The Bhayana Family Foundation Awards recognize extraordinary contributions made by staff at United Way Toronto funded agencies. They are awarded by United Way Toronto based on peer nominations received in the following five categories: dedication, partnership builder, innovation & creativity, leadership and team achievement.

The dedication, creativity and team spirit shown by employees of agencies funded by United Way Toronto is essential to advancing the common good, community and neighbourhood building, and creating a better city for us all.

Social Planning Toronto Senior Researcher Beth Wilson won in the Leadership Awards Category where the purpose is "to recognize and reward employees who demonstrate exemplary leadership capabilities and consistently achieve superior, team-based results. These leaders play an exceptional role in helping others contribute to their organization and advance its mission."

From the United Way Release:

Beth Wilson of Social Planning Toronto

Beth Wilson is remarkably talented in her role as researcher at Social Planning Toronto. Her seven years experience have allowed her to become the strong and effective leader that she is today. Beth empowers others, providing opportunities that challenge and inspire. She never complains and yet she does more than her share of duties. In partnership with the Wellesley Institute and the Social Assistance in the New Economy (SANE), Beth researched to help with the production of two important reports "Poverty is Making Us Sick" and "Sick and Tired" which helped draw attention to the crisis of poverty in Ontario.

To quote her nominators: "Calm, tactful and incredibly hardworking she is able to steer any ship without upsetting the organizational balance, able to lead without being in the spotlight. Beth's strong commitment to social justice is reflected in her dedication to her work in support of marginalized individuals and communities. She knows – and shares – her facts, and uses them to promote equity, fairness, and compassion for all."

For more information on the awards visit the United Way of Toronto.