Gloria Nelson has onboarded many volunteers and staff as the events and operations manager for the Fond du Lac County Historical Society, which manages 30 buildings. This includes providing temporary work experiences for state vocational rehabilitation consumers under a partnership that Nelson terms a win-win. “Sometimes people just need somebody to come alongside them and just give them a chance to realize what they can do, and they find they can do more than they thought they could,” Nelson said. Because of its diverse and inclusive hiring practices that welcome individuals with disabilities into its workforce, the Fond du Lac County Historical Society has been recognized as an Exemplary Employer by the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development’s Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DWD/DVR). “The Fond du Lac County Historical Society has gone above and beyond in creating opportunities for people with disabilities to thrive in the workforce,” DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek said. “In doing so, the organization is also creating a more inclusive and equitable Wisconsin for everyone.” DVR officials presented the company with the award this week during an event at the Fond du Lac County Historical Society. The award was presented as Gov. Tony Evers proclaimed October National Disability Employment Awareness Month in Wisconsin to highlight businesses that recruit and hire people with disabilities. Last year, more than 2,000 employers created more inclusive workplaces in Wisconsin. The Fond du Lac County Historical Society was one of 25 businesses recognized throughout the month for leading the way to building a more diverse workforce in the state. The award ceremony featured remarks from DVR Business Services Consultant Nicole Greetan, DVR Counselor Kate Bauer, DVR Business Services Section Chief Patti Johnson, and Nelson. All Wisconsin employers are encouraged to reach out to DVR and meet with a local Business Services Consultant who can connect them with a variety of free resources to help recruit and hire people with disabilities, build staff diversity, and retain well-trained employees. DVR helped over 3,350 Wisconsin residents with disabilities find work over the past year. Individuals with a disability looking for ways to find a job, keep a job, or get a better job are encouraged to contact DVR at 800-262-0050, visit a local DVR office, or visit the DVR website at dwd.wisconsin.gov/dvr.
