EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS AWARD (3 Categories): Recognizes businesses for demonstrating overall stability, a positive public image, and setting an example of community service, including civic and volunteer work:
Small (no more than 10 employees)
Medium (no more than 60 employees)
Large (61 or more employees)
JOHN ANDERSON AWARD: recognizes groups, companies or individuals which have enriched the County with an outstanding contribution to the community.
BUSINESS HALL OF FAME AWARD: honors a Bedford County business which has had a lasting, positive impact on Bedford County commerce, and which have been in operation in the County for at least 25 years:
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR: recognizes Bedford County residents of any age who personify the finest spirit of volunteerism by giving generously of themselves to improve the community's quality of life.
PROPERTY IMPROVEMENT AWARD: recognizes a business which has significantly improved the appearance of its facility through renovation, landscaping, redecorating, etc.
HERITAGE PRESERVATION AWARD: recognizes the business or organization which has shown a significant commitment to preserving the heritage of Bedford County.
EMPLOYER COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD: recognizes a business which has actively supported employee participation in volunteer activities that improve the community.
EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION: recognizes a person, business or organization for their efforts in enriching children, adults and/or the community through learning. For example: heritage awareness, creative arts, workforce development/career exploration, etc. Please note: this newly-redefined award is NOT intended for an educator within the formal school system. The Chamber Foundation has created a series of new awards to honor professional educators through a separate application process.
EXCELLENCE IN AGRI-BUSINESS: recognizes the Bedford County farm or agriculture-related business which demonstrates outstanding stewardship of land and livestock, application of technology and/or innovative marketing and civic involvement.
LEADERSHIP: given to a graduate of Leadership Bedford County for a sustained commitment to servant leadership; nominations by LBC alumni; voting by Chamber Foundation Directors & LBC Advisory Board.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AWARD: presented in partnership with the Bedford County Development Assoc., recognizes excellence in management and commitment to community development; selected by BCDA.
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS AWARD: presented in partnership with Bedford County Community Connections, recognizes a business for showing dedication to hiring individuals with disabilities.
EXCELLENCE IN TOURISM: presented in partnership with the Bedford County Visitors Bureau; recognizes excellence in management and commitment to tourism in Bedford County; selected by the CVB.
ATHENA AWARD: for professional accomplishment, community service, and especially for mentoring women to achieve their full leadership potential: to be announced at the banquet, November 17th
