For the second consecutive year, the Masonic Homes of California has been honored as a Top Workplace by the Bay Area News Group. The award is based on survey data collected by the technology firm Energate LLC that measures factors like company values, managers’ impact on employee growth, and employees’ connection to the larger mission. For the Masonic Homes of California, the designation is especially relevant this year, as it has emerged as a leader in its field in confronting the COVID-19 health crisis. At a time when many continuing-care retirement communities have struggled to adapt to the pandemic, MHC has demonstrated its commitment to safety, transparency, and mutual support. “To receive this honor in the midst of adapting our entire operations makes it even more meaningful,” says president and CEO Gary Charland.

The award, which MHC also received in 2019, is based on employee surveys performed by Energate that measure 15 different topics designed to capture an organization’s level of workplace engagement.

Through licensed retirement homes in Union City and Covina, the Masonic Center for Youth and Families, and Masonic Outreach Services, MHC provides care and services for some of California’s most vulnerable people. The organization, which employs more than 400 staff members across its campuses, was founded in 1898 and today provides outreach and services for hundreds of families across the state centered on four principals: safety, personal connection, experience, and efficiency. “Despite the changes we’ve made this year, those concepts remain our guides,” Charland says. “That said, it’s the way that our team members across all levels of the organization have embraced them that has made us so successful.”