2024 Inclusive Employer of the Year – DME McDonald’s
The Inclusive Employer Excellence Awards (IEEA) is now accepting nominations to recognize employers in Abbotsford and Mission who are committed to creating diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplaces for people with disabilities.
The IEEA is organized by Archway Community Services, Bethesda Christian Association, Communitas Supportive Care Society, Mission Association for Community Living (MACL), and WorkBC Abbotsford/Mission.
Established in 2017, the event has steadily grown by inviting more businesses each year who are committed to hiring those with disabilities.
“At the IEEA, we don’t just celebrate inclusive workplaces, we also help raise awareness about the value of inclusive hiring practices among local businesses,” said Stacey Murdoch, the employment services manager at Communitas Supportive Care Society.
Marco Pasqua, a professional public speaker and award-winning entrepreneur with Cerebral Palsy, will speak at the event this year. As an advocate for people with disabilities, his speaking topics are focused on his personal stories of overcoming obstacles and managing major life transitions. Much of his work as an entrepreneur revolves around social impact and improving accessibility in the tech industry.
The IEEA committee is currently seeking nominations from the local community in five categories:
- Outstanding Commitment to Inclusive Hiring
- Creative Workplace Accommodations
- Community Champion for Inclusive Employment
- Emergent Inclusive Employer
- Inclusive Employer of the Year
Nominations can be submitted online. Nominations are open until August 15, 2025. The awards recipients will be announced at the breakfast event this fall.
Please visit our website to learn more about the nominating process and information on each award category.
“At the IEEA, we don’t just celebrate inclusive workplaces, we also help raise awareness about the value of inclusive hiring practices among local businesses.”
