Honoring Gord Hicks with the King Charles III Coronation Medal
Gord Hicks C.M., the CEO of BGIS, has been honored with the King Charles III Coronation Medal, recognizing his extensive commitment to youth mental health advocacy. For a decade, Hicks has actively supported initiatives with Kids Help Phone, contributing significantly to the well-being of young Canadians.
The Purpose of the Coronation Medal
The King Charles III Coronation Medal celebrates the remarkable contributions of Canadians who have positively impacted their communities. This prestigious award is administered by the Chancellery of Honours at Rideau Hall and acknowledges individuals who have excelled in various fields, enhancing the lives of others through their service.
A Personal Mission Driven by Tragedy
Gord's journey into youth mental health advocacy was born from personal tragedy. After losing his 19-year-old son, Cameron, in a tragic accident, Gord and his family were motivated to create a supportive environment for youth facing similar struggles. This led to the establishment of the Cam's Kids Foundation, aimed at providing guidance and support to young people dealing with anxiety and mental health challenges.
The Impact of Cam's Kids Foundation
The Cam's Kids Foundation has positively impacted hundreds of thousands of young Canadians over the last eight years, utilizing a network of over 2,000 dedicated volunteer ambassadors. These ambassadors have facilitated peer-to-peer support, helping young people navigate their difficulties. In 2019, Cam's Kids partnered with Kids Help Phone to broaden their reach and support, culminating in a merger that enhanced their collective resources in 2023.
Leading the Charge for Mental Wellness
Beyond his work with Cam's Kids, Gord has served on the Board of Directors for Kids Help Phone since 2019, continuing to advocate for mental health and wellness around the globe. His passion for mental wellness extends into BGIS, where he emphasizes a foundational commitment to mental health programs as part of the organizational culture.
BGIS's Commitment to Health and Well-Being
Under Gord's leadership, BGIS is striving towards becoming the Healthiest Company in the World. Integral to this vision is a robust mental health program that focuses on cultivating awareness and support within the workplace. Gord advocates for forming a network of trained Mental Health Leaders within BGIS, enabling them to recognize distress signals and provide the necessary support for employees.
Creating Healthier Work Environments
BGIS is spearheading initiatives across the Real Estate industry to establish healthier environments for work, living, and recreation. Through their innovative Blue Zone Buildings™ Program, they aim to enhance community wellness and foster productive spaces, contributing to a prosperous future for upcoming generations.
About BGIS
BGIS, a renowned entity within the integrated facility management sector and part of CCMP Capital Advisors, L.P., employs over 12,000 individuals committed to delivering innovative solutions that benefit their clients. With a significant global presence, BGIS manages an impressive portfolio of facilities across various sectors, including healthcare, telecommunications, financial services, and more. They are especially recognized for their expertise in managing critical environments, ensuring efficiency and sustainability in all their operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the King Charles III Coronation Medal?
The medal celebrates exceptional Canadians who have made significant contributions to their communities and the country.
Why was Gord Hicks awarded the medal?
Gord Hicks received the medal for his long-term commitment to youth mental health and advocacy efforts, particularly through Kids Help Phone.
What is the Cam's Kids Foundation?
Founded by Gord Hicks's family, the Cam's Kids Foundation supports youth dealing with mental health challenges, providing resources and peer support.
How does BGIS promote mental health?
BGIS emphasizes mental wellness through leadership training and a dedicated mental health program as part of their organizational culture.
What services does BGIS offer?
BGIS is a leader in integrated facility management, serving various sectors with a focus on innovative service solutions and sustainability.
