Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Land of Lincoln Goodwill Industries (LLGI) has a long history of supporting those with unique needs and disabilities. Our priority is to ensure that diversity, equity, and inclusion remains prevalent within our organization and our workforce. We encourage you to check this page regularly as we update our work and activities embracing diversity at LLGI.
National Disability Independence Day
National Disability Independence Day is celebrated annually on July 26th. It commemorates the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) into law in 1990. This law protects anyone with a disability from being discriminated against and assures them full participation in their communities, including access to government and public establishments, transportation, communications, and employment.
Since the ADA law was signed, it has been updated four times including the last update in 2017 to make all digital information accessible to persons with disabilities. 1 out of 5 people in the United States has some kind of disability and more than 15% or one billion people worldwide are affected by a disability. With the continued growth of our elderly population and people living longer, these numbers are rapidly increasing. In the U.S. more than 70% of people with a disability rely on friends and family to assist them with daily activities. The National Disability Independence Day reminds us that despite the law and our efforts, because of their disabilities, many people with disabilities are still being discriminated against each day.
As part of Land of Lincoln Goodwill Industries’ mission and values, our Adult Services program and the Career Services program assist individuals with disabilities gain self-sufficiency through the power of work.
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National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month
During the month of July, when we are traditionally celebrating Independence Day and spending time with our families, please take time to learn about minority mental health. July is a time to bring awareness to the unique challenges that racial and ethnic minorities in the United States face when it comes to mental health. In 2020, less than 1 of every 2 African Americans received care for their mental health. In 2018, Asian Americans were 60 percent less likely to receive mental health treatments than non-Hispanics. Some obstacles include lack of health insurance, less access to treatments, and stigma.
Bebe Moore Campbell, the co-founder of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), based in Los Angeles, has done groundbreaking work to revolutionize the way we approach mental health in our underserved communities. She recognized and understood the detrimental consequences of silence rooted in stigma. Bebe was a literary trailblazer who used her words in books including, “The 72 Hours Hold” and “Sometimes My Mommy Gets Angry” to address the impact of minority mental health within their culture and the communities.
Land of Lincoln Goodwill Industries offers support through the Employee Assistance Program for any employee who may need help with their mental health. Employees may contact the HR department or call 1-888-628-4824 for assistance.
