Testimonials about Rob Ellis and Our Youth at Work
Here's what just a few Safety Champions are saying about Rob Ellis and his Our Youth at Work foundation:
Employers:
"What you're talking about is starting to bubble up more and more: employers who can challenge, train, educate and elevate young people. Talent management is key right now....and safety is at the heart of every good organization."
- Bryan Demarchi, Head of Human Resources, Goodyear
“Rob Ellis had a powerful message to convey to the workers of the plant and office on parents’ responsibility in making sure that our children work in a safe environment. Many employees were deeply touched by Mr. Ellis’ courage to open up about his painful experience… [His] testimony had such an impact on the Norampac St. Marys team that we have re-invited him to the division to speak to Norampac’s Senior Management and managers of other divisions.”
- Marie-Eve Blais, Human Resources Manager, Norampac Inc.
"You noted that you are looking for leaders and organizations to come with you and speak to our youth to listen to what they have to say and provide them with advice. I would like to get our organization involved."
- Tim Alles, Manager of Loss Prevention, Waterloo North Hydro
"In 20 years in caring for others, I have NEVER been so wrapped up in a speech before."
- George Chaiban, General Manager, Quality Hotel, Ottawa, Ontario
“We had asked Mr. Ellis to speak to our staff to encourage them to do even better… [his] down to earth, heart-to-heart, and parent-to-parent style is captivating. His injection of humour and life at a moment of grief and hardship kept his audience with him and listening. Our staff… need to able to talk to each other, and help each other especially when it comes to a person’s safety.”
- George Minow, Safety Supervisor, Kitchener-Wilmot Hydro Inc., Ontario
Employees:
"I would like to help present this topic of safety to the next generation of employees. I am glad that our plant is going to include your video, "We Miss David" to all new employees as part of orientation... I would also like to return to my former high school... to present orientation and training."
- Rob Powell, Trainer, Tublar Products, Dofasco, Inc.
Educators:
“Rob's presentation was spell-binding. He held the students' attention all the time he spoke, and passed on to all in attendance some very important and timely reminders about safety in the workplace. The insight provided by his personal story should be seen and heard by all workers, young and old… Thank you for providing an excellent educational opportunity for our students, and for enhancing the community partnership between our organizations.”
- G.A. Mowat, Principal, Michipicoten High School, Wawa, Ontario
"We are hosting our annual Chair’s Luncheon for approximately 80 of our corporate sponsors. Would you do us the honour of being this year’s speaker?... You are a very brave man; I don’t know anyone else who could keep reliving such a tragic experience for the betterment of others. You are obviously making a difference."
- Gail Smyth, Director, SkillsCanada
Parents:
"As the mother of 19 and 20-year-old children, I can only imagine the pain that Rob and his family have endured through the loss of David. Rob's presentation opened my eyes to the possibility that I, or any of us, could lose a loved one, unless a change in attitude, awareness and action takes place. I plan to spread the word both to my family and to the people whose paths I cross.
- Catherine Stevenson, World Vision
