Independent Living renews neurodiverse workplace certification

Independent Living, Inc. has renewed its Certified Neurodiverse Workplace designation through IBCCES, underscoring its push to support employees with different disabilities and neurodivergent backgrounds. The renewal comes as the Newburgh nonprofit expands a cross-disability inclusion initiative and promotes workplace practices aimed at retention, innovation and representation.

Why it matters: - Independent Living, Inc. is signaling that inclusion is part of its operating model, not a one-time effort. - The renewal is meant to help the nonprofit recruit, support and retain neurodivergent employees, including people who are autistic, have ADHD or are dyslexic. - IBCCES says the CNW program can improve efficiency by reducing turnover and strengthening problem-solving and innovation.

What happened: - Independent Living, Inc. renewed its Certified Neurodiverse Workplace™ designation on Sept. 23, 2026. - The Newburgh, New York-based nonprofit was first certified in 2024. - Staff completed training and certification through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards to qualify for renewal. - Independent Living, Inc. said the renewal reinforces its commitment to an environment where people with different disabilities, identities, perspectives and experiences are valued and supported.

The details: - Independent Living, Inc. is using the certification to strengthen its ability to recruit and support neurodivergent employees. - Doug Hovey, CEO of Independent Living, said neurodiversity means recognizing different ways people think, learn and contribute. - Hovey said the training helped the organization better understand those differences and the strengths they bring to the workplace and the people it serves. - Amanda Sanok, training coordinator, said the nonprofit wants its workforce to reflect the communities it serves. - Sanok said Independent Living, Inc. launched the Cross-Disability Inclusion and Representation Initiative in 2026. - Sanok said she is one of two co-champions working with the organization’s committee on that effort. - The CDI&R initiative is intended to remove barriers, value diverse experiences and create more opportunities for people with disabilities, including neurodivergent individuals. - Independent Living, Inc. said it is featured on the IBCCES Accessibility App, which is free to download. - The app provides real-time guidance on certified destinations, sensory-inclusive spaces and tailored recommendations for people with a variety of disabilities. - IBCCES also offers AccessibilityCertified.com and AutismTravel.com as free online tools that list certified locations and professionals. - IBCCES says each organization listed on those sites has met certification requirements.

Between the lines: - The renewal suggests Independent Living, Inc. is treating accessibility and workforce inclusion as connected goals. - The organization’s focus on disability representation fits its broader mission as a cross-disability service provider. - IBCCES is using certifications and public directories to turn workplace training into a visible credential, which can matter to job seekers and families looking for accessible services.

What's next: - Independent Living, Inc. said its CDI&R initiative will continue as part of its broader effort to build a barrier-free society. - The nonprofit is expected to keep using IBCCES training and certification tools as it expands inclusive workplace practices. - IBCCES said renewal requirements, ongoing learning and onsite reviews are part of maintaining the designation.

The bottom line: - Independent Living, Inc. is trying to make inclusion measurable, repeatable and visible — inside its workforce and across the communities it serves.