After two years off, the annual Gord Smith Healthy Workplace Awards are returning with an in-person celebration.
The award ceremony itself will be held on November 16 at the Ciociaro Club, but for now, the Working Toward Wellness Committee is looking for Windsor-Essex businesses to submit applications. The deadline to apply is October 7 and organizers are requesting notification of an intention to apply by the end of August.
"The last couple of years have been very challenging for employers and employees," Jon Beveridge, the Working Toward Wellness Committee Chair said. "The Workplace Wellness Awards are an opportunity to recognize the amazing and often innovative ways that employers are improving safety and overall wellness."
Businesses can apply for one of five levels of the award – Rising Star (entry-level), Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum.
Previous winners and nominees are encouraged to run for the same level of award, or higher to show how their practices have evolved over the last few years.
"Last year we recognized 18 workplaces for their fantastic work – especially during the pandemic. We are hopeful that more will apply this year. It’s a fantastic way to recognize the efforts of staff," Beveridge added.
The list of winners from 2020 can be found here.
Award-winning employers will receive a plaque that can be displayed at their workplace, a customized decal for e-mail signatures, and community recognition at the annual awards ceremony.
Applications and more information can be found on Windsor's Canadian Mental Health Association webpage.