London: As Honourary Chair of the Ability First Coalition Mayor Joe Fontana today joined new City of London employee,Lisa Boatangas they showcased her customized work space.
Ability First Coalition is a not-for-profit organization of volunteers working to bring business people together to share best practices related to hiring and retaining persons with disabilities.
ATN Access Inc. worked with the City’s Human Resources Department to put the correct equipment in place so that Lisa’s work space is right for her needs.
The London based organization provides opportunities for individuals with injuries or physical, sensory and learning disabilities to gain access to employment or reach their learning goals through a variety of assessment, skills upgrading and personal development services.
ATN Access Inc. serves companies and individuals in London-Middlesex, Elgin and Oxford Counties.
The Mayor was very impressed with the equipment provided to Ms. Boatang and said, “ATN Access Inc. has been a great resource for the City and we need to illustrate to other businesses how community resources like this can assist both the employer and the employee. There are multiple tools in place that make the workplace open to everyone and London should be a leader in demonstrating how a worker’s ability is not measured by a disability but by the value they bring to the job. We must become more creative as we become more inclusive.”
ATN Access Inc. would like to see more London companies engage in active hiring practices for people with disabilities and develop an understanding of how best to incorporate assistance devices within the workplace.
