Both census and CDC data show disabilities are more common among older adults and non-Hispanic American Indians and Alaska Natives. Formal ERGs. Affinity groups, also known as employee resource groups (ERGs), bring together employees with similar backgrounds or interests and can have a powerful influence in the workplace. This could demonstrate her organizational and event planning skills, making her a great candidate for a position in event marketing. The group can present the idea to management, increasing the chances it will be accepted. Shannon joined the Black network at her company expecting to gain a sense of community, access to special projects, support and sponsorship from senior leaders, and even greater opportunities to advance. Its about having conversations where we're meeting people where theyre at.. The information contained in this website is provided for informational purposes only, and does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice on any subject matter. Reinforcing our commitment to an exclusive workplace where every employee feels a sense of belonging. Employee resource groups can contribute to employee retention by showing employers what PWD need to be successful. They can also help employees with disabilities identify what tools are available and how to access them. We looked at how ERGs that were rated as effective in one of five dimensionsexternal engagement, allyship, leadership connection, employee community building, and career advancementcorrelated with employee inclusion and belonging (see sidebar The five dimensions of ERG activity). Many of us want to be or are, participants. Hughes noted how the group can facilitate connections, including with experts at Paraquad. Save time with tax planning, preparation, and compliance. Other members of his or her ERG can offer suggestions or advice as to how they have overcome similar challenges. A newer employee may have insights into how the company can better accommodate everyone. ERG members who feel well served, on the other hand, enjoy greater feelings of inclusion. Messaging; 2. The CDC says a disability is any condition of the body or mind (impairment) that makes it more difficult for the person with the condition to do certain activities (activity limitation) and interact with the world around them (participation restrictions). More information, including state-level data, is available at the, Receive updates in your inbox as soon as new content is published on our website, American Community Survey and Puerto Rico Community Survey 2018 Subject Definitions (PDF). The Outies: LGBT ERG of the Year Partnering with Human Resources, the group aims to promote the recruitment and retention of employees with disabilities, inclusive of those with long-term health conditions, carers, or those otherwise affected by disability. More ERGs formed, and more sought support and resources from the corporate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) function as they ventured beyond employee community building into areas such as unconscious-bias training and product development.