Awards recognize social enterprises
Article via InsideToronto.com
A recent awards ceremony recognized the people and organizations in Toronto that are changing the way people think about solving the mental health inequity problem.
Enterpreneurism in Mental Health (SEMH) working group, in collaboration with MaRS Social Innovation Generation and Ashoka Canada hosted a celebration and awards ceremony for Toronto social enterprises that are making inroads in mental health equity.
SEMH have been examining how social entrepreneurship can reduce the large disparities in mental health experienced by marginalized groups in Canada.
Their most recent endeavor was a search for social enterprises in Toronto that are making inroads in mental health equity. They have sought out and been learning from organizations and services that have found innovative and effective ways of addressing mental health disparities. These organizations were recognized at a ceremony on January 18 at the Gladstone Hotel.
First place went to Good Foot Delivery based out of the Centre for Social Innovation Annex on Bathurst Street. Good Foot provides a personalized point-to-point delivery service on foot or via public transit as well as employment opportunities to people with developmental disabilities.
Second place went to Clean Works, a not-for-profit cleaning business whose employees have all identified themselves as individuals who are living with a severe and persistent mental illness and who want the opportunity to access competitive paid employment.
Third place was awarded to Rise Asset Development which provides micro financing and mentorship to men and women living with mental illness and addictions who are interested in pursuing self-employment.
Other nominees were: FABARNAK Restaurant and Catering, Gateway Linens, Out of this World Cafe and Parkdale Green Thumb Enterprises. (see original article)