By Sue Tiffin
Published Jan 16 2018
Haliburton County residents looking to thank the special professionals businesses and not-for-profits in their lives with extra recognition have one month left to nominate their choices for a Business and Community Achievement Award.
The 12th annual Business and Community Achievement Awards Gala held by the Haliburton Highlands Chamber of Commerce and attended by more than 200 people takes place on March 17. It’s at that gala that 12 prizes are awarded to winners who have shown innovation enthusiasm exceptional performance or service to customers clients and the area at large.
New this year is an award for the Young Professional of the Year acknowledging the chamber’s understanding of the value of young professionals in the area. Individuals under 35 years old who are leaders or innovative employees or business owners who contribute to the overall well-being of the community or are ambassadors for young people in the community can be nominated for the award.
“They are our future” said Richard Wannan chamber president. “We need people to recognize who they are and to support them.”
Wannan said the awards event continues to grow each year in popularity and support and has become one of the largest events held in the county.
“It’s recognizing the community” he said. “Especially in these times of change and whatnot going on to recognize these people in our community who are really contributing.”
Other categories in which businesses not-for-profits or individuals can be recognized are as follows: Business Achievement which recognizes a business that demonstrates outstanding achievement in their industry or community; Entrepreneur of the Year recognizing an entrepreneur with enthusiasm motivation and just the right amount of risk-taking; Skilled Trades and Industry which recognizes a business that demonstrates excellence in trade skill development and quality craftsmanship; New Business which recognizes a business that has been in operation for one to three years; Not-for-Profit of the Year which recognizes a not-for-profit that provides outstanding programs services events or campaigns; Innovation and Creativity recognizing a business with innovation and creativity; Tourism and Hospitality recognizing a business that has been instrumental in improving the allure of the Haliburton Highlands; Highlander of the Year which recognizes a citizen for outstanding contributions and community leadership; and two Customer First awards – one for business and one for employee which recognizes a company or customer’s exceptional performance in quality service.
A Warden’s Award chosen for an individual group team business or organization that has demonstrated significant achievements and contributions to the county and the people who live here is selected by the warden of the County of Haliburton.
Wannan said past nominees have been thrilled to be noticed and are always very grateful if they win.
“It’s the personal satisfaction for all the time and effort they’ve put in that others have recognized them for that and want them recognized” he said. “They glow when they win. It’s our own Oscars.”
Further information about each award including a nomination form is available at haliburtonchamber.com in the chamber of commerce office or at any branch of the Haliburton County Public Library. The nomination deadline is Thursday Feb. 15 at 4 p.m.
