Turning Understanding into Action: How 84.51° Champions Neurodiversity and Accessibility

Autism Acceptance Month is an opportunity to move beyond awareness and deepen our commitment to inclusion, understanding and respect for autistic individuals. At 84.51°, this work connects directly to our purpose and values because everything we do starts with people—understanding them, serving them and creating meaningful impact through insight, empathy and innovation. Recognizing Autism Acceptance Month reminds us that every person brings a unique perspective and that those differences make us stronger as teams, problem-solvers and a community.

Acceptance is about more than recognition. It is about valuing autistic individuals for who they are and ensuring they have appropriate opportunities to contribute, grow and thrive in environments where they feel supported and respected. That belief is reflected in how we design our workplaces, our meetings and our culture.

This work is further supported by our Neurodiversity People-Led Team (PLT), which helps make neurodivergent and disabled associates’ experiences easier through, for example, peer support and education. From creating space for connection to advising teams on accessible ways of working, the PLT helps ensure accessibility is embedded into how we show up every day.

Accessibility in Action Through 84.51°

At 84.51°, much of this work is led through 84.51° our community focused on accessibility and inclusion. 84.51° helps ensure that accessibility is not an afterthought but a built‑in part of how we show up for our associates.

During large meetings and company‑wide events, we use live captions to make information more accessible in real time. We provide sensory bags, sensory warnings and quiet spaces to help reduce sensory overload and create environments where associates can participate in ways that work best for them. These thoughtful adjustments remove or minimize barriers, support different needs and reinforce a culture where associates feel seen, respected and able to engage fully.

By building accessibility into our everyday moments, we move beyond accommodation and toward belonging. This work reflects our belief that when associates can work in environments designed with their needs in mind, they are empowered to contribute their ideas, insights and creativity.

Collaborating With Kroger to Expand Impact

Our commitment to neurodiversity and accessibility also extends beyond 84.51° through collaboration with Kroger. We work closely with Kroger’s Autism at Work program, alongside the Our Abilities Associate Resource Group, to help create new resources that support neurodivergent associates and customers. These partnerships strengthen our ability to share knowledge, remove or minimize barriers and drive inclusive practices across the broader organization.

By collaborating across teams and programs, we amplify impact and reinforce the idea that accessibility and inclusion are shared responsibilities. Together, we are building tools and resources that help individuals succeed at work and feel supported in how they engage with our business.

Learning, Dialogue and Disability Pride

Education and awareness remain critical to sustaining an inclusive culture. Throughout the year, we host all‑associate internal programs focused on neurodivergence, disability pride and the importance of accessibility. These sessions create space for learning, open dialogue and deeper understanding of different lived experiences.

Whether through All Hands meeting segments, Two In The Know presentations or lunch and learn discussions, these programs help associates connect accessibility to our purpose and to the work we do every day. They also reinforce that inclusion is not owned by one team or moment—it is something we build together.

Inclusion as Part of Who We Are

Autism Acceptance Month reminds us that inclusion is not separate from our purpose at 84.51°. It is essential to it. When we listen to diverse voices, design accessible experiences and turn empathy into action, we strengthen our culture, deepen our humanity and improve the way we work. Through the leadership of 84.15, meaningful collaboration and continued education, we remain committed to creating spaces where all associates have the opportunity to belong and thrive.