OREANDA-NEWS. June 17, 2015. Starbucks scored 100 out of 100 on a new Disability Equality Index survey, a joint initiative of the American Association of People with Disabilities and the U.S. Business Leadership Network.

The Disability Equality Index (DEI) is a national, transparent benchmarking tool that offers businesses an opportunity to receive an objective assessment of their overall disability inclusion policies and practices. It is an aspirational, educational, recognition tool that goes far beyond legal compliance. It helps companies identify opportunities for continued improvement, while building their reputations as organizations that value diversity and inclusion.

"I am extremely pleased with the results of this ground-breaking collaboration between members of the business and disability communities,” said Helena Beger, Acting President and CEO of AADP. “It’s a real testament to what can happen when people work together toward shared goals.” 

The 2014 DEI was completed by 80 Fortune 1000-size companies, representing a broad range of workplace, supply chain and marketplace activities.  Points are awarded in four major categories:  Culture & Leadership, Enterprise-wide Access, Employment Practices, and Community Engagement & Support Services. 

Companies receive points in any given category by demonstrating that they embrace a significant portion of the numerous best practices outlined in each section. Starbucks is one of only 19 companies that received a score of 100.

By scoring 100 points, DEI said Starbucks “demonstrated significant business leadership, driving their business success through leading disability inclusion policies and practices.”

The company’s leadership will be celebrated at an awards reception on Capitol Hill (July 30, 2015) in conjunction with the Washington D.C. celebration of the 25th anniversary of the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).