Background
Since 2001, the editors of Canada's Top 100 Employers have published an annual list of the best workplaces for older Canadians. In 2007, this list was expanded to recognize the "Top Employers for Canadians Over 50". These employers are Canada's leaders in creating special programs and benefits for employees over 50 years of age and are attracting older workers who are interested in these special initiatives.

Selection Process
Each employer is evaluated by the editors of Canada's Top 100 Employers in terms of: (1) whether they have any interesting programs that are specifically designed to assist older workers; (2) whether they actively recruit new workers aged 50 years or older; (3) whether they make it easier for older workers to join their organization from other jobs, such as by recognizing prior work experience in determining vacation allowance; (4) whether they offer a pension pension with attractive matching employer contributions; (5) whether they assist older employees with retirement and succession planning; (6) whether they create opportunities for their retirees to stay socially connected to former co-workers through organized social activities and volunteering; (7) whether they extend health coverage and similar benefits to their employees after retirement; and (8) whether they offer any programs, such as mentorship and phased-in retirement, to ease the emotional challenges of retirement and ensure older employees' skill sets are transferred to the next generation.

Eligibility Requirements
Any employer operating in Canada may apply for this competition. Employers of any size may apply, whether private or public sector.

2008 Competition
The winners of this competition will be announced by Mediacorp editors in the spring of 2008.

How to Apply
Employers apply for this competition through the Canada's Top 100 Employers application process. Employers complete a single application package for both competitions. Request an application.

Further Information
For more information on the Top Employers for Canadians Over 50 competition, please contact us.

2007 Winners:
[Until 2007, this competition was called the Top Ten Employers for Experienced Workers and published annually as an appendix published with Canada's Top 100 Employers.]

North Atlantic Refining Ltd.
Kwantlen University College
Dofasco Inc.
Progressive Solutions Inc.
Toronto Hydro Corporation
Canada Post Corporation
University of Toronto
New Flyer Industries Canada
Enbridge Inc.
Royal Canadian Mounted Police

With an average employee age ranging from 44 to 48, these employers all offer generous pension plans or matching RSP contributions (sometimes both), and often extend health coverage to their retired employees.