In 2021, Michaels, the leading destination for creating and celebrating, launched its Makers Like Me (MLM) program, a key initiative designed to support candidates with disabilities. The program, which has now expanded to all of our 1,300 stores across North America, reinforces our commitment to building a diverse and talented team.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate among people with disabilities was 7.5% in 2024, roughly twice as high as the national average. Makers Like Me aims to empower individuals with disabilities across Michaels’ stores, distribution centers, Artistree custom framing locations, and Support Center. Through partnerships with national and local community organizations, the program also supports inclusive hiring practices, provides workplace accommodations and fosters environments where everyone can thrive.
Initially launched as a pilot in 2021, more than 1,300 new Team Members have been hired through Makers Like Me and have stayed with Michaels about 85% longer than the average employee.
Josh Murrey, Store Manager in Hurst, TX works with a number of employees with physical and intellectual disabilities and empowers them to help with stocking inventory, fulfilling omnichannel orders, manning self-checkout kiosks and greeting customers.
“It’s amazing to see what these Team Members are capable of when they’re given the opportunity to try something they’ve never been able to do before,” Josh Murrey said. “We have a strong crew in our store and our Makers Like Me colleagues are an essential part of it.”
To learn more about Makers Like Me and career opportunities at Michaels, visit careers.michaels.com.
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