A shining star

The Board of Larimer County Commissioners recognized Larimer County Human Resources Inclusion Administrator Nicole Berg for receiving the Shining Stars of Disability Employment Individual Award from the Colorado Department of Vocational Rehabilitation.

Berg received the award for her work employing persons with disabilities within Larimer County government, and was recognized at the commissioners weekly Administrative Matters meeting.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Berg reached out to Colorado’s Division of Vocational Rehabilitation [DVR] Business Relations Unit [BRU] to hold meetings and collaborate on inclusive employment opportunities within Larimer County government.

“The county can really set an example for other businesses of how to do this and why it’s important for us to be inclusive in our work environment,” said Larimer County Commissioner Kristin Stephens.

The meetings resulted in following up with current candidates who are enrolled in DVR programs and Larimer County becoming a host employer while using incentives such as paid work experience, and on-the-job training opportunities. As a host employer, Larimer County worked to accommodate these employees while mentoring them to grow their skill sets.

“It’s not a job I do alone. Many of us know and recognize how important employment is. It gives us a purpose and helps us to give back in different ways,” said Berg.

Inclusion and employment for people with disabilities is part of Goal Two, Objective Two in the 2019 - 2023 Larimer County Strategic Plan.

“I echo what my colleagues said, and I appreciate all the progress you’ve made to be more inclusive especially  focusing on persons with disabilities,” said Larimer County Commissioner John Kefalas.

Since 2020, Berg and the BRU together have placed seven DVR participants across Larimer County Departments providing valuable services to the community.