The Altona & District Chamber of Commerce has announced the recipients of its 2024 business awards.
Economic development officer Stephanie Harris says they had a good number of nominations in every category this year.
“Nominees receive a questionnaire to complete, and those forms go to the judging committee, which consists of Altona Mayor Harv Schroeder, Rhineland Reeve Don Wiebe, Chamber president Cal Smith, and former president of SEED board Scott Penner. They score the questions, so it’s done in a very fair manner.”
Leading the pack is Sun Valley Co-op Ltd., which has been selected for the Business Excellence Award for businesses with 11 or more employees.
Established in 1931, Sun Valley Co-op boasts a rich history and a network of 10 locations spanning across Altona, Morris, St Jean, Dominion City, and Emerson.
With over 150 staff members, Sun Valley Co-op has demonstrated unwavering support for the community through donations, volunteerism efforts, capital investments, and the provision of quality products and services.
“They have over 8,000 members and provide a wide scope of services across the region,” Harris says.
Agassiz Massage Therapy has been awarded the Business Excellence Award in the category of businesses with 10 or fewer employees.
This small health care clinic, founded in April 2022, offers massage therapy, physiotherapy, and acupuncture services.
From humble beginnings with one massage therapist, Agassiz Massage Therapy now supports a team of three staff members specializing in various medical disciplines.
The clinic has actively supported local initiatives such as the Kiddie Sunshine Centre and programs at Ecole Parkside School and W.C. Miller Collegiate, as well as contributing to hospital activity books for children.
“They’re strong community supporters and are actually celebrating two years of business on the day of the awards,” notes Harris
The title of Entrepreneur of the Year goes to Sarah Braun, owner of Springtide Wellness.
Braun’s business provides therapeutic and wellness services, including reflexology, massage therapy, chiropractic care, and esthetic services. Recognized for her exceptional employee quality growth, innovative marketing strategies, and commitment to community impact, Braun has demonstrated a dedication to fostering employee satisfaction and promoting business growth.
“I’ve heard exciting things about this business since it opened,” Harris says. “The chamber will be working with her grand opening in May.”
Rounding out the awards is The Community Exchange, which has been selected as the Non-Profit of the Year.
With a vision centered on building community connections through food, learning, and resource sharing, The Community Exchange collaborates with 18 local businesses and organizations to offer a range of programs and services. From monthly community dinners to a Food Rescue Program, the organization is deeply committed to enhancing community cohesion and well-being.
“This is a good opportunity for their programs to be spotlighted so the community knows what they have to offer,” Harris says.
The awards will be presented at the chamber’s awards gala next week.
