For EllisDon, safety and community are not just words on paper, but values and commitments that drive our actions. That’s why we’re proud to continue our support as a National Sponsor for Steps for Life, with eight of our offices participating in the walk.

“It starts with the drive to get involved in the community and community initiatives,” said Megan Smith, HSE Coordinator, Atlantic Canada, EllisDon and the Halifax Office Team Captain. “For me, it’s also personal. My dad is a welder, and we’ve had multiple close calls, even a fall we were lucky didn’t leave him paralyzed. Going through those moments makes you realize just how much support families need and how Steps for Life and Threads for Life provide that support.”

Steps for Life is a walk and fundraiser dedicated to families who have lost a loved one or been impacted by a workplace injury or illness. The money raised goes to Threads of Life, an organization that promotes public awareness and accountability for workplace health and safety. They also provide a plethora of peer support, family support, workshops, and resources, through a community that understands the impact of workplace tragedy, illness and injury.

“I started as a First Aid volunteer – didn't walk in my first event,” said Eric Dorval, Senior HSE Coordinator, EllisDon and the Vancouver Office Team Captain. “The key for me is paying it forward. We know things can happen in workplaces, not just in construction but in other industries as well. It’s been my goal since becoming captain to keep this team and this initiative growing. Last year we had about twenty people participate– this year, I’m aiming for 75.”

Participating in Steps for Life is a meaningful way to show our commitment to safety awareness and supporting those in our communities.

“I was a first responder to a workplace accident,” said Ben Quintin, Superintendent, Calgary, EllisDon and the Calgary Office Team Captain. “It was serious. EllisDon was kind enough to present us with commemorative coins for the work we did in those moments. I keep that under my computer screen as a constant reminder that we have to do everything we can to send everyone home safely. That’s part of what Steps for Life aims to do – awareness and prevention – and we’re all responsible for looking out for each other.”

Steps for Life events are taking place across Canada in late April and early May. For more information, visit the Steps for Life page.