At Point B, we believe that creating an inclusive workplace means acknowledging and supporting the diverse abilities and needs of every individual. This belief is at the heart of bAbled, one of our employee-led Business Resource Groups (BRGs) at Point B, focused on supporting and embracing individuals across the accessibility and ability spectrum.
This group focuses on creating a safe space for open dialogue, building a supportive community, and collaborating on initiatives that benefit not just our employees, but also our customers and broader communities.
"Accessibility and ability are a spectrum, not limited to one group," explains Lee Clinton, one of bAbled’s leaders. "Our goal is to support and accept everyone on this spectrum."
Micole McCarthy, a co-leader of bAbled, adds, "The ability, disability, and accessibility spectrum is significant and serves everyone at some point in their lives. Whether you experience temporary, permanent, visible, or invisible challenges, bAbled is here to ensure Point B'ers are supported and equipped to succeed."
Breaking Down Barriers and Misconceptions
One of the key priorities of bAbled is to break down misconceptions about disability and accessibility. Disability is often perceived through a narrow lens, but in reality, it encompasses a wide range of experiences — including invisible disabilities, temporary conditions, neurodivergence, chronic illnesses, and age-related challenges.
"Many people think the ability spectrum only includes certain experiences, but the truth is, it’s so much broader," says Lee. "Anyone, at any age, can experience challenges related to ability."
For example, Micole shares her own story of sustaining a concussion. While it wasn’t a permanent condition, it temporarily impacted her ability to perform certain tasks at work. “The previous leadership within bAbled guided me through my recovery process, helping me maintain balance and productivity during that time,” she shares.
Similarly, other employees have shared how bAbled has provided them the tools and community to thrive in the workplace. One Point B’er shares, “I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) — a chronic, invisible autoimmune disease. The flexibility and accommodations I’ve received, such as an ergonomic workspace and remote-first options, have allowed me to stay productive while managing my health.”
Whether you experience temporary, permanent, visible, or invisible challenges, bAbled is here to ensure Point B'ers are supported and equipped to succeed.
Collaboration Across Communities
The work of bAbled extends far beyond the group itself. The BRG frequently partners with other groups at Point B, such as Women of Point B and Point Bravo (our veterans BRG), to address intersectional challenges that affect multiple dimensions of identity.
For example, caregiving responsibilities, often disproportionally shouldered by women, have been a focal point of collaboration between bAbled and the Women of Point B group. Similarly, discussions with Point Bravo have explored the intersection between physical recovery, mental health, and workplace advocacy.
By collaborating across BRGs, bAbled ensures that ability and accessibility are embedded into broader efforts to foster inclusivity and equal opportunities.
Driving Education and Allyship
Education is a core pillar of bAbled’s efforts, reflected in its focus on fostering allyship within Point B. "True allyship involves education and active listening, as well as understanding and advocating for experiences across different spectrums of ability," shares Micole.
bAbled is currently developing comprehensive accessibility guidelines to help Point B employees create more inclusive communications and interactions with colleagues and customers alike. From ensuring documents are screen-reader friendly to offering alternative formats for color-coded materials for those who are color blind, these small adjustments can have a large, meaningful impact.
“As much as this work matters internally, it’s equally critical for our customers,” adds Micole. “For example, accessible communication practices can help us better serve customers as we don’t always know how they identify. Accessibility is good for everyone, including our business and the communities we serve.”
Building a Stronger Community
The heart of bAbled lies in its focus on community. The group aims to create a welcoming space where employees feel heard, supported, and empowered to show up authentically in both their personal and professional lives.
Micole emphasizes, “Authenticity thrives when we recognize and appreciate the full spectrum of abilities. When employees don’t feel pressured to hide or overcome their challenges alone, they can be their best selves at work. This improves not only individual well-being but also team collaboration, innovation, and overall results."
One bAbled group member captured this sentiment perfectly, saying, “The resilience, optimism, humility, and empathy I gained from navigating my disabilities make me a better Point B’er and person. bAbled has equipped me with the tools to advocate for myself and others.”
More Than Just the Right Thing to Do
Lee and Micole are eager to revitalize the group’s programming with consistent workshops, forums for collaboration, and new resources to better support Point B employees.
“Our vision is a larger, more inclusive space where everyone feels they belong,” says Lee. “Even if you don’t currently identify as having a disability, chances are high you’ll benefit at some point in your life from the work we’re doing here.”
Micole highlights how the group’s mission aligns with broader business outcomes, emphasizing that inclusivity goes beyond simply doing the right thing – diverse teams play a key role in achieving stronger results. For example, research shows that teams with neurodivergent individuals are 30% more productive, bringing unique strengths like creative problem-solving and exceptional focus.
Together, we can be better, do better, and create a workplace where everyone thrives.
