Jun 29 / Unified Work

Unified Work Sparks Inclusive Career Exploration at Special Olympics Minnesota 2025

On Saturday, June 21, 2025, during the vibrant energy of the Special Olympics Minnesota Summer Games, Unified Work once again brought innovation and inclusion to life at the University of Minnesota Athletes Village. As part of the Inclusive Work Career Fair, our team engaged athletes with a dynamic suite of hands-on experiences, including immersive virtual reality (VR) career exploration and interactive STEM learning activities.

Broadening Horizons Through Technology and STEM

Unified Work’s booth stood out as a hub of opportunity and inspiration. Participants dove into various career paths using VR headsets, navigating simulations in fields like construction, healthcare, IT, manufacturing, and automotive. This high-tech exploration was paired with engaging STEM experiences, offering athletes of all abilities the chance to discover their passions, problem-solve, and spark new ambitions.

Looking Ahead to 2026

Unified Work is proud to announce our sponsorship of the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota. As a mission-driven workforce development leader, we are thrilled to continue supporting inclusive career pathways on a national stage. Our commitment to empowering people with disabilities through education, technology, and opportunity remains steadfast.

Unified Work Program: Empowering People with Disabilities

Launched in 2017, MDI’s Unified Work program offers both in-person and virtual classes to equip people with disabilities the soft skills essential for workplace success. Since its inception, over 1200 people have graduated from a Unified Work Academy class. This program highlights the importance of inclusive work opportunities, a key focus for Special Olympics Minnesota.

The Inclusive Work Career Fair provided a platform for job seekers to connect with employers, support organizations, and access resources that facilitate meaningful employment.

Unified Work Program: Empowering People with Disabilities

MDI is a trusted Minnesota manufacturer and nonprofit social enterprise dedicated to providing employment opportunities and services for people with disabilities. We produce high-quality plastic containers for shipping, packing, and storage, and offer exceptional product assembly and packaging services for businesses nationwide, from small enterprises to Fortune 500 companies. By fostering an inclusive workplace, MDI enables employees to build confidence, independence, and purpose, resulting in dedicated employees and satisfied customers. Learn more at mdi.org.

Unified Work Program: Empowering People with Disabilities

Since 1973, Special Olympics Minnesota has been championing inclusion and acceptance for people with intellectual disabilities by offering year-round sports competitions, inclusive healthcare programs, leadership training, and inclusive school initiatives. Special Olympics Minnesota envisions a state where every individual, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to thrive and reach their fullest potential.

Ready to champion inclusive career opportunities? Get involved with Unified Work today and help spark change for people with disabilities.