Best of Awards 2025 (Feb 2- Feb 9)

• Please remember One Vote Per Person

• Choose up to 1 per Category

Volunteer of the year- Choose 1

This award will be presented annually to an individual (or couple) whose volunteerism and outstanding service and dedication have made a significant contribution to the community.  Qualities looked for are as follows:

• A person who continually volunteers his or her time, dedication, and talents to the community to make it a great place to live, work, play and learn.

• A person who has made a positive difference in the community thru their volunteer efforts.

• Someone who has demonstrated exceptional service to the community and whose example serves as an inspiration for others.

• A person who shows great commitment and cooperation.

In choosing the recipient, regard will be given to the nominee’s achievements in 2024 as well as their past achievements and ongoing contributions to the community.  The individual recognized does not have to be a member of the Birch Run Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce or the business community.  A nominee need only be nominated once to be considered; the number of nominations received per nominee will bear no weight in their selection.

Business of the year- Choose 1

This award will be presented to a business who has shown exemplary leadership in the business community and demonstrated a positive social or economic impact on the lives of residents and fellow businesses within the community.  Qualities looked for are as follows:

• A business who contributes to and promotes the economic growth, stability, and improvement of the community.

• A business who displays a high level of entrepreneurial spirit, perseverance, creativity and drive to succeed.

• A business who follows great customer service strategies and practices.

• A business who has demonstrated a high degree of community involvement and plays a leadership role in civic activities within the community.

• A business who exemplifies high ethical standards.

In choosing the recipient, consideration will be given to the nominee’s achievements in 2025 as well as their past achievements and ongoing contributions to the community.  Nominees must have been in business for at least one year to be eligible for consideration.

Citizen of the Year- Choose 1

This award will be presented annually to an individual whose outstanding service and dedication have made a significant contribution to the community.  Qualities looked for are as follows:

• A person who has made a positive difference to the lives of fellow citizens.

• A person who has shown a willingness to work with other residents and/or businesses, who is enthusiastic about the community and its citizens, and who works continually towards the betterment of the community.

• Someone who is dedicated to the community, lends leadership and vision, and who assists in achieving organizational goals of the community.  They may serve on service, school, church, or community committees.

• A person with the qualities of honesty and integrity.

In choosing the recipient, regards will be given to the nominee’s achievements in 2025 as well as their past achievements and ongoing contributions to the community.  The individual recognized does not have to be a member of the Birch Run Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce or the business community.  A nominee need only be nominated once to be considered; the number of nominations received per nominee will bear no weight in their selection.

Organization of the Year- Choose 1

To be considered for this honor, organizations must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Rooted in Our Communities: Must be located in and actively support the Birch Run or Bridgeport communities

• Nonprofit Status: Registered 501(c)(3) or recognized nonprofit organization

• Community Impact: Demonstrates measurable positive impact through programs, services, or initiatives that uplift our community

• Aligned with Local Values: Supports efforts that reflect the heart and soul of our community’s values and priorities

• Innovation: Has introduced creative and forward-thinking approaches to address the needs of those they serve

Best of the Best Category

The Best of the Best 2025 category represents the highest level of recognition in the Best of Awards. These finalists have already been selected as Top 3 in their respective categories and are now advancing to the final round of voting.

This round is designed to honor businesses, organizations, and individuals who consistently went above and beyond year—setting the standard for excellence, service, and community impact throughout the year.

Final winners are determined by public vote during the Best of the Best voting period and will be announced at the Best of Awards Celebration.

Only one vote per person is allowed per category. We encourage the community to participate and help recognize those who truly represent the best our area has to offer.