Accent Inns employees across BC handed out thank you cards and gift cards to BC Transit employees on Wednesday to recognize them for their uninterrupted work during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Accent Inns is a BC-based hotel chain with hotels in Kelowna, Kamloops, Burnaby, Richmond, and Victoria. 500 of their employees spent the day thanking the most important drivers.
“During the pandemic as a company, we really looked for ways we could reach and support our local community,” said Natalie Corbett, director of continuous improvement at Accent Inns Kelowna.
“It started last spring with our hotel program for frontline employees, where we gave frontline employees who had to self-isolate free stays.”
Looking for another way to give something back, one employee suggested recognizing transit drivers as they rely on transit themselves and regardless of the COVID-19 restrictions in place, they appreciate the bus divers providing them with a reliable trip to work every day .
According to Corbett, the bus drivers’ reactions to the kind actions have been extremely positive and rewarding.
“A lot of surprise, a lot of thanks, a lot of appreciation that it was a very tough year for you and that it’s nice to have a smiling face under a mask,” she laughs.
The hotel chain bought thousands of dollars in $ 25 gift cards along with handwritten cards.
“Thank you Accent Inns for taking the initiative to recognize our transit companies in Victoria, Kelowna and Kamloops with this meaningful gesture,” said Erinn Pinkerton, President of BC Transit.
“Our transit operators and frontline workers provide transit services that our customers can rely on throughout the pandemic. Recognition from organizations and customers helps reaffirm their importance to the communities they serve. “
Transit Driver Recognition Day is March 18, and Accent Inns hopes this will inspire others to recognize and thank important contributors in their community.
