Dear Friends,
As we approach the end of another year, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for your support of Equip for Equality.
We may have emerged from the worst of the COVID pandemic, but people with disabilities still struggle to recover. Many resources and services slowed down during the lockdowns — we are still feeling the repercussions today as we are receiving more calls for help than ever before. Among the over 5,500 callers our staff helped in the last year, one person stands out to me.
Vicky worked for her employer for 25 years and was nearing retirement. Due to ongoing symptoms and limitations as a result of her cancer treatments, Vicky received a reasonable accommodation to work from home until she planned to retire in 2024. However, this year, her employer brought everyone who was working remotely during COVID back to the office – management decided there would be no exceptions.
Vicky was distraught that her approved accommodation was rescinded. She did not know how to talk to her manager, so she called Equip for Equality. We reviewed her records and drafted an email for her to send to HR. With our help, Vicky changed the employer’s mind about no exceptions and her remote work accommodation was reinstated.
For many people with disabilities, returning to in-person work is more than an inconvenience—whether it is a compromised immune system, PTSD, or difficulties finding accessible transportation, Vicky’s story shows how easily people with disabilities are overlooked when employers made decisions about COVID-related policies.
Often, people like Vicky can advocate for themselves if given the right tools and a little guidance. Your gift will allow us to continue empowering people with disabilities in Illinois. If you donated earlier this year, I invite you to extend your generosity during this festive season. Your extra support will go a long way in helping us ensure that every individual in Illinois can lead a fulfilling, self-reliant, and prosperous life.
Thank you for your support of our mission. Have a wonderful holiday season and a Happy New Year.
Warm regards,
