By Medicine Hat News on October 2, 2020.
South Country Co-op Limited was officially recognized at REDI Enterprises Society’s annual general meeting this week with the 2020 Chair’s Award. Established in 2007, the award was created to recognize individuals, businesses and organizations that have contributed significantly to creating opportunities for people with disabilities to be included in the mainstream of the community. It acknowledges the efforts to create opportunities in the workplace, in daily living or in social and recreational activities. “Over the past 25 years the team at South Country Co-op have fiercely promoted workplace inclusion and value a community where everyone belongs.” said Rachel St. Jean, REDI’s board chair. “This last year has been exceptionally difficult during the COVID-19 pandemic but the Co-op has not wavered in this commitment. They have worked to ensure the individuals supported by REDI have been able to thrive.” Accepting the award was South Country Co-op chief executive officer Paul Haynes and Co-op employee MacKenzie Kehler. REDI is a not-for-profit organization that was established in 1952 and provides services and supports to persons with disabilities in Medicine Hat. Its mission is to enable individuals to attain respect, opportunity, and responsibility. REDI has been a driving force behind the movement to build a community where everyone belongs. 6