The Altona and District Chamber of Commerce has announced the winners of its 2026 awards.
They received numerous worthy nominees this year, shared Stephanie Peters, economic development officer.
“We’ve got so many deserving businesses and not-for-profit organizations that it’s really great to see all those nominations come in,” she said. “I just wish everybody could receive an award.”
The annual awards are a chance for the community to come together to celebrate the work local businesses, entrepreneurs, and non-profits are doing to make Altona a better place to live and work, Peters noted.
This year’s winners have “been in the community for many years and have been contributing in so many ways,” she said, “whether it’s financially or volunteering time on different efforts.”
Red River Mutual is this year’s Business Excellence Award winner for companies with 11 or more employees.
The company is celebrating 150 years of service, with deep roots in Altona. From its beginnings as a mutual aid collective in 1875 to becoming one of Western Canada’s leading insurance providers, Red River Mutual today serves over 86,000 policyholders and employs 190 people.
“With a strong local presence and a deep commitment to community, the company has contributed over $600,000 to local initiatives in the past three years and continues to demonstrate leadership through innovation, employee engagement, and community investment,” the selection committee said.
The Business Excellence Award for companies with 10 or fewer employees is going to Altona Dental Centre, which has served its patients in the community for over 50 years.
“Through significant growth and modernization, the clinic has doubled its patient base since 2018 while bringing advanced dental care services to Altona that were previously only available outside the community,” the committee noted. “With a strong focus on hiring and developing local talent, supporting education, and delivering patient-centered care, Altona Dental Centre continues to enhance both the health and quality of life for residents.”
This 2026 Entrepreneur of the Year is Jenna-Lee Luptak, owner of Beautiful Bend Therapy.
“With more than 15 years of experience as a pediatric occupational therapist, Jenna-Lee has built a practice grounded in compassion, connection, and play-based therapy,” the selection committee noted. “Through strong community partnerships and a growing demand for services, Beautiful Bend Therapy is helping address a critical gap in pediatric care while empowering families and strengthening the community.”
Finally, the Non-Profit of the Year Award will be awarded to the Altona & Area Family Resource Centre (AAFRC), an organization that has supported local families for over 25 years.
“Founded as a grassroots, community-driven initiative, AAFRC continues to provide accessible, inclusive programming focused on early childhood development. Through its welcoming environment, strong partnerships, and commitment to removing barriers for families, AAFRC plays a vital role in building a healthier, more connected, and resilient community.”
These recipients will be honoured at the chamber’s awards gala on April 23 at the Rhineland Pioneer Centre.
The evening will also feature multicultural entertainment provided by Folklorama, including Japanese Taiko drumming, Irish dance, Filipino performances, and a Ukrainian dance ensemble.
To book a ticket, head to www.altonachamber.com or call 1-204-324-9549 by April 9.
