Nominations are now open for the 25th annual Power of Work Awards, hosted by Goodwill of Southwestern Pennsylvania. The Power of Work Awards recognizes businesses in two categories – those that HIRE people with disabilities and/or other barriers to employment; and those that HELP workforce development by going the “extra mile” to offer work-related support and experiences.
Also, introduced in 2018 was the Goodwill Power of Work Legacy Award. Winners of the Legacy award make up a small, elite group of businesses who are helping to grow our region’s workforce. UPMC won the inaugural Legacy award in 2018. In celebration of the 25th anniversary of the Power of Work Awards, Goodwill SWPA plans to recognize another worthy business at this year’s ceremony.
The nomination deadline is March 4, 2022. Winners will be honored at an awards ceremony on Friday, April 29, 2022 at the Sheraton Station Square. The event will also be live streamed to registered attendees.
The goal of the Power of Work Awards program is to recognize the extraordinary workforce development efforts of local businesses and their impact on the community, especially for people with disabilities and employment barriers. Since the program’s inception in 1997, Goodwill has bestowed Power of Work awards to more than 60 different southwestern Pennsylvania area businesses.
The 2021 Power of Work Awards ceremony was held virtually on April 9, 2021 and attendees watched via Zoom. “This year we are excited to be able to gather and celebrate in person again,” said Gabi Lloyd, Development Specialist for Goodwill SWPA. “It seems like it’s been a decade since the last in person, ballroom-style event and it’s extra special because it’s the 25th year. We can’t wait to honor businesses that continue to show empathy despite some of the struggles they may be facing themselves. Anyone can submit a nomination and businesses are strongly encouraged to nominate themselves.”
Winners of the 2021 Power of Work Awards in the HIRE category were Giant Eagle and Surge Staffing for their exceptional hiring principles, which include efforts to hire people who have criminal backgrounds, little work experience and people with disabilities. Bethel Bakery and Styling By Chi were the recipients of HELP category awards for their dedication to making sure everyone is accepted and has the opportunity to be the very best version of themselves.
An independent panel of judges with a forward-thinking vision of a diverse, inclusive and equitable world, and who represent the human services, higher education and community investment sectors, will evaluate the nominees’ efforts in creating enhanced opportunities for people who face employment barriers. Nominations can be submitted online at www.goodwillncwv.org/powerofwork. For more information, contact Gabi Lloyd at 412-632-1931 or powerofwork@goodwillswpa.org.