"The VABLN offers businesses in the Commonwealth the unique opportunity to learn more about the inclusion of workers with disabilities to meet the increasing demand to create a diverse workforce."
--Jim Rothrock, Commissioner of DRS
"Once an overlooked talent pool, people with disabilities are contributing to the American economy in ways never imagined" --Thomas J. Donohue President & CEO US Chamber of Commerce
"TecAccess is a success today because of our disability employment initiatives. We have proven that employees with disabilities can improve workforce efficiency, morale, and brand loyalty, while at the very same time increasing retention rates and overall productivity. Businesses large and small now realize the ROI involved in hiring a talented workforce that includes people with disabilities." --Debra Ruh, President & Founder, TecAccess, LLC
"By becoming involved in an existing BLN, being part of a BLN start up in your state or partnering with organizations that serve people with disabilities, you will have the opportunity to learn how to diversify and increase both your customer base and workforce, thereby providing a tangible return on your investment." --C. T. Hill, SunTrust Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer
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ECMC Group is fortunate to have high caliber talent. This talent is very diverse and has propelled our corporation´s growth over the last decade. We are in the business of implementing vital national policy: helping Americans afford postsecondary education. Our strength derives from our diverse pool of employees, many of whom could be classified under the moniker of "handicapped" or "disabled". We do not think of any of our employees in these terms as each of them brings a unique understanding of America to us and of what is meant by quality customer service. Any firm that does not embrace diversity, including the traditional "disabled" category, will not be able to sustain growth and profitability. To have high caliber talent, firms must include all aspects, including the traditionally disabled, in their labor pool."
"The Virginia Business Leadership Network offers education to corporations that are attempting to understand the possibilities inherent in hiring employees with disabilities. ECMC believes in the effectiveness of the VABLN and its services. We feel so strongly in the mission of this organization that we support it through board and member participation. We recommend the VABLN to you and your company as you seek ways to integrate disabled employees into your workforce." --Dick Boyle, ECMC
"The Virginia Business Leadership Network plays an important role helping other businesses to understand the benefits of hiring people with disabilities as well as providing a safe environment to exchange ideas, discuss concerns and explore ways to feel more comfortable in their recruiting and hiring potential candidates for their company." --Howard Green, VCU