Unified Work

04/08/2026

We’re proud to celebrate one of our own!

Meet Ben: an MDI employee, dedicated team member, and Special Olympics athlete representing Team Minnesota this summer.

Ben will be competing in powerlifting at the Special Olympics Games, bringing the same determination and focus he shows every day at MDI.

From his nearly 20-year career to his passion for sport, Ben’s journey is a powerful reminder that inclusion goes far beyond the workplace; it’s about confidence, community, and showing up fully in every space.

We’ll be cheering him on every step of the way! 💪

04/01/2026

While MDI is a proud sponsor of the upcoming Special Olympics Games, there’s even more to look forward to. 👀

Unified Work will have a major presence throughout the week, bringing our focus on employment and inclusive career pathways directly to Athlete Village and Fan Zone.

We’re especially excited to be part of the Special Olympics employment pillar; creating opportunities to explore what’s possible beyond the Games.

✨ And… we’ve been working on something new.
Stay tuned for the launch of brand-new VR experiences you won’t want to miss.

03/27/2026

Career growth isn’t one-size-fits-all, and that’s a good thing.

In our latest blog, we share Steve’s story, a powerful example of how growth doesn’t always follow a straight path.

Through building skills, confidence, and finding the right environment, Steve’s journey shows what career advancement can really look like.

Take a read 👇

Steve Reinardy’s career advancement reflects what becomes possible when personal determination meets real access to growth.

03/25/2026

Today’s the day! 🥪💙

Jersey Mike’s Day of Giving is here and 100% of today’s sales are going to support Special Olympics athletes.

Grab lunch, pick up dinner, or treat your team. Every order makes a difference.

It’s an easy (and delicious) way to support inclusion today.

03/19/2026

Looking for a reason to plan a team lunch next week? 🥪

On March 25, Jersey Mike’s is hosting their Day of Giving, donating 100% of sales to Special Olympics.

Grab your coworkers, friends, or family and make a meal out of it. Every order helps support athletes and advance inclusion.

Who’s in?

03/17/2026

Feeling lucky this St. Patrick’s Day? 🍀

Opportunity isn’t just luck it’s about having the right support and the chance to grow.

Our Career Skills courses are now open for registration and designed to help you build confidence and prepare for the workplace.

Take the next step with us!

03/11/2026

Lost in the email shuffle? We’ve got you.

Here’s the quick reminder: Cabin Fever Reliever is tomorrow!

Join fellow Team MDI volunteers for a casual evening where you can:
✔ Enjoy wings, pizza, and a brew while connecting with fellow volunteers
✔ Get a preview of Unified Work’s Pathway to Employment experiences at the Special Olympics Games
✔ Sign up for volunteer shifts so you can plan ahead for the week of the Games

We’d love to see you there and kick off the Special Olympics excitement together!

03/05/2026

Four students from Minneapolis’ Transition Plus program started jobs at MDI during the Fall 2025 semester, now completing government contracts: a first for many of them.

For some, it was their first paid job, first work experience outside of school, and first step into adult life. Opportunities like this show what’s possible when inclusive workplaces and supportive programs come together.

02/25/2026

Growth starts with awareness. 🌱

Our Emotional Intelligence Workshop helps individuals with disabilities strengthen self-awareness, manage emotions, and connect more deeply with others.

Through proven CBT-based activities, participants learn to reframe challenges and build a mindset for confidence and independence.

Spots are limited. Register now and take the first step toward emotional growth and self-empowerment.
https://na2.hubs.ly/H03X4-p0

02/17/2026

Did You Know?

In 2025, Unified Work facilitated nearly 35,000 learning experiences across our programs and platforms.
That’s 35,000 moments of growth and opportunity.

And in 2026? We’re aiming for double.
Help us keep building.

The Unified Work Program leverages Virtual Reality and STEM education to empower individuals by providing accessible, hands-on training in life skills and technical fields. Through immersive learning experiences and cutting-edge technology, participants gain the tools and confidence to succeed in to...

02/12/2026

The countdown to Special Olympics is on and we need YOU!

Join us as a volunteer and help create an unforgettable experience for athletes and families.
From event support to hands-on engagement, there’s a place for everyone.

Register below.

Join Unified Work at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota. Volunteer and help athletes explore careers through VR and inclusive experiences.

02/10/2026

What if inclusion didn’t always start with a policy, program, or plan, but with where we choose to spend our time?

A recent theatre experience with Unlabeled Theatre Company sparked thoughts about belonging, access, and how inclusion often starts with showing up.

Read more here:

Inclusion lives in the spaces we choose to create together. Unlabeled Theater Company sets a great example in creating one of those spaces.