The purpose of the VOICE Program is to encourage colleagues of people with disabilities (PwD) to identify themselves as allies. These allies then work toward creating work environments that are more welcoming, inclusive and supportive.
Watch the Prezi that’s winning hearts and minds as it makes the compelling business case for greater inclusion of people with disabilities in the workplace.
When people with both apparent and non-apparent disabilities can make their voices heard and contribute to their highest potential, employers benefit, too.
When Deb was the Chief Diversity Officer at Merck, she worked closely with the Employee Resource Group for colleagues with disabilities and their allies. The group conceived the VOICE acronym in 2008, which stands for:
Value perceptions
Obtain perspective
Inspire trust
Challenge conventional thinking
Encourage accommodation requests
The VOICE program can be integrated into any workplace. It consists of four pillars:
- Inclusive Communication
- Workplace Accommodation
- Training and Education
- Regulatory Compliance.
Get a closer look at the VOICE program tools.