At UPMC, our Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) provide a space where employees can create community-based on shared values and life experiences. UPMC ENABLED (Empowering Abilities and Leveraging Differences) Network is an ERG that strives to provide the most ability-focused, inclusive employment experience possible by promoting a global culture of inclusion and diversity for people of all abilities. See what our employees had to share about participating in this group!
ENABLED to Advocate.
“Throughout my career at UPMC, I've always been impressed with UPMC's commitment to people with disabilities. The establishment and growth of the UPMC ENABLED ERG has been amazing to witness. I am continually impressed by the group's energy and sincere interest and active participation in advocating and educating about disability topics throughout the community. It is truly an honor to participate in this ERG and I look forward to seeing it grow in the coming years!"
– Ashli M., Director, Disabilities Resource Center
ENABLED to feel comfortable.
"I have been employed by UPMC for 30 years, having had the opportunity to grow professionally in several roles with the Health Services Divison and Insurance Services Division. UPMC ENABLED allows for employees with disabilities to advocate for employees with disabilities across the system, develop and improve processes for current and future UPMC employees, and educate and cultivate an inclusive environment for employees with disabilities. Allowing for employees with disabilities to feel comfortable requesting accommodations and lessen the self-imposed feelings of being a burden to colleagues and managers."
– Cassandra L., Program Director, UPMC Health Plan
ENABLED to Learn & Grow.
"Crohn's disease drastically impacts physical and mental health. After my diagnosis and subsequent change in my quality of life, my management team saw great value in what I was still able to accomplish rather than focusing on my limitations. This has resulted in even stronger career goals and long-term success within UPMC.
When UPMC ENABLED Network was established, I was ecstatic! This advocacy group brings people together and serves as a platform to share life experiences and challenges and look toward resolutions. Disability can be devastating, but groups like this provide space for education and growth. I cannot say enough good things in relation to my managers and the UPMC ENABLED Network."
Lisa L., Senior Histotechnician, UPMC Magee
ENABLED to feel comfortable.
"I have been employed by UPMC for 30 years, having had the opportunity to grow professionally in several roles with the Health Services Divison and Insurance Services Division. UPMC ENABLED allows for employees with disabilities to advocate for employees with disabilities across the system, develop and improve processes for current and future UPMC employees, and educate and cultivate an inclusive environment for employees with disabilities. Allowing for employees with disabilities to feel comfortable requesting accommodations and lessen the self-imposed feelings of being a burden to colleagues and managers."
– Cassandra L., Program Director, UPMC Health Plan
ENABLED to Be Empowered.
"In 2010, I was diagnosed with ataxia. For years I struggled with hiding this diagnosis only telling my close co-workers. I did not want to consider or believe what struggles I was going to face. When the news was shared with management it was not termination but the question: “How can we make it easier for you to continue utilizing your skills?” This attitude and concern is what makes me believe in myself and the ERG group UPMC ENABLED represents in the UPMC family. I am so pleased I can be involved in a group who works on giving people with struggles an opportunity to work with their skills and abilities."
– Mary Pat L., Administrative Coordinator
ENABLED to Be Me.
"The people in this group have made it a safe place for me to be who I am and share my feelings. This group does phenomenal work for people with disabilities and therefore makes our organization stronger by doing so! We all gain from the collaboration, inclusion, and love shared by everyone in this group."
– Andrea K., Sales Support Rep, UPMC Health Plan
ENABLED to Be Empowered.
"In 2010, I was diagnosed with ataxia. For years I struggled with hiding this diagnosis only telling my close co-workers. I did not want to consider or believe what struggles I was going to face. When the news was shared with management it was not termination but the question: “How can we make it easier for you to continue utilizing your skills?” This attitude and concern is what makes me believe in myself and the ERG group UPMC ENABLED represents in the UPMC family. I am so pleased I can be involved in a group who works on giving people with struggles an opportunity to work with their skills and abilities."
– Mary Pat L., Administrative Coordinator
ENABLED is full of passionate advocates driven to make UPMC a great place to work for people of all abilities. This group allows UPMC to embrace every opportunity to ensure our employees are engaged in their work and connected with one another!
