Support MDI's Unified Work Academy

Proceeds from Give to the Max Day will directly benefit Unified Work, supporting initiatives like internships, curriculum development, ongoing classes, and digital program enhancements. By contributing, you are making a tangible difference in the lives of people with disabilities.

About Unified Work

Unified Work is founded on the belief that everyone deserves the dignity of a job. When a person is employed, it gives them independence and helps them feel empowered. There are more than 100,000 Minnesotans with disabilities who are ready and motivated to work yet have not been given a fair shot at employment. This is why Unified Work exists. Powered by MDI, Unified Work provides career soft skills training to people with disabilities. The goal of the program is to give people with disabilities the tools and confidence they need to thrive in their careers. People reach their full potential – and communities are at their strongest – when everyone can earn their own income. Unified Work has a bold goal of impacting 2,500 lives by 2025. Learn more at unifiedwork.com.

MDI is a Minnesota manufacturer with five locations across Minnesota. About half of its employees are people with disabilities. The organization is a social enterprise, which means that generated revenue funds Unified Work and its social cause of empowering people with disabilities.

Meet Nicholas 

Born with cerebral palsy, Nicholas’s journey is a testament to perseverance and advocacy. His parents’ encouragement led him to a community event at MDI, where he met Rachel Wobschall and was inspired to join MDI’s Board of Directors. As the youngest board member at the time, Nick’s fresh perspective and enthusiasm have been invaluable.

Nicholas’s role at MDI extends beyond the boardroom. He has also contributed as a Unified Work Trainer, teaching career skills to participants through in-person sessions. His passion for seeing people succeed and his belief that everyone has untapped potential are central to his work. Nick finds joy in witnessing individuals achieve more than they thought possible and thrives on encouraging others to shine.

Meet Kathy

Kathy’s life took a significant turn when health issues led her to move from Minneapolis back to Hibbing, MN. With a history of struggles in securing stable employment, Kathy’s path to finding a fulfilling job was not an easy one. However, her journey led her to MDI, where she found a welcoming community and a role that aligns perfectly with her skills and interests. 

Here's how you can partner with us to advance Unified Work:

$5,000 = Provides all-access virtual reality career exploration and training

$2,500 = Funds an instructor to lead in-person classes

$1,000 = Provides essential virtual reality headsets

$500 = Develops new curriculum for the academy

$250 = Creates a STEM Box with essential tools for hands-on learning

$100 = Educational materials for courses

$60 = Purchases course materials for a Unified Work Academy class

Donate today to help us advance Unified Work Academy! 

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