For the third straight year, Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) has earned a spot on the Forbes list of Canada’s Best Employers.
Now in its 11th year, the Canada’s Best Employers awards recognize organizations that consistently foster exceptional workplace environments.
This ranking is presented in partnership with Statista, the world’s leading statistics portal and industry ranking provider.
To determine the 2026 recipients, Forbes and Statista conducted comprehensive research and an independent survey of more than 37,000 employees across the country.
Justin Turkingon, CKHA’s chief human resources officer, said nothing trumps teamwork.
“Focusing on our staff and fostering a positive work environment helps us build stronger teams, deliver better care, and achieve lasting success,” he said in a media release. “We are proud of the supports we have in place for our people – including wellness resources, opportunities for learning and growth, and a strong focus on both psychological and physical safety. When our teams feel supported and valued, it strengthens our ability to provide compassionate, high-quality care to our patients and families.”
To qualify for the award, companies were required to have a workforce of at least 500 employees.
Out of 1,300 organizations considered this year, the final list recognizes only the top 300 employers in Canada.
Realtors raise cash for housing effort
The Chatham-Kent Association of Realtors (CKAR) rocked on for Habitat for Humanity recently.
The association held its annual Realtors Rock event.
This year’s effort supported Habitat for Humanity Chatham-Kent.
The event brought together local realtors, community members, and local supporters for an evening of music, connection, and giving back.
The night featured live performances from The Courtney Wells Band, Karaoke Bob, and a lineup of realtor performers who took to the stage to showcase their musical passion.
Through door donations, a silent auction, a 50/50 draw, and community generosity, the event raised $1,100 in support of Habitat for Humanity.
As 2026 marks a build year for Habitat, these funds will directly contribute to furnishing a new home, providing a fridge and stove for a local family and helping to turn a house into a home.
Carrie Patrick, 2026 CKAR president, said the night shows what teamwork can do.
“Realtors Rock continues to be a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we come together as a community. Seeing our members and the public unite in support of Habitat for Humanity is incredibly inspiring,” she said in a media release. “This year, knowing our contributions will directly help furnish a home for a local family makes the impact even more meaningful.”
Anne Taylor, director of partnerships and stakeholder relations for Habitat for Humanity C-K, said the support is appreciated.
“We are always grateful for the continued support and generosity of the CKAR community. Events like Realtors Rock not only raise important funds but also bring people together in support of helping local families build strength, stability, and independence through affordable homeownership,” she said.
Offering curious gifts
Since quietly launching online in November, The Curious Gift Co. has been finding its rhythm; one thoughtful order, one market conversation, and one carefully packed box at a time.
Founded by local entrepreneur Kate do Forno, The Curious Gift Co. is a Canadian literary gift shop rooted in connection – through stories, through place, and through the simple act of giving something that feels just right.
Starting online wasn’t just practical, it was intentional.
“Launching this way let me test, learn, and grow at a pace that felt manageable,” do Forno said in a media release. “From shipping across Canada and the U.S. to meeting people at local markets, it’s helped me understand what people are really looking for – and how I can serve them better.”
The shop blends bookish goods with Canadiana and a growing collection of Chatham-Kent-inspired pieces.
The online model has allowed the business to grow steadily while building a community both locally and beyond.
The Curious Gift Co. is currently available online, shipping across Canada and the United States.
A century of innovation
One hundred seasons. One hundred harvests. Over the last century, the technology has changed, the tools have changed, but the heart of farming has stayed the same: the people who work the land, care for it, and pass it on to the next generation.
Pioneer marks 100 years globally and more than 80 years growing alongside Canadian farmers.
The Canadian story began here in Southwestern Ontario, with early Pioneer operations near Tilbury and later growth in Chatham. Generations later, that connection to this region remains as strong as ever, company officials said.
For more than eight decades in Canada, Pioneer has stood beside farmers through every season; through bumper crops and drought years, record yields and tough markets, quiet spring mornings and long harvest nights.
Across the country, Pioneer representatives are neighbours, friends, and community builders. They are agronomic experts, motivators, and sounding boards. They are the ones walking fields in spring, standing shoulder to shoulder with customers when the weather turns, and celebrating each year’s harvest. They are part of the community, coaching kids’ teams, supporting local causes, and volunteering at events that keep rural life strong. That is what it means to be part of the Pioneer family.
- Business Voice is a bi-monthly column in The Chatham Voice that highlights some of the achievements made and efforts underway in Chatham-Kent’s business community. Send your information to bruce@chathamvoice.com.
