Fostering an inclusive and accessible environment is central to our mission at Relias. In recognition of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), we’re proud to spotlight our Accessibility employee resource group (ERG) and its impact across Relias. Established in 2022, the Accessibility ERG is dedicated to advocating for inclusivity and creating a workplace where everyone can thrive, regardless of ability.
We sat down with two of the group’s leaders, Ashley (Ash) Lee, Manager of Education Technology, and Isabelle (Izzy) Gallagher, Senior E-learning Developer, to learn more about the ERG’s journey, the personal stories behind their passion, and the meaningful work they’re doing to promote accessibility and mental health.
Get to know Ash and Izzy
Ash has been with Relias for over four years, working in education technology for post-acute care, where she has built a close-knit team that she calls “a beautiful family.” Her passion for accessibility is rooted in her professional background in learning and development and her personal life, as she supports her nephew with autism.
Izzy joined Relias in May 2021, fresh out of college, and now works as a senior e-learning developer. She helps make Relias’ educational products more interactive and engaging, bringing creativity and innovation to everything she does. Izzy joined the Accessibility ERG board in 2023 and has played a vital role in the group’s growth and success.
A year of progress and initiatives
The Accessibility ERG has achieved significant milestones since its inception. One of the group’s standout initiatives this year has been Body Doubling. In this productivity technique, employees work side-by-side, either in person or virtually, to provide accountability and focus. This method has been particularly beneficial for those with ADHD or ADD, demonstrating the ERG’s commitment to practical, everyday support for all employees.
Ash and Izzy are also proud of the ERG’s efforts to raise awareness about invisible disabilities, like chronic illnesses, through events like the Courageous Conversations. These sessions have provided a platform for open dialogue and understanding around accessibility challenges, fostering a more profound sense of empathy and inclusivity throughout Relias.
Looking ahead: Q4 meeting focused on mental health
As we approach the end of the year, the Accessibility ERG is preparing for its Q4 meeting on October 29, which will focus on mental health awareness leading into the holiday season. The holidays can be a time of joy, but they can also trigger stress and mental health challenges for many. To support employees, the meeting will feature Relian Amanda Gayle, Ph.D., a licensed psychologist, who will share tips on identifying and managing potential triggers during this time.
Dr. Gayle will provide practical strategies for maintaining mental well-being, helping employees navigate the complexities of the holiday season with confidence and care. This meeting is a perfect example of how the Accessibility ERG continues to expand its reach, addressing the full spectrum of employee well-being — from physical accessibility to mental health.
Advice to others: “Start small, build big”
Ash and Izzy’s advice for other companies looking to launch or enhance their accessibility initiatives? Start small and build from there. Simple accommodations, such as encouraging employees to use Microsoft Teams’ “Do Not Disturb” feature to minimize distractions, can go a long way toward creating a more inclusive environment.
As Izzy puts it, “A big misconception about accessibility is that it’s hard to achieve or expensive. In reality, many simple, free solutions can make a world of difference.”
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