncover the underlying factors that contribute to the challenge of retaining employees with disabilities. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the nuances of this issue, examining the barriers and best practices that shape the retention landscape.

We are delighted that Michael Lifshitz of IllumAbilities will guide our program once again this year. Join us to hear from practitioners, employers, experts, and individuals with disabilities for a morning of learning, sharing, and ideating solutions.

EARN is a United Way East Ontario led community initiative that brings together in partnership employers, employment service providers and other stakeholders with the goal of increasing employment opportunities for people with disabilities and promoting inclusive and accessible workplaces.

You are cordially invited to attend the 11th Annual EARN Conference that will be held via Zoom on Wednesday, November 22nd, 2023 from 9:00am to 12:00pm EST.

ASL will be available at the event.

Should you require accommodation for this event, please contact Hester Lai by November 8th, 2023, at: hlai@unitedwayeo.ca.

Please feel free to share this invitation with others in your organization and in your network.

Please note: The conference will be held in English only.