L-R: Tabatha Fisher (Libro), Lori Lear (Libro), Jordan Nairn (Libro), Jodi Snell (Huron Chamber of Commerce)
The Huron Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce the winners of the 2024 Spirit of Success Awards! Our heartfelt congratulations go out to all of this year’s award winners and nominees, whose dedication and achievements have truly enriched our community. We are especially proud to celebrate Libro Credit Union as the 2024 Business of the Year, honoring their commitment to exceptional service and community support.
This year’s Gala was an unforgettable evening, made possible by the generous support of our sponsors. We extend our deepest gratitude to our title sponsors, Zehrs Goderich and Libro Credit Union, for their commitment to our community and for bringing this event to life. Special thanks go to OLG as the entertainment sponsor and Jodi Snell, Realtor, as the decorations sponsor, whose contributions added to the gala’s memorable atmosphere.
Our sincere appreciation also goes to our in-kind sponsors, Lilry Photography, for capturing the evening’s highlights, J&T Creative Works for coordinating event logistics, and Part II Bistro for preparing the delicious meal and supporting the event as an in-kind sponsor. We’d also like to thank our volunteer decorator, Chelsey Merkt, for adding her creative touch to the event, and Nadine Vandenheuvel, chair of the Spirit of Success Committee, for her leadership and dedication in bringing this celebration to life.
Colin Carmichael, Executive Director of the Chamber, shared his thoughts on the evening: “The quality of this year’s nominations was truly outstanding. The Spirit of Success Awards allow us to celebrate the businesses, organizations, and individuals who make Huron County a vibrant, inspiring place to live and work. Recognizing their hard work and dedication is not only a highlight for the Chamber, but a reminder of the strength and resilience of our community.”
Thank you to everyone who attended, and congratulations once again to the nominees and winners who contribute so much to Huron County. We look forward to witnessing your continued success in the year ahead!
Country 104.9 Community Impact Award
Froggy Fest
Froggy Fest, organized by WorldRooted: the Art Project for People and led by local artist Bethany Davidson, is a unique event that combines art and environmental education for the Huron County community. Launched in 2022 and held again in 2024, the festival brings hundreds of attendees to Courthouse Park in Goderich to explore ecological sustainability through hands-on activities, interactive exhibits, and creative expression. Children and families are immersed in a world of art, conservation, and community engagement, from native-plant giveaways to reptile encounters and eco-themed crafts. The event reflects Bethany’s commitment to fostering ecological awareness and offers a welcoming space for learning and creativity without financial barriers, as all activities are free.
Froggy Fest won the Community Impact Award for its profound contribution to Huron County’s environmental consciousness and its success in fostering an inclusive, family-friendly environment. The 2024 festival attracted over 500 attendees and raised $19,000, supporting local organizations while promoting environmental responsibility. Sponsors and volunteers joined forces to provide an authentic grassroots celebration of nature, art, and community values, including sustainable partnerships and Indigenous-led workshops. Through Froggy Fest, WorldRooted showcases the power of community-driven action, creating an annual celebration that inspires all ages to appreciate and care for the natural world around them.
Compass Minerals Environmental and Sustainability Award
Eat Local Huron
Eat Local Huron has become a key player in the Huron County local food movement by connecting the community directly to local farmers and producers. This nonprofit organization emphasizes sustainable farming and environmentally conscious practices by offering locally grown food that reduces transportation emissions, strengthens the local economy, and promotes healthy, organic options. Each week, Eat Local Huron sources fresh produce, dairy, and meat from local farms and delivers orders directly to consumers, ensuring minimal food waste by only packing what is needed. The organization also reuses materials, using cardboard and other eco-friendly packaging to reduce environmental impact.
Awarded the Compass Minerals Environmental and Sustainability Award, Eat Local Huron was recognized for its unwavering dedication to sustainable food systems and community education. From organizing “farm crawls,” where residents can visit local farms, to educational workshops on reducing food waste and sustainable cooking, Eat Local Huron exemplifies environmental stewardship. Its new storefront in Goderich is a hub for workshops and seminars, strengthening connections between producers and the community. This recognition celebrates Eat Local Huron’s innovative efforts to build a sustainable food ecosystem that benefits residents and the environment alike.
John C. Grace Family Young Entrepreneur Award
Hayley Bettles, Small Town Paralegal
Hayley Bettles, the founder of Small Town Paralegal, embodies the spirit of local entrepreneurship by providing affordable legal assistance in Huron County. Bettles identified a critical need for accessible paralegal services in her community, particularly for individuals and small businesses navigating complex legal issues without incurring high legal costs. Specializing in tenant-landlord disputes, small claims, and other essential services, Hayley has established herself as a trusted advocate and legal guide in the community.
Honored with the John C. Grace Family Young Entrepreneur Award, Bettles has been celebrated for her dedication to community-focused legal services and her innovative approach to addressing local legal needs. Her practice goes beyond traditional legal services by prioritizing community education and accessibility. Hayley’s work exemplifies entrepreneurial excellence, setting a new standard for how legal professionals can actively contribute to community welfare and justice. Through her small-town practice, she brings vital services to an underserved region, proving that young entrepreneurs can make a big impact close to home.
Downtown Goderich BIA Award
CMHA Huron Perth Addiction and Mental Health Services
The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Huron Perth provides essential support services to individuals struggling with addiction and mental health challenges in Huron and Perth Counties. Located in the heart of downtown Goderich, CMHA offers a wide range of programs, including addiction counseling, housing assistance, and community withdrawal management, with a dedicated team of over 100 professionals. The organization has recently expanded its services to include vital outreach programs, helping address the increasing rates of mental health and housing challenges in the community.
Awarded the Downtown Goderich BIA Award, CMHA Huron Perth has been recognized for its substantial role in enhancing quality of life and supporting community health. By offering programs like Heart to Home, which provides year-round housing support for those experiencing homelessness, CMHA plays an instrumental role in stabilizing vulnerable populations and facilitating pathways to recovery and independence. This award celebrates CMHA’s compassionate approach to mental health, addiction, and housing, underscoring its essential contributions to the social and economic fabric of Goderich.
Huron County Economic Development New Business Award
Blake’s Consignment
Blake’s Consignment, founded by Jessica Greidanus, has quickly become a beloved shopping destination in Clinton by offering high-quality, gently used clothing and essentials at affordable prices. With a welcoming atmosphere and a strong community focus, the shop partners with local vendors to feature unique, sustainable goods, catering to families, particularly those with young children. Blake’s Consignment has transformed the secondhand shopping experience, providing a platform for locals to sell their preloved items and supporting a circular economy within the community.
Blake’s Consignment earned the New Business Award for its impact on the local economy and dedication to fostering community connections. Jessica’s vision of an eco-friendly, community-centered business fills a need for budget-conscious families, while promoting sustainability by reducing waste through consignment. As an employer, Jessica creates a flexible and family-friendly workplace, making Blake’s a standout in both business innovation and community engagement. The award highlights the shop’s role in revitalizing the local economy and offering an inclusive, affordable shopping experience.
MicroAge Basics Service Award
Humphrey-Allen CPA
Humphrey-Allen CPA, a trusted accounting firm in Goderich, serves local businesses and individuals with a comprehensive suite of financial services, including tax preparation, payroll, and advisory services. Known for its approachable and personalized service, the firm takes pride in helping clients navigate complex financial landscapes, ensuring they feel supported and informed every step of the way. With a focus on integrity and expertise, Humphrey-Allen CPA has built lasting relationships, becoming an essential resource for financial literacy and growth within the community.
The firm’s commitment to service excellence earned it the MicroAge Basics Service Award. Recognized for going above and beyond in client care, Humphrey-Allen CPA is celebrated for its role in helping small businesses thrive and its active involvement in financial education. This award acknowledges the firm’s dedication to elevating financial health in Huron County, underscoring its impact as a trusted advisor and advocate for local economic success.
K2 Wind Ontario Innovation Award
Square Brew
Square Brew is a local brewery in Goderich known for its creativity and innovation in brewing exceptional craft beers. Using locally sourced ingredients and experimenting with unique flavor profiles, Square Brew creates brews that resonate with the community and visitors alike. From its flagship beers to limited seasonal releases, the brewery has set itself apart by fostering a culture of creativity, quality, and local pride, inviting patrons to experience craft beer in a way that celebrates Huron County.
Square Brew won the Innovation Award for its entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence in brewing. The brewery’s dedication to innovation, from sustainable sourcing to creative recipes, not only enhances the local economy but also brings a fresh, dynamic presence to the Goderich business scene. This award highlights Square Brew’s role as a forward-thinking local business that blends craft, community, and creativity to deliver exceptional products and experiences.
Goderich Tourism Hospitality Business Award
Park House Restaurant
The Park House Restaurant, a historic establishment in Goderich, is celebrated for its warm hospitality and dedication to the community. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent customer service, the Park House offers a dining experience that feels like home, whether for locals or visitors exploring the scenic lakefront. By supporting local groups, hosting community events, and creating memorable dining experiences, the restaurant has earned a loyal following and has become a cornerstone of Goderich’s hospitality scene.
Awarded the Hospitality Business Award, the Park House is recognized for its exemplary service standards and community-minded approach. The restaurant’s willingness to host non-profit events and its attentive service exemplify a commitment to creating a positive impact. This award underscores the Park House’s role in enriching Goderich’s hospitality landscape, demonstrating that exceptional service and community spirit can elevate dining into a cherished experience.
Zehrs Markets Retail Business Award
SurfSup Eco Shop
SurfSup Eco Shop has become a leader in eco-conscious retail, offering sustainable products that help customers reduce waste and embrace an environmentally friendly lifestyle. Located in Goderich, SurfSup offers everything from reusable household items to eco-friendly personal care products, all carefully curated to promote sustainability. The shop’s commitment to educating customers about sustainable choices and providing alternatives to single-use plastics has fostered a loyal community of environmentally conscious shoppers.
The Eco Shop was awarded the Retail Business Award for its dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship. By providing practical, eco-friendly products, SurfSup empowers customers to make greener choices, and its commitment to reducing waste aligns with broader community values. This award highlights SurfSup Eco Shop’s role in leading the shift toward a sustainable lifestyle in Huron County, transforming the retail experience into a force for positive change.
Huron County Economic Development Diversity Award
Jokey North America
Jokey North America, a prominent plastic packaging company, has distinguished itself through its strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. With a workforce that represents multiple nationalities, Jokey fosters a culture of belonging and support, going beyond standard hiring practices to create a truly inclusive environment. The company values diverse perspectives, welcoming employees from various backgrounds and abilities, and promotes equity in leadership and skilled trade roles, encouraging women and minority groups to pursue advancement within the company.
Awarded the Diversity Award, Jokey North America is celebrated for its forward-thinking approach to workforce inclusion and commitment to creating a welcoming workplace. Through mentorship, inclusive hiring, and community engagement, Jokey has set a standard for what it means to be a responsible, equitable employer. This recognition highlights Jokey’s leadership in fostering a culturally diverse and empowered workplace, making a meaningful impact on both employees and the broader community.
Bazinet Family Volunteer Award
Pamela Somers
Pamela Somers is a dedicated community volunteer known for her unwavering commitment to supporting others. Serving in various capacities across organizations like the Goderich Horticultural Society and the AMGH Foundation, Pamela’s contributions have enriched the lives of countless residents. Her efforts in local gardens, fundraising events, and community gatherings reflect her dedication to creating a vibrant, welcoming community for all, especially newcomers to Goderich.
The Volunteer Award recognizes Pamela’s selfless service and her impact on Huron County’s community spirit. Pamela’s role as a volunteer extends beyond formal commitments; her genuine passion for helping others and her involvement in social and educational initiatives demonstrate the profound difference one person can make. This award honors her as a model volunteer, celebrating her contributions to a stronger, more connected community.
Main Street Credit Union Excellence in Agribusiness Award
EthoGuard Inc.
EthoGuard Inc., an agribusiness innovator in Huron County, is dedicated to sustainable farming practices and advanced agricultural technology. The company specializes in soil health and crop management solutions that empower farmers to optimize yield while preserving environmental resources. By incorporating cutting-edge technology into their operations, EthoGuard has become a trusted partner in promoting eco-friendly farming practices, supporting local agriculture, and protecting the land for future generations.
Awarded the Excellence in Agribusiness Award, EthoGuard is recognized for its contributions to agricultural innovation and sustainability. Through partnerships with local farms and a commitment to environmental stewardship, the company exemplifies leadership in modern agribusiness. This award acknowledges EthoGuard’s dedication to advancing agriculture in Huron County, fostering a more resilient and sustainable future for the industry.
Berhan Immigration & Settlement Services Newcomer Award
Vlorat Vitija
Vlorat Vitija and his family immigrated to Canada on January 27, 2007, and after years of exploring their new home, they were drawn to the beauty of Huron County. In January 2019, the Vitijas relocated to Goderich, where the family’s love for the Goderich Beach and local community inspired Vlorat to open two successful businesses. Vlorat and his wife Arta launched Chuck’s Roadhouse on Victoria Street South, followed by V’Sandwiches on Courthouse Square. With dedication and a passion for great food, the Vitijas have worked tirelessly to bring quality dining experiences to the people of Goderich.
Awarded the Newcomer Award, Vlorat’s journey exemplifies the spirit of entrepreneurship and the contributions newcomers bring to the community. His success in establishing two thriving restaurants not only highlights his commitment to providing excellent service but also reflects the welcoming and vibrant nature of Goderich. Vlorat’s story is a testament to the strength of immigrant businesses in Huron County, celebrating both his resilience and the positive impact of his ventures on the local economy.
Huron County Economic Development Employer of Choice Award
Libro Credit Union
Libro Credit Union is a standout employer in Huron County, known for its commitment to employee well-being, professional growth, and community involvement. With a holistic approach to employee support, Libro offers competitive benefits, wellness programs, and opportunities for continuous learning, creating a workplace where employees feel valued and empowered. As a Living Wage Employer and a Certified B Corporation, Libro demonstrates a profound commitment to both social responsibility and financial wellness.
Awarded the Employer of Choice Award, Libro Credit Union is celebrated for fostering a workplace culture that prioritizes employee satisfaction and community engagement. From paid personal days to mentorship programs, Libro goes above and beyond to create a supportive environment where employees can thrive. This award highlights Libro’s leadership in setting a new standard for employer excellence, making a positive impact on both its employees and the communities it serves.
Huron Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year
Libro Credit Union
Libro Credit Union’s dedication to financial literacy, community support, and ethical business practices has earned it the prestigious Business of the Year award. With deep roots in Southwestern Ontario, Libro serves as more than just a financial institution; it is a trusted partner that empowers individuals and businesses to achieve their financial goals. Through initiatives like financial coaching and community investment, Libro supports local economic growth and promotes sustainable development.
Receiving the Business of the Year Award underscores Libro’s outstanding contributions to Huron County. As a cornerstone of the community, Libro’s commitment to ethical practices, customer satisfaction, and social impact has elevated its role as a financial leader. This award recognizes Libro’s exceptional influence, not only in supporting economic prosperity but in fostering a thriving, interconnected community.