Page 12 - 01-Jan-Feb-2024

Sponsored Feature
Edmonton Chamber of Commerce
The Difference Makers
These award winners show that good business is about more than bottom lines
EDMONTON'S ENTREPRENEURS CARE
about more than just bottom lines. They think about giving back to their communities — and making Edmonton a better place
to call home. The Edmonton Chamber
of Commerce's Northern Lights Award
of Distinction recognizes a business or individual making positive and lasting contributions to the communities they serve.
The Community Impact Award goes to an individual or organization that demonstrates exceptional commitment to community service. It's about a long-term dedication to being part of an inclusive community, and a devotion to social responsibility.
Community Impact Award:
Leading Edge Physiotherapy
For more than 16 years, Leading Edge Physiotherapy has been a positive force in the community. The company was founded on a simple premise: to support health
and success for individuals, as well as the greater community.
“We knew that we could make a difference in the lives of our patients one at a time through our work as physios, but we wanted to do something much bigger and make a difference in the lives of the larger community,” says President and CEO Grant Fedoruk.
“A healthy community allows for a healthy business, so I mean, it's a win- win situation.”
Fedoruk explains that the company’s commitment to community permeates every aspect of its operations. Each staff member shares the values of wanting to have a positive impact.
Founders and Owners of Leading Edge Physiotherapy, Grant Fedoruk and Heidi Fedoruk
“It actually starts with everyone inside the organization understanding that the point of the business isn't
for business sake, but is to make a difference,” he says.
“Fortunately in the health-care world, we attract people who want to make a difference. So we hire people who have the same kind of values, who know that there's more to go into work than just earning a paycheque.”
Instead of celebrating staff birthdays with a cake or more traditional party, Leading Edge uses the opportunity to give back to a staff member’s charity of choice. Staff also take time to visit and tour some of the local organizations they support,
to better understand their operations and the need for their services. The company also makes a point of finding the fun in giving back. Staff routinely attend community events, galas, even golf or pickleball tournaments, all in the names of good causes.
“The beauty of a business where you enjoy each other's company, and combine that with going to these kinds of events, it's just another opportunity for us to spend time with one another, and make a difference at the same time,” he says.
Since 2011, Leading Edge has also organized RunWild, a walk and run in support of local charities. Over the years, the run has raised more than