Despite its humble thrift store origins a century ago, social purpose enterprises have been gaining ground in recent years as a viable form of both employment and skills training. Now, a Toronto-based recycling operation is taking things in a different direction with a new twist on an old model. 

When Graham Lewis stepped up to accept the award for Business Achievement Employer of the Year, from the Job Opportunity Information Network back in December 2016, it came as something of a surprise. 

In business less than a year, Red Propeller has been making a name for itself in a number of ways. As an innovative recycler of materials others have yet to consider; as Canada’s only program dedicated VHS tape recycler, and as an employer committed to hiring people with barriers, including learning disabilities and ADHD.