Background of the Settlement
The Center for Independence (CFI), a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities, has been awarded $7,500 as part of a legal settlement stemming from an employment disability discrimination case in Mesa County, Colorado. The funds will support CFI’s mission to provide disability rights and etiquette training to local employers and employees, fostering more inclusive workplaces.
The case, handled by attorneys Dan Robinson and Nicholas Mayle of Ramos Law in Grand Junction, involved Michael Lacy, a man with intellectual disabilities, who faced mistreatment by his coworkers. The employer, rather than escalating the matter to court, chose to settle the case, providing direct compensation to Mr. Lacy while also allocating funds to CFI to promote workplace inclusivity efforts and improve disability awareness training in the community.
For more information about the Center for Independence, located at 740 Gunnison Ave., and its mission, please visit www.cfigj.org or contact the Grand Junction office at 970-241-0315.
Were You or Someone You Know Affected
Utilization of Funds
The $7,500 will be utilized by CFI to provide comprehensive disability rights and etiquette training to local employers and employees. This initiative aims to foster more inclusive workplaces by educating about disability rights and promoting respectful workplace etiquette. Jennifer Shook, Program Development Coordinator at CFI, emphasized the importance of these training sessions, stating, “Whether we call it inclusion or equal opportunities, it will offer trainings for a better work environment for everybody. If you treat and educate for most of everybody’s needs, then everybody’s needs will be met.”
About the Center For Independence (CFI)
Founded in 1982, the Center for Independence is a nonprofit organization based in Grand Junction, Colorado. CFI operates with a mission to empower individuals with disabilities to live independently and participate fully within their communities. Serving twelve counties across western Colorado, the organization upholds the philosophy that individuals with disabilities have the right to live with dignity and achieve their fullest potential.
Services Offered by CFI:
- Advocacy (Personal and Systems): Supporting individuals in defending their rights and promoting systemic change.
- Information and Referrals: Providing guidance and resources related to disability rights, services, and accommodations.
- Peer Mentoring: Offering support through shared experiences to empower individuals with disabilities.
- Independent Living Skills Training: Assisting individuals in developing skills for autonomous living.
- Community Transition Services: Helping individuals integrate into their communities and transition from institutional settings to independent living.
CFI also provides assistance with Social Security benefits, housing applications, sign language interpretation services (ASL), assistive technology training, and specialized support for individuals with visual or hearing impairments.
Upcoming Initiatives
In addition to the planned disability training sessions, CFI continues to offer various programs and workshops, such as:
- Housing Workshops: Equipping individuals with knowledge about accessible housing and how to navigate housing systems.
- Youth Group Sessions: Engaging younger community members in activities that promote independence and personal development.
Commitment to Inclusivity
This settlement highlights the ongoing need to address and rectify workplace discrimination while promoting inclusivity. CFI’s commitment to education and community engagement ensures that individuals with disabilities are supported and empowered to thrive in their personal and professional lives.
Contact Information
For more information about the Center for Independence, their services, or upcoming programs, you can reach them at:
- Address: 740 Gunnison Ave, Grand Junction, CO 81501
- Phone: 970-241-0315
- Email: info@cfigj.org
- Website: www.cfigj.org
CFI remains dedicated to providing the resources and support necessary for individuals with disabilities to live independently and integrate fully into their communities.
Contact ramos law
If you or someone you know has had similar experiences, contact Ramos Law’s experienced legal team today for a free consultation.
Dan Robinson
Of Counsel