The Americans with Disabilities Act and Advancing Inclusion, at Old National and in Our Communities
As the final chapter of a millennium, the 1990s was almost predestined to be a monumental decade. It was a mantle the decade took up in earnest, with a major move made right from the onset when the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law on July 26, 1990.
Under this landmark civil rights legislation, a layer of protection was granted to individuals with physical and mental disabilities, giving “them equal opportunity in public accommodations, employment, transportation, state and local government services, and telecommunications” (Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) | History & Facts | Britannica).
Title I of the act stipulates that individuals with disabilities be given equal opportunity to access employment for which they are qualified applicants, and that reasonable accommodations be provided by the employer where needed. Employers with 15 or more employees must comply with this law.
Old National and disability inclusion
Old National has embraced this responsibility with a great deal of care and consideration. The stewardship of this legal responsibility has been displayed not only in the hiring of individuals with a vast array of disabilities, but in the efforts made to support their success both in the workplace and beyond.
Thoughtful discussions about accommodations have enabled members of the Old National team who have disabilities to perform the essential functions of their roles successfully. Grassroots efforts such as the internal “Achieve Ability” mentorship program have paired mentors and mentees, providing opportunities for professional development while fostering growth and learning for both mentors and mentees.
A pivotal example of Old National’s efforts to build a table that truly invites everyone has been the development of the internal Abilities First Impact Network. An Impact Network that welcomes anyone wanting to learn, nurture, and grow, Abilities First fosters an environment of inclusivity. The initiative is pursued through education and increasing awareness of the disability community – particularly in the workforce – and has ranged from fun events to more sensitive, potentially life-saving training and conversations in support of those with physical or mental disabilities.
From internal to external impact
The pursuit to galvanize the internal work team in support of those with disabilities has led to outreach to the wider community that Old National serves, as well. Resulting from this internal support, Abilities First has grown the bandwidth to offer support to disability-focused non-profits, including the younger members of local disability communities.
Steps remain on the path of disability inclusion, but major hurdles have been dismantled in the 36 years since the ADA legislation passed. By continuing to encourage conversation and the expansion of our support of disability communities, we can take that road one mile at a time, together.
For more information on Old National’s inclusive work, go to oldnational.com/about-us/inclusion.
