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Rona manager receives award for workplace inclusion in Chilliwack

A Chilliwack store manager was acknowledged last week by Community Living B.C. (CLBC) for embracing workplace inclusion.
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Rona store manager

A Chilliwack store manager was acknowledged last week by Community Living B.C. (CLBC) for embracing workplace inclusion.

Kris Krentz, manager of Rona, was nominated by his employee, Matthew Benjamin, for a Widening Our World (WOW) Award.

Benjamin has worked at Rona since April 2014 with support from Chilliwack Society for Community Living (CSCL). In his nomination, he stated Krentz and the staff at Rona have embraced inclusion and provided him with the same work experience and expectations they would any other employee.

“As I became more familiar with the store layout and the product I have become more confident and strive to learn and get even better at my job," says Benjamin. "I really enjoy working at Rona. The staff there is very nice and friendly. They have made me feel a part of the team from the start.”

This year, 80 employers from around the province were nominated. Krentz was only one of four who received a WOW award.

Since 2009, the WOW awards have recognized the contributions and innovations of people who are working to build communities that are accepting of all abilities. This year’s awards theme focused on inclusive employment.  As part of the three-year Community Action Employment Plan, British Columbians were asked to nominate employers who are hiring adults CLBC serves and creating positive, inclusive workplaces where everyone feels welcome, valued and respected.