We are valuABLE.

At Liberty Bottles, inclusivity is more than a policy; it’s a cornerstone of the culture. Liberty’s commitment to employing a diverse staff is exemplified through the employment of Tony, Gavin, Michael, and Sarah—four dedicated staff members with disabilities. Their contributions have enriched the workplace environment and highlighted inclusivity's incredible value to any organization.

Building a Diverse Workforce

When asked what motivates Liberty to hire staff with disabilities, Bill Hitsman, Director of Operations, shared his insight: “In our culture, we like to give everybody an opportunity, no matter what their needs are, what their skill sets are … My experience is we’ve hired very accountable, very dependable individuals.” This sentiment is echoed across the entire team, where each member appreciates the reliability and positivity Tony, Gavin, Michael, and Sarah bring to the workplace.

Liberty has successfully created a culture where everyone, regardless of their ability, has an opportunity to thrive.

“We want to make sure that everybody comes to work feeling valued and like they have a purpose,” said Bill. This philosophy underscores the company’s dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.

The Positive Impact of Inclusivity

Hiring Tony, Gavin, Michael, and Sarah has had a remarkable impact on Liberty. They are competent team members who are integral to the company's daily operations. From running equipment to quality control, their roles are diverse and essential.

“They always bring a positive attitude to work. They’re willing to work and help at any time,” Bill said. “Their enthusiasm and commitment have made the workplace more enjoyable and productive for everyone.”

Each employee hired through Yakima Specialties brings unique strengths to the table. Michael, for instance, is known for his incredible speed and efficiency, while Gavin is appreciated for his steady and reliable work ethic. Tony’s versatility allows him to excel in many tasks, and Sarah’s reliability and quality control skills make her an invaluable part of the team.

“All four of them are worth everything to us,” Bill noted.

Overcoming Challenges Together

While there are always challenges in the workplace, Liberty has cultivated an environment where obstacles are met with understanding and support. To ensure everyone can perform their best without undue stress or frustration, Liberty assigns tasks that match employees’ abilities and comfort levels.

“The secret to the success here is making sure the tasks staff are assigned make them happy and are within their abilities to complete,” said Bill.

Liberty’s thoughtful approach extends to building relationships and fostering a sense of belonging among all employees. Liberty emphasizes open communication and continuous support to ensure everyone feels valued and included. Liberty coordinates with its employees’ job coaches to set their employees up for success.

“Liberty’s leadership understands them. We understand what they can do, what they can’t do, and what frustrates them,” Bill shared, highlighting the importance of empathy and understanding in creating a harmonious workplace.

Building An Inclusive Yakima Community

Liberty’s experience with inclusive hiring practices offers a compelling case for other companies to consider. The benefits are many: increased productivity, a positive work environment, and the profound satisfaction of contributing to the community.

“The first step you need to take is to understand the individuals first,” Bill advised. “Understand what their capabilities are, what they feel comfortable doing.”

By recognizing that employees with disabilities are just like everyone else, companies can find ways to improve business while providing a meaningful, rewarding workplace for all kinds of employees. By embracing inclusivity, businesses not only gain dedicated and hardworking employees but can also foster a culture of compassion and respect. Inclusive hiring is a step toward creating a more diverse and equitable workforce, where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Liberty stands as a testament to the positive impact of inclusive hiring. Their experience shows that with understanding, the right opportunities, and support, individuals with disabilities can excel and become invaluable members of the team.

Are you ready to build a more inclusive workforce? Click here for more information.