A pair of local business owners has received the Premier’s Award of Excellence in Employment.
Gordon and Barbara Drummond, owners of the Tim Horton’s in Peace River and Valleyview. (Photo/Courtesy of Facebook)
Gordon and Barbara Drummond currently own the Tim Horton’s restaurant franchises in both Peace River and Valleyview.
Gordon says the news that they had won the award came in as a shock.
“It took us a little bit by surprise, to be honest,” said Mr. Drummond. “It really did catch me off guard.”
Barbara says they’re not sure who exactly nominated them for the award.
“Somebody in the community took it upon themselves to nominate us for the Premier’s Council Award,” said Mrs. Drummond. “When we asked if we were able to find out who nominated us, (organizers) said that it was private information. But we’re certainly honoured, and humbled by it, for sure.”
According to the Alberta Human Services website, the two have provided a wide range of supports and initiative that contribute to an inclusive community for persons with disabilities, as well as their families located within the Peace Country.
Peace River Tim Horton’s. (File Photo)
“We are really grateful to have the opportunity to allow inclusive employment with our team members at our restaurants,” said Barbara. “We’re very fortunate that our team members are accepting, kind and compassionate, along with guests, who are more than patient with some of our team members.”
She says they’re very grateful to be part of the Peace Country community.
“This community allows us to create ways for persons with disabilities to communicate freely in the community,” Mrs. Drummond said.
The AM 610 Newsroom asked where they go from here now that they’ve won the award.
“Back to work,” said Mr. Drummond.
Human Services says Gordon and Barbara have made accommodations to their storefront schedule and workplace policies to respond to what their employees with disabilities need to be included and successful in their roles.
The winners were officially announced on Saturday.
More information can be found at the following webpage:
http://www.humanservices.alberta.ca/department/premiers-council-award-winners-2016.html#drummond
– Posted by BET
