Our Vision
To reduce underemployment for the neurodivergent community by empowering individuals and transforming hiring practices.
Located in Historic Downtown Littleton and on the Mosaic Community Campus, DIRT is a local, non-profit social enterprise on a journey to bring you quality crafted coffee, food, and drink while training, employing & empowering neurodivergent individuals by transforming hiring practices.
DIRT addresses inequitable neurodivergent employment rates by working collaboratively with neurodivergent individuals, employers, and communities. We train and motivate job seekers and support employers in hiring, promoting, and retaining neurodivergent individuals and enhancing organizational culture.
Unlocking the potential of neurodivergent inclusion with our four high-quality, evidence-based programs tailored for both employees and employers. These programs empower neurodivergent individuals to thrive in the workplace while providing employers with the tools and knowledge to create an inclusive and supportive environment.
For the past ten years, DIRT (Divergent Inclusive Representation Transforms) has been dedicated to serving the community and transforming workspaces for the neurodivergent population. Starting as a mobile coffee truck in 2013, DIRT has grown to encompass two brick-and-mortar locations in Littleton and Denver.
So far in 2023, over 900 people have been positively impacted by DIRT’s programming: internships, workshops, job development, workforce employers, and DIRT on the Road.
In 2018, DIRT opened the doors to its first brick-and-mortar location to train, employ, and place neurodivergent individuals in meaningful, competitive, integrated employment. While providing on-the-job training for our interns and simultaneously working with employers and the community at large, we offer comprehensive and individualized services to reduce un- and underemployment rates for neurodivergent individuals and transform hiring practices.
DIRT offers a customized internship program for neurodivergent individuals seeking work experience. Through this program, participants gain confidence, practical skills, and a better understanding of their employment strengths while overcoming barriers. With paid work experience, individualized job coaching, and monthly social outings, DIRT provides ongoing support for future job placements.
In 2023, DIRT offers employment-focused workshops to enhance foundational work skills and provide insight into the job experience. Topics covered include self-advocacy, coping skills, budgeting, work-life balance, and maintaining healthy boundaries in the workplace. Join us to gain valuable knowledge and tools for navigating the world of work.
DIRT's employer program is dedicated to improving disability hiring practices and promoting the inclusion of neurodivergent individuals in the workforce. By providing individualized training, consultations, and informative sessions, employers gain the knowledge and tools to effectively hire, retain, and collaborate with neurodivergent employees, resulting in a more inclusive work environment.
Join DIRT as we hit the road with our mobile coffee truck, raising awareness about the low employment rate for neurodivergent folks. Engaging the greater community, we aim to ensure that communities and partners understand the barriers and resources needed to support interdependence. And make a positive impact on employment opportunities for all abilities.
A lot of the learning comes on the job. I took the first step, which is starting the internship. The most important thing I learned, if you are scared to try something like this - you should do it anyway. It will be worth it! I’d tell them that they should just go for it! I was a little bit worried that the coaching would be for people more impacted, but it still helped me. Don’t be afraid to say things and advocate for yourself!
A team of dedicated individuals who are driven by a shared vision of creating positive change in our community. Each member of our team brings unique skills, experiences, and unwavering commitment to our mission. Together we work collaboratively, to create impactful programs and coffee experiences that uplift and empower individuals and communities.
Get involved with our nonprofit organization and make a difference in your community. Join us in our mission to create positive change by signing up to be part of our programming, volunteering, or donating. Together, we can make a significant impact on reducing the inequitable unemployment and underemployment rate for neurodivergent individuals.
