Meet Allies for All Abilities
- Stryker
- Jan 3, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 27
At Stryker, we know that feeling connected at work makes a difference. Our Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) create spaces where employees can build relationships, share experiences and grow both personally and professionally. Led by employees, for employees, these groups foster inclusion, provide support and help strengthen our culture.
ERGs are voluntary, employee-led groups that serve as a resource to both their members and Stryker. They provide opportunities to network, exchange ideas and navigate shared challenges while fostering personal and professional development. At Stryker, ERGs play an important role in creating an engaging and inclusive workplace. All employees are welcome to join any ERG, regardless of background or identity, to learn connect and contribute.
Allies for All Abilities (3A) helps promote and advance disability inclusion practices within Stryker that spark greater innovation, engagement and productivity. 3A fosters an inclusive environment by driving awareness, promoting accessibility and empowering employees, families and communities with apparent and non-apparent disabilities to thrive.
What makes 3A special? Members of our team shared why they joined:
1. Creating spaces for connection and growth
"3A has brought together people with disabilities, both seen and unseen, as well as caregivers. It has created a comfortable and inclusive environment for all of us to learn and share in our individual experiences. 3A allows people within Stryker to connect, grow and support each other through meaningful relationships." – Rick B.
"My hope is that by sharing my story and taking an active role in 3A I can help to further normalize conversations related to having a disability or caring for a loved one and be a resource to others who may be facing a similar situation in their life." – Lauren K.
2. Driving awareness and expanding perspectives
“Allies for All Abilities help us see the full picture by raising awareness of both apparent and non-apparent disabilities. Everyone is welcome - employees with disabilities, parents, caregivers and allies. And when it comes to neurodivergence, we must remember that every behavior happens for a reason. We don’t always know our colleagues’ full stories, but by leading with empathy and positive intent, we become stronger, more connected teammates.” – Karyn M.
“I’ve seen firsthand how simple accommodations can help people achieve great things. We encounter people every day with different abilities, and they deliver great results and do great things. Sometimes people need accommodations to perform at their best – all people, not just those with disabilities. Raising awareness, reducing stigmas and motivating changes are my goals as an ambassador.” – Paul B.
3. Provide community
“3A is a way to extend reach, support and knowledge of disabilities to members throughout Stryker. Creating a workforce that empowers individuals who are different makes our culture unmatched and why 3A is so important.” – Fallon D.
"Being active in 3A means that we can help our talented employees facing the challenges of disabilities themselves or in their families be their best selves at work and at home. I am confident that this work will make us an even better and stronger company." – Mike C.
4. Inspiring purpose and service
“The mission of 3A reminds me that whatever our circumstances, we can lead with grace in service to others and strive to bring our best selves to work every day.” – Julie S.
“What I love most about being a part of 3A is the shared enthusiasm I experience within the teams across Stryker." – Patrick O.
5. Professional development opportunities
“3A has been a tremendous growth opportunity for me both personally and professionally, and I am grateful for the exposure it has provided me. I’ve had the opportunity to network with colleagues from different departments, divisions, sites and levels within Stryker.” – Shawn H.
Looking to build your career in a workplace that values belonging and connection?
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