QHR Technology is not only known for their skills in creating software for healthcare professionals, but for the strength of their philanthropic bone and drive to support their community.

Making a point to give back in more ways than one, the tech company works closely with organizations like the Central Okanagan Food Bank, United Way, Canadian Cancer Society and more.

Photo credit: QHR Facebook

In addition to making a difference outside of their workplace, the staff and management at QHR Kelowna are working hard to bolster diversity and morality within their office walls by creating vital opportunities for those with diverse abilities in the Okanagan.

For the last three or so years, QHR has built a strong relationship with Pathways Abilities Society, having welcomed four employees through their doors to explore various employment and learning opportunities.

“I remember hearing about the program a few years ago and being a bit unclear at first as to how to gauge if we would be a good fit, but Pathways worked to help us identify the ways that their employees would help us out,” said QHR president, Mike Checkley.

Photo credit: NowMediaQHR office Manager Colleen, and Pathways employee Charity

“We gave it a go with one person and now we have had four employees from Pathways over the years that have been super helpful, they have exceeded our expectations with their ability to work with and help us find great fits,” he added.

Currently, QHR has two Pathways team members working with them, Deanna who helps with marketing, and Charity who helps to keep the office clean, organized and fully stocked.

According to Checkley, not only do Deanna and Charity do great work, they also help to boost office morale and foster a diverse workplace.

Photo credit: NowMedia

“Having them onboard helps us to send a message of diversity. It sends a great message to staff and truly they are helpful in making this a better place to work,” said Checkley.

Charity has worked in the QHR office for just shy of one year and according to her teammates, her smile and enthusiasm are infectious.

“She is always really smiley and you can tell it definitely does boost our office morale,” said Colleen Safinuk, office manager.

Photo credit: NowMedia

Not only does Charity’s sparkling personality have a positive impact, but her hard work does not go unnoticed.

“We work in a large office and we have a big programming department and thanks to Charity we are working in an organized, clean environment with all sorts of perks,” said Checkley.

Over the course of QHR’s relationship with Pathways, Checkley has become so impressed that he even wants to challenge other local businesses to get involved with the organization.

Photo credit: NowMedia

“I always encourage other employers to check it out. I say ‘All it is, is a conversation with Pathways, you will be surprised with how easy their process is and the benefits are so well worth it,’” he said.

“I would even put out a challenge to other businesses in town because we’ve now done a fair bit of work with them over the years and it has just worked out so well.”

Pathways Abilities Society is a non-profit organization providing services to individuals with diverse abilities in the Central Okanagan for over 60 years.

Among the services it provides, Pathways connects local progressive businesses with individuals with diverse abilities, developing customized employment programs that put diverse abilities to work in our community.