“Cheers to Inclusion” Dinner Highlights Commitment to Inclusive Workforce in Thunder Bay
The Slovak Legion in Thunder Bay is set to host the “Cheers to Inclusion” dinner, an event that underscores the importance of diversity and inclusivity within the local business community. Scheduled during Disability Employment Awareness Month, this occasion celebrates the efforts of local enterprises that support a diverse workforce by hiring individuals with disabilities.
Highlighting Local Contributions
Supported by the Ontario Disability Employment Network, the event aims to acknowledge and reward the contributions of local businesses that have actively engaged in inclusive hiring practices. Todd Kennedy, a regional manager with March of Dimes Canada, emphasizes the significance of these efforts. “Over 50 employers in Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario are leading by example,” he noted. “Employing individuals with disabilities not only diversifies the workforce but also enriches it with unique skills and perspectives.”
Economic and Community Benefits
Research consistently points to numerous benefits for businesses that adopt inclusive employment practices. Companies that embrace diversity are likely to see enhancements in productivity and profitability. Studies reveal that businesses with diverse teams are capable of growing profits three times faster than those that are less inclusive. The implications for the local economy in Thunder Bay and beyond are substantial, promising potential financial growth and stability.
Moreover, these businesses enjoy higher employee retention rates, which reduces the costs associated with recruitment and training. Consumer perception also improves significantly, with 92% of consumers viewing inclusive companies more favorably—potentially leading to higher customer loyalty and engagement.
“There’s a tangible advantage to inclusivity,” Kennedy mentions. “The higher retention means less turnover and more consistent team productivity, which directly impacts the bottom line positively.”
Fostering Innovation and Creativity
Beyond economic metrics, an inclusive workforce serves as a catalyst for enhanced creativity and innovation. When diverse perspectives converge, new ideas are sparked, enabling businesses to craft products and services that appeal to a broader audience. This diversity-driven creativity not only helps meet customer needs more effectively but also ensures that businesses stay competitive in an ever-evolving market.
Local resident and business owner Elaine Rogers endorses this view: “Our team is stronger because it reflects a tapestry of experiences and ideas. This diversity allows us to tackle challenges creatively and drives our innovation.”
Awards and Recognition
Two significant awards will be presented during the “Cheers to Inclusion” dinner to local employers who have distinguished themselves through exemplary inclusive employment practices. These businesses have not only succeeded internally but also support the community as mentors, helping other businesses understand the practical benefits of hiring individuals with disabilities.
James Thornton, a recipient of the award last year, emphasizes the importance of such recognition. “It’s not just about the accolades,” he says. “It’s about encouraging others in the community to see the value in inclusivity—socially and economically.”
Continuing the Conversation
The “Cheers to Inclusion” event is more than just an evening of celebration; it serves as a platform for conversation and collaboration. Businesses interested in exploring inclusive hiring are encouraged to connect with organizations like March of Dimes Canada, which offers employment services and guidance.
Interested parties can reach out directly to Todd Kennedy’s team at March of Dimes Canada at 807-345-6595 for insights into creating inclusive workplaces.
Beyond the Event
The impacts of initiatives like the “Cheers to Inclusion” dinner extend well beyond the confines of the Slovak Legion. They resonate through the local business ecosystem and the broader Thunder Bay community. Encouraging inclusivity within the workplace has ramifications for employment rates, economic health, and societal attitudes.
While the event specifically shines a spotlight on Disability Employment Awareness Month, the principles championed during the dinner call for year-round commitment to diversity and inclusivity. As the community continues to transition toward a more inclusive mindset, the expected outcome is not solely economic gain, but genuine strides toward social equality and cohesion.
For Thunder Bay residents, this event symbolizes a growing recognition of the value of every individual’s contribution. The community stands to gain culturally and economically through sustained efforts and collaboration, setting a benchmark for other regions to follow.
The “Cheers to Inclusion” dinner, therefore, not only celebrates achievements to date but also extends an invitation to businesses and residents alike to imagine and work towards a more inclusive future—one where diversity is seen as a strength and inclusivity is integrated into the core fabric of the community.
