80th Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony

Join us on October 20 at The Fred Rogers Center to honor the organizations and individuals who have made an impact in our community. It's going to be an evening full of celebration as we reflect on all of the accomplishments this year had to offer!

Please review each award’s purpose and criteria carefully before submitting your nomination.

Community Service Award

The Community Service Award recognizes an individual or organization that has demonstrated extraordinary dedication to improving the quality of life in our community through the generous contribution of time, talents, and resources. This award honors those whose service reflects integrity, compassion, and civic responsibility — without expectation of personal recognition or compensation.

Eligibility Criteria

-Nominee must be a current Chamber member in good standing.
-Nominee may be an individual, business, or organization.
-Nominee should demonstrate a history of significant service in one or more areas of community life.

Nomination Guidelines

-Provide examples of how the nominee has contributed time, talents, or resources.
-Highlight measurable outcomes or lasting impacts on the community.
-Share how the nominee inspires others through leadership and commitment.

Examples of Impact

-Leading or supporting community initiatives or programs.
-Long-term volunteer service in civic, cultural, or social organizations.
-Contributions that bring about meaningful and lasting change.

Volunteer of the Year Award

The Volunteer of the Year Award honors an individual whose volunteer service has had a profound impact on the Chamber and the community. This award highlights dedication, leadership, and personal commitment to advancing the Chamber’s mission through active participation in events, programs, and initiatives.

Eligibility Criteria

-Nominee must be a current Chamber member in good standing.
-Nominee must be an individual (not an organization).
-Service should directly support the Chamber’s projects, committees, or initiatives.

Nomination Guidelines

-Provide specific examples of the nominee’s volunteer contributions.
-Highlight the nominee’s leadership, reliability, and willingness to go above and beyond.
-Share how the nominee’s efforts have advanced the Chamber’s work or strengthened the community.

Examples of Impact

-Volunteering time to organize or lead Chamber events.
-Serving on Chamber committees, task forces, or initiatives.
-Mentoring other members or helping expand Chamber programs.

Small Business of the Year Award

The Small Business of the Year Award celebrates a locally owned business that demonstrates excellence in business practices, innovation, and community involvement. This award recognizes the vital role small businesses play in building personal connections, fostering community pride, and strengthening the regional economy.

Eligibility Criteria

-Nominee must be a current Chamber member in good standing.
-Business must be locally owned and operated.
-Business should show evidence of stability, innovation, and/or growth.
-Business should demonstrate community involvement or philanthropic support.

Nomination Guidelines

-Provide details of the business’s achievements, growth, or innovations.
-Share examples of how the business supports the community and the Chamber.
-Highlight how the business sets itself apart from larger competitors.

Examples of Impact

-Creating jobs or economic opportunities in the community.
-Supporting nonprofit organizations, schools, or civic programs.
-Offering exceptional customer service or innovative products/services.

Nonprofit of the Year Award

The Nonprofit of the Year Award honors a nonprofit organization that demonstrates excellence in advancing its mission while creating significant impact in the community. This award recognizes organizations that enrich the region through service, culture, advocacy, and programs that benefit both residents and visitors.

Eligibility Criteria

-Nominee must be a current Chamber member in good standing.
-Organization must be a registered nonprofit.
-Organization should demonstrate measurable results in serving the community.

Nomination Guidelines

-Provide examples of the organization’s programs, services, or initiatives.
-Highlight measurable outcomes and impact on the community.
-Share how the organization collaborates with others to achieve its mission.

Examples of Impact

-Expanding cultural, educational, or social opportunities for residents.
-Providing essential community services or support.
-Attracting visitors or fostering pride in the region through programs and events.

 Nomination Instructions

-Nominations must be submitted by Friday, Spetember 12.
-Each nomination should include a completed form, nominee information, and a written statement describing why the individual, business, or organization deserves the award.
-Supporting materials (letters of recommendation, articles, photos, etc.) may be included.