Do you know someone who deserves to be recognized for making an impact in the community?
They could be the next winner of a Spirit of Ladysmith Community Award.
The Spirit of Ladysmith Community Awards, sponsored by the Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce, recognize achievement and leadership in Ladysmith. Individuals and organizations are nominated for making an impact in and around Ladysmith.
The call has gone out for nominations, and any member of the Ladysmith and area community is eligible for nominations.
The awards recognize volunteers, students, employees, employers, organizations and companies.
“The importance of the awards is to give recognition to community businesses and individuals who excel in all these categories,” said Chamber of Commerce office manager Melody Smythies. “It’s an honour to be recognized, and as a nominator, you get a chance to express your thanks and gratitude and give kudos where it is deserved. A lot of people don’t get the recognition they deserve, and this is a chance to do that.”
There are eight awards in all.
• Business of the Year
There are two awards in the Business of the Year category — one for a small business with one to 10 employees and one for a large business with 11 or more employees.
This award recognizes a business that has made outstanding contributions to the community. Good corporate citizenship through active participation in community events is essential. The business has the ability to create employment and generate income, promotes economic welfare and will reward its employees and the community at large with a sound reputation of providing quality service.
• Entrepreneur of the Year
This award recognizes an entrepreneur who demonstrates creative innovation that has contributed to the success of either a new or existing business.
This person is a dynamic owner/operator of a local business, demonstrates leadership in his or her respective industry, has a track record for identifying and expanding market opportunities, and devotes personal time and energy to the community.
• Not-for-Profit Organization
This award recognizes a not-for-profit organization that provides outstanding programs and services that have a direct benefit on the community.
This organization demonstrates leadership and volunteer management and has a strong community involvement.
• Customer Service
This award is given to an employee who consistently offers exceptional customer service, and there will be two awards — one for small business (one to 10 employees) and one for large businesses (11 and more employees).
Performance, attention to quality workmanship and service delivered with positive enthusiasm and a smile are key attributes. This person is considered a role model within his or her respective industry and will have performed his or her job to such a level that his or her efforts have not only assisted revenues but have also enriched the lives of customers and co-workers. As well, this person always goes the extra mile to serve the customer and is a strong team player.
• Volunteer of the Year
This award is presented to an individual who has used his or her time, efforts and personal resources to help others. The award will be given to someone who has worked tirelessly to make sure his or contributions were of service, strived for good work and tried to make the lives of others better in our community. Individuals who receive wages or an honorarium for the services for which they have been recognized are not eligible for this award.
• Youth of the Year
This award recognizes an individual who is younger than 20 who has proven success in studies or is involved in local community services, who is a role model to peers, who possesses strong leadership skills and who shows personal growth through activities such as scholastic achievement, volunteering, music, sports and/or the arts.
The deadline for nominations is Jan. 20. Nominations forms are available at the Chamber of Commerce office at 411B First Ave.
For information about nominations, call 250-245-2112.
Everyone who is nominated for an award will be recognized during the Spirit of Ladysmith Community Awards ceremony Feb. 11 at 7 p.m. at Aggie Hall. There will be appetizers throughout the evening, and the awards will be presented from 7-9 p.m., There will also be a dance from 9 p.m. on.
Tickets are $15 each and are available now at the Chamber of Commerce office.
“We’re hoping it’s more affordable for the whole community to come,” said Smythies.