For the second time in two years, The Hershey Company (NYSE: HSY) has earned a perfect score on the Disability:IN Disability Equality Index for 2024. As part of this rating, Hershey was named a Best Place to Work by The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD).
Commitment to Inclusion
“We believe that belonging and business success are a powerful combination at Hershey,” said Jason Reiman, Senior Vice President, Supply Chain and executive sponsor of The Hershey Company’s Abilities First Business Resource Group (BRG). He also said, “Our continuous recognition by Disability:IN demonstrates our dedication to creating an environment where all employees can be supported and thrive while also building upon the fundamental work we have done across our enterprise and communities. However, it is important to note that there remains more opportunity so as not to leave any voice unheard or perspective undervalued thus allowing each person an equal chance at achievement.”
Benchmarking Disability Inclusion
Disability:IN established its benchmark in 2015 as the most comprehensive tool for measuring disability inclusion within organizations. It seeks to address the high rates of unemployment and underemployment among people with disabilities by assisting employers in developing inclusive workplaces. This year’s results were heavily influenced by various company initiatives aimed at driving positive change through business such as:
Recruitment and Employment Practices:
Ensuring inclusivity throughout recruitment processes including candidates who may have disabilities.
Supplier Diversity:
Including disability-owned businesses in procurement policies and training employees making purchasing decisions
Top-Level Support:
In 2023, The Hershey Company President and CEO Michele Buck signed Disability:IN Disability Equality Index’s CEO letter on Disability Inclusion committing her organization to track progress made towards becoming more inclusive toward individuals living with different abilities.
Talent Development:
Improving internal practices and policies so that all talent is given a chance to grow within the organization regardless of any perceived limitation caused by their disability status
Training and Resources:
Offering extensive resources for managers who may not be familiar with how best accommodate people with disabilities or what language to use when addressing them.
Community Partnerships:
Working together alongside external agencies like Susquehanna Service Dogs towards fostering an inclusive culture both internally as well as externally throughout various communities where they operate
Setting the Standard
“The Hershey Company’s consistently high scores demonstrate their commitment to people and recognition that we are stronger together when different perspectives are brought forward,” said Jill Houghton, President and CEO of Disability:IN Disability Equality Index. “They serve as an example other organizations can follow if they want job sites which embrace diversity rather than shy away from it. Such companies create opportunities not just for disabled workers but also open doors through which these individuals can contribute significantly towards tangible business achievements.”
For more information about The Hershey Company’s dedication towards becoming more inclusive toward individuals living with different abilities please visit The Hershey Company’s official website: https://www.thehersheycompany.com/
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