Mark Wafer, franchisee of six Tim Hortons restaurants in Toronto, has won the first annual leadership award from food-service association Restaurants Canada for advancing employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
“Mark has demonstrated it is possible to impact change for the better by creating opportunities for those who may be overlooked in the workplace,” says Restaurants Canada CEO Donna Dooher. “He has also been a strong and outspoken advocate for other employees to follow his lead. He truly exemplifies the spirit of hospitality and we are very pleased to recognize his outstanding leadership.”
Over the past 20 years, Wafer has hired 127 people with disabilities, for entry-level to logistics, production and management positions. Currently, his franchises employ 46 people with disabilities out of a total 250 employees.
“This award shines a bright light on the clear economic benefits of full inclusion of workers with disabilities in Canadian business, who are by far Canada’s largest untapped labour pool,” says Wafer.
Wafer will accept his award at the Breakfast with Champions event during the Restaurants Canada Show in Toronto on Mar. 1.
in the left-hand corner of your screen.