Xcel Energy is committed to building a diverse workforce and fostering an inclusive culture. Our volunteer-led business resource groups (BRGs) are one way employees can connect with colleagues who share a certain characteristic (such as race, ethnicity, religious affiliation or gender identity). In honor of Disability Pride Month, observed every July to commemorate the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ACA) of 1990, we are celebrating the work of our ABLE (Accessibility, Be and ally, Lead and Empower) BRG members.
The ABLE BRG at Xcel Energy promotes a culture focused on improving recruitment, retention, development and career advancement of individuals with apparent and nonapparent disabilities. Volunteer members look to improve accessibility and build support at every level of the organization. Founded in 2022, the BRG has grown to over 135 members and hosts 12 events annually, increasing awareness of employees with disabilities in the workplace.
“I can see that I’m not alone because there are so many involved in the BRG,” said Crystal Rice, senior manager of Incident Response. “Having the support of others who experience the same challenges gives us strength when we wouldn’t normally believe we can keep going. I’m encouraged and inspired by the members of ABLE.”
The ABLE BRG gives employees a platform to express themselves, share roadblocks and feel supported. It also creates space for allies to learn and support others.
“Being part of the ABLE BRG allows me to connect with other employees with disabilities and share my lived experiences,” said Beth Kwakenat, accessibility compliance analyst. “It also gives me an opportunity to learn about the lived experiences of others with disabilities. By learning from other ABLE members, I am even more effective at my job. It’s a win-win for me.”
Xcel Energy is proud to recognize Disability Pride Month and to honor the diverse strengths, perspectives and contributions of people with disabilities. This July, and all year round, we are committed to empowering individuals to take pride in who they are and how their experiences contribute to creating a more accessible and inclusive workplace. Xcel Energy’s commitment to supporting disabled employees was recognized last July with our first score of 100 on the Disability Equality Index.
“As executive sponsor of ABLE, I am proud that our collective efforts to build a more inclusive workplace were recognized in 2023 with a perfect score on the Disability Equality Index,” said Frank Prager, senior vice president of Strategy and External Affairs and chief sustainability officer. “Our employees with disabilities bring a spirit of resiliency, commitment and innovation to their roles each and every day on behalf of our customers and communities.”
ABLE has increased awareness and improved accessibility practices within Xcel Energy, but it also offers lessons that all employees can put into practice in their personal lives.
“One constant truth about disability is that we all will be part of the disability community at some point in our lives,” said Kwakenat. “The disability may be permanent or temporary, apparent or nonapparent. . . . The ABLE BRG provides the support and encouragement we all need, whether for ourselves or for our families and friends living with disabilities.”