Our Mission, Vision & Values

Defining who we are, what we strive to achieve, and the principles that shape our work.

MISSION

Empower creatives with disabilities to grow personally and professionally by building the skills, confidence, and connections needed to pursue fulfilling careers in the entertainment industry and beyond – effectively turning passions into paychecks while reshaping perceptions of talent and ability in the world around us.

VISION

A society in which every individual, regardless of disability, has equitable access to education, employment, and opportunity—allowing them to contribute fully to their chosen field and live empowered lives defined by dignity, autonomy, and the freedom to pursue purpose, fulfillment, and lasting economic security.

VALUES

Empowering & Supporting

We put the CAN in Yes I Can by nurturing confidence, independence, and growth, while actively advocating for inclusive opportunities and equitable representation for individuals of all abilities.

Empathetic & Person-Centered

We listen with heart, act with intention, and build authentic connections by centering on the unique needs, talents, and goals of every individual.

Honest & Dependable

We uphold integrity by doing what is right – even when it’s hard. We take responsibility for our actions, follow through on our commitments, and adapt with creativity when challenges arise.

Respectful & Compassionate

We treat every individual with dignity, care, respect and unwavering kindness, care –honoring their journey and supporting their growth.

YIC believes every individual with a disability deserves equal access to employment opportunities and the right to earn a living wage in a career aligned with their talents, skills, and interests. This includes access to quality training and employment services that support success in their chosen field.

The current workforce participation rate of people with disabilities is unacceptable. Access to real jobs with real wages is essential to prevent lives of poverty, dependence, and isolation. We believe all working-age individuals with disabilities can work in fully integrated settings alongside colleagues without disabilities, earning livable wages. Like all employees, workers with disabilities should have access to the support services necessary for workplace success.

YIC's purpose is to empower people with disabilities through:

  • Greater independence in daily life

  • Access to quality career skills training and employment services that develop marketable industry skills for competitive integrated employment

  • Innovative support services that meet current and emerging needs in career development and employment

  • Increased opportunities to work in integrated, non-sheltered settings

Our primary goal is to facilitate successful transitions from high school to gainful employment. We achieve this through a person-centered planning model that builds on each individual's unique needs, abilities, skills, interests, and goals.