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This fall, a small team from Vista Autism Services, including MaryLou Winters, Manager of Adult Employment Services, toured VF Corporation’s East Coast Distribution Center (ECDC) in Jonestown, Pennsylvania. While the tour offered a deeper look into VF’s operations, it also highlighted the longstanding partnership between VF and Vista, with multiple Vista clients, including graduates from The Vista School, contributing to VF’s workforce. This collaboration exemplifies how inclusion and innovation can redefine workplace success.
A Tour of Purpose and Progress
Walking into the 500,000-square-foot facility, the energy was palpable. The tour began with a visit to the employee break and cafeteria area, a comfortable, well-lit space thoughtfully equipped. This area exemplifies VF’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace. Moving from the cafeteria to the workspaces, the team observed equally bright and well-lit areas buzzing with activity as employees engaged in various job functions, including picking, packing, shipping, and stickering. The efficiency of the warehouse is powered not just by state-of-the-art systems, including miles of conveyor belts and advanced automated technologies, but by the dedication and diversity of its workforce.
VF’s commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace is evident at every turn. With several Vista clients among the 15% of their workforce composed of individuals with disabilities, this partnership underscores VF’s forward-thinking approach to hiring. Jenn Thompson, SHRM-CP (Society for Human Resource Management – Certified Professional), Senior Manager of Human Resources, whose certification reflects the extensive proficiency and dedication required to excel in the field of human resources, proudly shared, “You’d be surprised what can be accomplished when you think outside the box and ask, ‘Why not?’”
Jenn’s passion is contagious. She commutes over an hour each day, driven by her commitment to creating opportunities and nurturing an environment where everyone can thrive. During the tour, Jenn pointed out the holistic training provided to all employees, ensuring they are equipped to perform multiple roles. “We don’t create jobs for people with disabilities; we create pathways for them to do the same jobs as anyone else,” she explained. This philosophy underscores VF’s belief in ability, not limitations.
Stories of Success
While touring, the team visited with MK, a graduate of The Vista School and a client of the Adult Services Employment Program for over five years. MK recently transitioned from another employer to start his new job at VF. As MK returned from lunch, his smile was visible across the warehouse. When asked how his day was going, he enthusiastically replied, “Having a great day!” MK’s joy and pride in his work exemplify the transformative power of meaningful employment. It’s not just a job; it’s a stepping stone toward independence and confidence.
Partnerships in Action
During the tour, the team also observed students from IU13 (Lancaster-Lebanon Intermediate Unit 13), a regional educational service agency, participating in job training exercises. This collaboration further illustrates VF’s dedication to building bridges between education and employment. By partnering with organizations like Vista Autism Services and IU13, VF creates opportunities for individuals to gain hands-on experience and develop essential skills for the workforce.
Jenn shared how the inclusion initiatives began following the challenges of rebuilding a workforce post-COVID. Inspired by other companies successfully integrating employees with disabilities, VF set an initial goal of 7% and has since surpassed it, achieving 15%. Jenn’s philosophy of questioning norms and challenging assumptions has been instrumental in this success.
A Broader Impact
VF’s commitment to inclusion extends beyond individuals with disabilities. During the visit, the team observed VF’s security staff learning Farsi to communicate with recently hired refugees. This initiative reflects VF’s dedication to fostering a welcoming environment for all employees. Among the refugees, Jenn highlighted an Afghan former business owner, now contributing his expertise to VF’s facilities team. His role in optimizing equipment and supporting expansion underscores the untapped potential of diverse perspectives and experiences.
Aligning Missions: VF and Vista
VF’s dedication to creating an inclusive workplace aligns seamlessly with Vista Autism Services’ mission: “To advance and innovate, to improve lives, and to inspire hope for individuals with autism and their families.” Both organizations recognize the value of empowering individuals to reach their unique potential. By providing meaningful employment opportunities, VF and Vista are not just transforming lives—they’re reshaping what an inclusive workplace can look like.
A Call to Action
As Jenn aptly put it, “Why not?” This simple yet powerful question challenges employers to think differently about hiring practices and inclusion. The partnership between VF and Vista demonstrates that creating a diverse and inclusive workplace is not only achievable but also incredibly rewarding.
For employers considering similar initiatives, Jenn’s advice is clear: take the leap. The benefits extend beyond productivity metrics; they foster a culture of respect, belonging, and shared purpose.
Closing Reflections
Leaving the ECDC, the Vista team left with a profound sense of optimism. The collaboration between VF Corporation and Vista Autism Services is more than a partnership; it’s a movement toward a more inclusive future. As we continue to champion opportunities for individuals with autism and other unique abilities, stories like these remind us of the power of possibility.
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