Join us for this special episode, which is a featured part of the Strategic Humanity newsletter series on LinkedIn. We are diving into a powerful conversation about the invisible walls that hinder mobility and career opportunities for the special needs community in Middle Tennessee. This episode features the inspiring story of Ronda Clark, a local entrepreneur who is breaking down these barriers through her innovative transportation service, Able and Ready Transportation.

Discover how inclusive workplaces can tap into the “high grit” talent pool of individuals with disabilities. We discuss the Manager’s Pocket Guide, a tactical tool designed to help you initiate essential conversations about accessibility and commute challenges with your team. Learn how transitioning from viewing accessibility as a “charity project” to a strategic business move can unlock untapped potential within your organization.

Raising a child with autism or other special needs presents unique challenges, especially regarding long-term independence and employment. We explore resources like Stella, the AI-powered Special Needs Concierge, and the portal askstellanow.org, which connects families to vital local services and “bridge builders” like Ronda.

  • The Mobility Gap: Understand the geographic and time-based “invisible walls” created by traditional transit systems.
  • Strategic Humanity: Why supporting accessibility is a strategic move for business owners and HR leaders, rather than just a compliance box.
  • Able and Ready Transportation: How Ronda Clark’s service dissolves county lines to provide reliable, professional transit for wheelchair users.
  • Empowerment through Autonomy: Moving the conversation from just “transportation” to true community participation and dignity.
  • Strategic Humanity Newsletter: Follow on LinkedIn for more insights on inclusive leadership.
  • Able and Ready Transportation: ablereadyinc.com
  • Stella (Special Needs Concierge): askstellanow.org
  • The GEAR Foundation: Founded in 2004 to help parents navigate the challenges of raising children with special needs.For HR Directors and Business Leaders: For Special Needs Parents: Key Takeaways: Resources Mentioned