Rainbows was recently awarded the 2016 Better Business Bureau Integrity Award. The BBB states the Award focuses on demonstrated ethical business practices with key stakeholders including customers, employees and community at large, rather than a company’s growth, profitability or popularity.
Integrity is defined as: choosing courage over comfort; choosing what is right over what is fun, fast or easy; and choosing to practice our values rather than simply professing them.
It is an honor for Rainbows, our 290 employees, 20 Board members, the 3,500 children with special needs and their families that we serve, along with more than 760 volunteers who make a difference every day. Thanks to BBB, we celebrated. The BBB coordinated three celebrations and presentations so our employees and Board could be together, learn more about the BBB, the award, plus recognize ethical business practices.
As part of the presentations we learned one thing that stood out to the independent panel of judges in the lengthy application was Rainbows’ Guiding Principles and the integration of them into every day decision making. As employees, we see them every day in the lobby of our centers, wear them as part of our nametags, focus on them at trainings as well as use them to guide our daily decision making. As part of Rainbows’ culture, we believe in our mission and we hold fast to the principle that states: Operate with honesty, integrity and accountability.
We’re humbled as we continue to hear comments from past employees and families as they find out about the award on social and traditional media. Employees said, “I am honored that the company I work for is awarded for integrity.” Parents remarked, “Well deserved. Our son loves you guys, so do we!” What encouragement to us all.
“We hear over and over again, how our talented and professional staff alongside our strong board members, impact the lives of children with special needs and their families,” said Deb Voth, President of Rainbows. “It’s because of their passion and commitment to our Guiding Principles that make this award possible. Our thanks go to the BBB for making it possible to celebrate this honor with our staff and board members in a meaningful way.”
