2024 NACo Award

Department of Human Resources – Neurodivergent Excellence Initiative

The County of San Diego’s Neurodivergent Excellence Initiative, led by the Department of Human Resources (DHR), is revolutionizing the recruitment process and creating a more equitable work environment for neurodivergent individuals. Anchored in three strategic pillars —surveying/engagement, employee training, and Departmental Work Plans (DWP)—the initiative is designed to set a national standard for equity, diversity, and inclusion. DWPs are created to promote inclusive practices and enhance outreach and recruitment. The initiative introduces annual training tools for all County staff and supervisors, addressing disability and neurodiversity, and are designed for flexible delivery.

To measure impact, anonymous surveys are conducted to assess the number of neurodivergent employees in the County workforce and gauge their sense of belonging in the workplace. DHR, alongside its core team and consultants, engages with community-based organizations, hosts informational sessions, and has made the application process more inclusive based on feedback from neurodivergent individuals and experts. The County envisions a workplace where differences are celebrated, fostering a sense of belonging and setting a benchmark for equity, diversity, and inclusion. The Neurodivergent Excellence Initiative is a commitment to creating an inclusive workplace for everyone.