The Community Impact Award

Canine Designs is an Exeter, PA-based pet grooming and styling business for dogs of all breeds and sizes.  Astound selected the company for a Community Impact Award because of its longstanding commitment to help abused animals, as well as its continued support of a non-profit shelter in the community.

The company regularly donates services directly to help stray animals, as well as to Blue Chip Farm Animal Refuge, a no-kill facility that provides animal adoption opportunities, fostering services, and volunteer programs.   In addition, local veterinarians frequently refer Canine Designs’ services to pets with allergies as improved grooming can alleviate some of the symptoms – and, in turn, can help pet owners with their own allergies.

“At our core, Canine Designs is about helping animals and their owners,” said company owner Sarah Lamoreaux.  “We have always made it a priority to help animals in need and are grateful to be a part of the community by helping both people and their animals.”

Washington, DC-based Cookie Wear is a boutique clothing store that offers a unique selection of trendy and stylish apparel.  The store celebrates the 60s, 70s 80s and 90s in fun and fashion for both men and women. An active member of the DC community for more than 25 years, it began in the Petworth neighborhood, opened a second location in Central DC and has always served its surrounding communities by actively supporting fashion and art.

Cookie Wear is broadly known for its spring and summer community outreach programs in which it provides free canvas time for children and their parents.  The store also donates the supplies — and the participants take the finished pieces home to hang on their favorite walls.  Cookie Wear also supports T-shirt design and jewelry making programs.

Owner Michelle Smith frequently sponsors workshops for young adults, as well as senior citizens. Smith believes in affordable, sustainable fashion for the entire family; and some of her designs are created by hand.  For the past two decades, Cookie Wear has supported other small or aspiring businesses by allowing them to sell items within the Cookie Wear establishment and/or also vend in front of the store, free of charge.

“I love the impact we can have in the community by allowing other small businesses to use our store and space as a platform to gain stability,” said Smith. “I am also a strong believer in the value of sharing my journey in business with children of all ages, so I constantly open my doors for schools to tour and meet me one on one for workshops and mentoring programs.”

With stores in both Reading and Woburn, MA, Empower Cafes’ owner Nicholas Face has put community involvement at the forefront of his business priorities, while honoring his own family roots.

The cafes recently instituted a unique “Business Spotlight” feature in which Empower recognizes other organizations in its home communities.   Each week throughout the year, the cafes honor great organizations and businesses in the communities with special shoutouts, drink/food drops, and more.

Face has also been the owner of Active Education Inc for over 15 years. With this organization, he established an educational activity company called Sports Zone 101. That entity partnered with more than 50 communities across New England since 2009 helping to shape the lives of hundreds of kids through positive leadership, great sportsmanship, and team play.

In addition, Face created a special tribute to his mother, Bonny, who passed away in 2020: The Bonny E. Face Memorial Scholarship Foundation honors graduating high school students with a scholarship to help with their future educational endeavors.  The honoree is selected once per year, on Bonnie’s birthday, May 23^rd.  Bonny was a community leader who gave back to many organizations in town. Her dream was to have her own bakery or café with healthy food and drink choices for people to enjoy.  Today, the Empower Cafes served many homemade goods from his mother’s recipes.

“It has been my life mission since the passing of my mother in 2020 to continue to honor her legacy and help create a positive, loving, and beautiful tribute to her,” Face said. “Having Empower Cafes allows me to continue my mom’s amazing legacy and helps to keep her spirit alive.”

Face’s external community involvement is extensive, as an active member of the Woburn and Reading Chamber of Commerce, a longtime board member of the Reading High School Athletic Hall of Fame, and a baseball coach for many years at Reading High School.

Robert Bacaycay founded Filipinos of New York in 2013 and has since grown his organization’s network to include more than 60,000 members in and around New York City.  Since that time, his business has made a significant positive impact for Filipinos in the community by creating job opportunities and other programs to help newcomers thrive. Bacaycay has set a direct response Help Line for Filipinos in need, addressing emergencies such as providing temporary shelter, supporting victims of domestic violence and human trafficking, assisting with lost and found cases, and by helping address medical costs for those in need.

Additionally, Filipinos of New York bridges the gap between small businesses and the community through its network of 60,000 members.  It also fosters no brokers-fee apartment rentals, fostering growth and collaboration, as well as initiatives like free training programs that empower individuals to contribute to the overall well-being and development of our community.

“I am both grateful for and proud of the meaningful difference my business has made in the lives of individuals and families within the community,” said Bacaycay.  “Being a trusted resource and a beacon of hope in times of need is what matters.”

In his day-to-day work, Bacaycay serves as a trainer, equipping individuals with skills to succeed; a help line, providing guidance and support in times of need; a recruiter, connecting people with job opportunities; and a personal coach, mentoring individuals to achieve both their personal and professional goals.

Luna Restaurant has been a proud part of the Concord community for more than 25 years. In that time, Luna has become more than just a place to eat— it’s become a place where people gather to celebrate life’s special moments, from birthdays and anniversaries to everyday dinners with loved ones.  This is owner Habib Jacifi’s third restaurant since his arrival in the United States from Morocco at age 16.

According to Jacifi, Luna’s impact goes far beyond the dining experience. The restaurant proudly sponsors numerous local schools, churches, and kids’ programs, supporting the next generation and giving back to area families at every opportunity. Luna is an active member of the Concord Chamber of Commerce, the Todos Santos Business Association, and the Kiwanis Club, working alongside other local leaders to help Concord thrive.  Perhaps most noteworthy is its innovative culinary program for the Mt. Diablo School District:

Luna regularly welcomes student volunteers to step into the restaurant and experience how a real kitchen and front-of-house operate. It’s hands-on exposure that helps inspire and prepare them for future careers in hospitality.

“We love being a part of their learning journey and showing them the real-world side of the culinary world,” Jacifi said. “It’s our way of investing in the next generation of chefs, entrepreneurs, and leaders in our community.  At Luna, we believe in food, family, and community—and we’re honored to be a part of so many lives here in Concord,”

Jacifi says he is most proud of is the genuine connection Luna has built with its surrounding community over the past 25 years. He runs Luna not just as a restaurant and business, but as a place where people feel at home. Jacifi and his staff have watched families grow, celebrated milestones with their guests, and created a space where everyone feels welcome.

“We believe in the power of mentorship and leading by example,” Jacifi continued. “Whether it’s through our partnerships with schools, our involvement in local organizations, or simply offering a friendly space for families to gather, we are truly committed to making a lasting, positive impact on the community we’ve been proud to serve for 25 years.”

Bethlehem, PA-based Mighty Pawz has traveled throughout the US to address and assist with animal rescues after natural disasters, while also sending vital supplies directly to those affected areas.  According to owner Robert Rozak, Mighty Pawz offers non-profit emergency services via both medical and physical animal rescues, such as on-site treatments at scenes of disasters or fires.

It also supports local county animal rescue teams with logistics and the equipment needed to effectuate an animal rescue. This can involve rescues in high terrain that not even the fire department can reach, water rescues, or just initial emergency triage care for animals.  The business even has its own “fire truck” to help rescue cats from trees.

Since September 2020 its local outreach has impacted members of the Bethlehem-areas community via food donations, and back-to-school giveaways for the Boys and Girls Club Bethlehem.  From an animal health standpoint, Rozak believes Mighty Paws is the first business of its kind in Pennsylvania and to his knowledge, the entire United States.  The organization is a critical response partner with the ASPCA national team and may deploy up to 14 days at any given time to places as far away as California.

Mighty Pawz’ special operations division is comprised of volunteers who train in animal behavior and medical emergencies, as well as fire department training for rescue.  The company currently works with the American Red Cross, County of Lehigh and Northampton County animal rescue teams.

“We are not so much proud as we are honored to be entrusted by so many customers and animals,” Rozak said.  “This high level of trust has enabled Mighty Pawz to continue and expand our mission from when we first opened, to where we’re now striving to provide the highest possible quality care to animals and their owners within our local community and beyond.”

Under the leadership of Pastor Colby L. Cotton, New Zion has made incredible strides in community outreach and service, leading to its selection as a Community Impact Award winner. New Zion stands out in five ways:

1. Food & Essentials Distribution – The church runs a free food pantry every 2nd and 4th Friday, providing nutritious groceries to families in need. This service has been vital in alleviating hunger for many local residents, and the church also distributes clothing and other essentials through donation drives. This outreach has been essential in supporting families during tough times.

2. Youth Empowerment – New Zion’s STARS Youth Ministry focuses on shaping the next generation by providing mentorship, leadership development, and positive recreational activities. The church also hosts youth events, such as bowling nights and social gatherings, offering safe alternatives for young people to engage with one another and the church.

3. Emergency Aid & Charitable Programs – The church’s Helps Ministry provides immediate financial assistance to individuals and families in crisis. Whether helping with rent, utilities, or medical bills, New Zion plays a crucial role in stabilizing households facing financial hardship. This program has been especially impactful during the current environment of economic uncertainty.

4. Cultural & Community Events – New Zion hosts events like the Soul Food Taste Tea, celebrating African American culture and bringing together people from all walks of life. These community gatherings have not only strengthened community bonds but have also raised funds for the church’s varied outreach programs.

5. Partnerships with Local Organizations – The church actively collaborates with other faith-based groups, local businesses, and the San Marcos Chamber of Commerce to extend their reach. They work hand-in-hand with community partners to clean up local neighborhoods, provide voter education, and host charity events.

“Our work goes well beyond just providing services,” Cotton said.  “It’s about building long-term, supportive relationships within the community.”

Pizza Primo’s owner Rhula Khatib is grateful to have been an integral part of the Rocklin area since 1995. According to Khatib, Primo has been deeply committed to supporting and enriching the Rocklin community since day one.

“As a local-owned family business, we prioritize fostering relationships with our neighbors, customers, and fellow local businesses,” Khatib said. “We take great pride from knowing that our role in the community goes beyond just providing great food – it’s about fostering meaningful connections and contributing to a local spirit of generosity and support.”

Beyond serving delicious hand-tossed pizzas, Primo is a dedicated supporter of local initiatives, particularly those benefiting first responders. For years, Khatib and her team have supported Rocklin’s Public Safety Foundation Annual Police & Fire Golf Tournament, including this year’s 8th annual event held in May. Primo has also partnered with Rocklin-area schools, sports teams and nonprofit organizations by sponsoring events and donating meals — all backed by a positive, supportive workplace culture that promotes both skill development and community involvement.

Khatib personally has worked closely with several non-profits, offering both her time and resources to causes that matter to the Rocklin community. Whether it’s through organizing fundraising events, providing donations or volunteering at local charity drives, Khatib has made it a priority to support efforts that uplift those in need. Through these efforts, she shared that her underlying aim is to contribute to the overall health, growth, and unity of the Rocklin community.

For more than 21 years, Whispering Winds Farm, a horse ranch near the small town of Mulino, Oregon, has been dedicated to helping special needs children have purpose and a positive outlook on life. According to owner Adonna Lynn Randle, the farm’s mantra of “in the barn, off the streets” underscores its mission of helping young people gain confidence through riding experience.

She and her team focus on educating young people, which oftentimes involves donating lessons when their parents or guardians cannot afford it.

“Helping kids have purpose and a new outlook on life is really what this is all about,” said Riddle.

Wilson’s Secret Sauce has been in business since its founding in San Marcos in 2010, followed by the opening of its restaurant in Upper Darby in 2018. While restaurants in the same community tend to compete with one another, owner Steve Wilson took on a different approach, one that has had a positive community impact by helping other area restaurants thrive.

“We took a bit of a gamble that offering our tremendous BBQ dishes at other restaurants could help them succeed, while at the same time helping our own business grow,” Wilson said. “Now several restaurants are benefitting by having things like our brisket on their menus.”

This unique approach has helped fuel the company’s growth, as well as Wilson’s other community impacts in the non-profit arena, including regular food and volunteer hours donations over many years. Wilson noted that while these gestures oftentimes don’t return a profit, they do provide much needed support for those in need.

Wilson’s Secret Sauce also supports such entities as WMMR’s Camp Out for Hunger, Kids Against Hunger and the Haverford Alliance for Drug Awareness.

Pulpit Boxing in Pittson, PA is a nonprofit youth boxing program that helps kids grow inside and outside the ring. Part of the local community for more than a decade, the program uses the discipline of boxing to teach confidence, responsibility and resilience. Pulpit, which got its name from its beginnings in a local church basement, now offers a safe, structured space where young people are guided to succeed in school, make positive choices and build a strong sense of self-worth. Pulpit’s classes are open to all skill levels and emphasize more than athletic ability. Coaches mentor students in personal development, encouraging them to avoid drugs and alcohol, resist bullying and stay focused on education. Boxing becomes a powerful tool for shaping character and promoting long-term success. “We are most proud of watching our young people grow–not just becoming members of the community, but rising to serve it,” said Rev. Samuel Washington, Pulpit founder and owner.

The program offers affordable training and ensures that no child is turned away due to inability to pay. Pulpit operates on the belief that all young people deserve the opportunity to grow in confidence, discipline and community. Donations and church support help keep the program accessible year-round.

Pulpit empowers community youth through boxing, mentorship and values that last far beyond the gym. According to Washington, the greatest impacts this business has made are tied to providing an outlet for troubled youth to navigate personal growth, overcome mental health challenges, and develop essential life skills.

For over four decades, Auburn Pet Clinic has been a cornerstone of the community’s well-being. The company takes immense pride in its longstanding commitment to personalized care, and creating a comfortable, dependable and informative environment for veterinary care, along with giving back to the community.

The clinic works closely with all surrounding animal shelters and rescue groups. Beyond regular business hours they often discuss cases and offer guidance because a pet’s well-being is their top priority.

From supporting local initiatives like funding the development of a beloved bike park to rallying behind events such as an elementary school jog-a-thon and middle school Color run, the pet clinic is deeply invested in the vitality of Auburn’s neighborhoods.

“Community isn’t just a word – it’s a way of life. We stand out by delivering high-quality service, going the extra mile, and providing personalized care for every furry friend that walks through our doors,” said owner Wendy Mackinnon. “Whether it’s lending a helping hand at local fundraising events or providing educational resources, we’re dedicated to enriching the lives of those we serve.”

The clinic’s commitment to excellence has been recognized, as it was named the Best Veterinarian in Auburn in 2023. The clinic was nominated for its family atmosphere based on genuine care and unwavering support in the community.

Mission Waco has been serving the Waco, TX community for over 30 years, since 1992. The organization’s main areas of service are enhancement education for local children and youth, and support services for the homeless community. Since the mission’s founding, numerous children have grown to successful adulthood, including college educations, and the number of homeless in Waco has significantly decreased, with previous homeless residents obtaining jobs and housing.

Carlton Willis, the organization’s associate executive director of programs, is proud that the mission is able to serve the surrounding community in many ways such as providing a homeless shelter for adult men and women, along with social services via assistance with ID, medication, and transportation.

According to Willis, the mission provides after-school programs for children and youth, which is inclusive of Creative Arts (art, dance, theatre, and music). It also has a grocery store within the North Waco Community, where there was practically no food in the area previously. The mission also provides job training, and employment programs (Street Sweep), Donation Health Clinic, Legal Services.

Willis serves on the Board for Community in Schools, Leadership Waco Alumni, Education to Workforce Committee, Mentor for Bill Logue Juvenile Detention Center, Trustee and Praise and Worship Leader at Greater New Light MBC.

For more information on the programs we run, visit missionwaco.org and view our Program Highlights flipbook.

Brentwood Social House was established in November 2016 by Suzanne Daniels. She and her family have lived in the Brentwood neighborhood since 2012.

“Brentwood Social House is more than just a coffee shop; we are a vital community hub that serves as a beacon of warmth, inclusion, and support in the heart of Austin,” Daniels says. “Our dedication to fostering connections and spreading love goes beyond providing excellent coffee and delicious baked goods; it permeates every aspect of our establishment and drives our mission forward.”

Whether it’s a parent enjoying a fun moment with their child in Brentwood’s outdoor playscape or a group of friends gathering for book club in a cozy indoor space, Brentwood Social House is where connections are formed and memories are made.

Brentwood Social House is most proud of its role in creating a sense of belonging for all in the community. The team strives to create an environment where individuals from all backgrounds feel comfort, connection, and belonging. As a woman-owned business, Brentwood recognizes the significance of representation and empowerment and has created a space where everyone, be it team members or patrons, feels valued and respected. The social house’s active involvement with the community, through hosting free events, endorsing local initiatives, and providing platforms for artists and entrepreneurs, epitomizes its commitment to social responsibility.

“By proudly showcasing our internal values through visual symbols like the Black Lives mural and Pride Equity flag, we not only enrich our community but also elevate the collective human experience,” said Daniels “We believe in celebrating diversity, thereby fostering an environment where every individual feels not just accepted, but truly celebrated.”

Brentwood actively engages with its community through multifaceted involvement. It extends support to local non-profits such as Brentwood Elementary PTA and Austin Mutual Aid, hosts a free community fridge sponsored by ATX Free Fridge Project, and provides donation requests to numerous other non-profit organizations. The founder’s leadership role within non-profits like Good Work Austin and involvement with Impact Austin’s marketing team exemplify the establishment’s commitment to fostering genuine connections through collaborative efforts. Additionally, its partnership with the Austin Police Department as a Safe Place underscores its unwavering commitment to ensuring safety and security throughout the community.

Nominated for the Astound recognition because it’s a “Wonderful local family friendly coffee shop with delicious pastries. Since having a kid, we’ve been coming here a lot and it’s been a great hub to chat with other parents while the kids learn and explore. They have an awesome pirate ship playset and a nice inside kids’ room. A gem in our neighborhood that I don’t think gets enough love.”

An Indiana treasure, Youth First partners with schools, universities, other agencies, businesses, churches, neighborhoods, and individuals in a variety of collaborative efforts to strengthen youth mental health and well-being to over 50,000 children, parents and schools across 13 Indiana counties.

Services are free to those served and require year-round fundraising for support.

A year of free internet services from Astound allows some dollars to be directed to saving young lives, in addition to providing vital connectivity for the non-profit. This organization works diligently to create a strong, healthy young population that will be ready to learn and be more successful in life and productive employees in years to come. youthfirstinc.org/

For over 25 years Youth First has equipped thousands of young people with the hope and help they need to become thriving adults. The agency partners with 125 Indiana schools to give over 52,500 students and their families free, easy access to over 90 licensed mental health professionals (primarily master’s-level social workers) and hundreds of evidence-based prevention programs. These clinically trained professionals are embedded in schools to strengthen student mental health and well-being through one-to-one mentoring, small group support, educational programming, links to resources, and parent/teacher engagement.

The demand for the organization’s services continues to grow, especially in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. Youth First Mental Health Professionals and prevention programs are uniquely positioned to offer that care. Positive outcomes and testimonials from our programs and services (available at youthfirstinc.org) demonstrate that the Youth First model is working, even during times of extraordinary challenge and change.

“Now more than ever, schools must be places of care and support in order to be places of learning, said Parri Black, President & CEO. “Most importantly, the youth and families we serve are growing in resilience and hope.”

To learn more about the organization’s 25th anniversary video and other testimonials: youthfirstinc.org/stories-of-change/

In 2015, Diana Santiago Cano and her business partner started Cano Coffee, focused on bringing coffee directly from family farms in Colombia to Queens. In 2018, the small business got into its first farmer’s market and now Cano Coffee is operating more than 19 farmers markets throughout New York and New Jersey. In addition, and thanks to the support and loyalty of farmer’s market customers, the company was able to open its first Cano Coffee Shop in Astoria, Queens in April 2023.

According to Cano, her company’s coffee is brought to the local community from the high mountains of Huila, Colombia. The company’s goal is to offer its customers the most exclusive coffee, roasted and package locally.

“Cano Coffee gives the surrounding communities the opportunity to experience quality coffee that is not offered by major coffee companies,” Cano said. “We provide them with a cozy and intimate environment in our coffee shop, where not only they can experience specialty coffee that is weekly roasted; but they can also learn about the entire coffee process from farm to cup.”

The company takes pride in sustainable planting of coffee trees, maintaining current ones and managing each harvest according to the weather each season. Cano Coffee Company is focused on three different factors.

“First, we want to educate our customers about the entire process a coffee bean goes through before ending in your cup,” said Cano

“Second, we want to show our customers the different methods of preparations, the different ways coffee can be drank; and how all this together can affect, change and create a custom cup of coffee.”

“Finally, we will provide to our customers the most exclusive specialty coffee in the market; by being involved in the entire process of the coffee. From managing the harvest in the farm, roasting, packaging and preparing the coffee.”

Shanasai is a software and information services firm whose work impacts communities across the world.

Best known for their work on Matnsaz, which builds novel new technology for the Arabic script, speakers of languages such as Urdu and Arabic in South Asia, the US, Canada & the UK are benefiting from their work.

“We’re proud that our approach is not just copy-pasting well-known solutions but rather we learn about our customers and their unique needs.” Says Zeerka Ahmed, Owner of Shanasai. “In the technology world especially, there are many underserved populations. Our work is specifically targeted at these historically underserved populations.”

Zeerak is also involved in higher education as a frequent lecturer in design and computer science, as a volunteer for his alma mater, and local non-profits. He is inspired to contribute and help make the community better than how he found it.

Brian Himes is a lifelong member of the Folcroft community for 50 years, and as a staple of the Folcroft community is always willing to participate in school and youth organizations fundraisers and donations.

The relationships with customers and fellow business owners in the community are what Brian is most proud of, focused on helping area kids.

Brian is a 22-year volunteer youth coach and is involved in mentorship with local youth clubs teaching responsibility. He pays kids to clean the restaurant’s parking lot and surrounding areas. No stranger to adversity, Brian lost his leg 23 years ago after an accident and subsequent infection. It has not stopped him from running his business or being a vital part of the community.

Nunzi Advertising creates products that increase brand awareness, enhance events, and generate consumer engagement for clients.

In addition, the company has worked to support the Riverside Jr. Vikings, Riverside SD and Taylor PD. “We are always proud of the work that we do with schools and non-profits,” said owner Nunzi Allegruzzi.

“We have worked with many non-profits like the Jude Zayac Foundation and the Andrew Mazza Foundation for several years!”

The company has team members who have worked with the Leadership Lackawanna Program and several who volunteer in their local communities.

Born and raised Eastonian, Abbey Borroughs has been actively involved in the community for the last eight years with coaching at the local high school and the past four years running her business. Confetti Affairs is a design, styling and planning company located in Easton. Staying up to date with today’s party decor and styling trends to create memorable events.

Her business plays an active part in the community as it donates balloon services for high schools, athletics, student and school events, family nights and wherever else the balloons can be of service to the community.

The Children’s Lighthouse of Spring is an early learning school or a childcare provider catering to the families living in surrounding community of Spring-Harmony.

Parents can go to work, earn an income, contribute and grow the economy knowing their children are safe, learning and having fun in our school.

APC Bookkeeping has been in business for four years, helping more than 20 businesses manage their company finances.
Owner Karen Willams is proud she can help businesses thrive so that their employees can earn a living.

As a member of the Lehigh Valley community, Freedom for Living Financial Services has provided complementary financial services and strategies for families, individuals and small businesses since 2008.

Ronald Rogers, financial consultant and owner of Freedom for Living Financial Services, does not charge a fee for services. Rather, his company aims to empower people by providing the knowledge and tools needed for them to make the right decisions regarding their money, goals, and dreams – regardless of how much or little the individual has.

With over 400 active clients throughout 25 states, Ronald has helped many individuals get out of debt, save money by obtaining proper and affordable insurance protection, as well as create a plan for retirement

As a member of the Evansville community, Integrative Music Therapy LLC, a music therapy practice that has been serving more than 2,000 individuals and families in the tri state area since 2007.

Integrative Music Therapy services individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and autism and was chosen due to its dedication in supporting individuals and families to access a better quality of life through the intentional application of neurologic music therapy. Its strength-based, neuroscience-informed approach has unleashed potential and supported individuals of all ages to overcome physical, sensory-motor, communication, mental health and academic challenges to live lives filled with confidence, understanding, and hope.

As a non-profit, Integrative Music Therapy will be able to allocate more resources in helping members in the communities it serves with the offset of costs it had budgeted for internet service for the year.

As a member of the Humboldt Park community for 30 years, The Honeycomb Network is a multi-functional co-working and co-creating community space and serves as a boutique apothecary gift shop, wellness center, event space and gallery for residents to gather.

As the winner of Astound’s small business initiative in offering a year of free internet service, The Honeycomb Network will be able to redirect resources spent on high-speed internet costs to other community offerings/amenities.

North Mason Food Bank has been operating in Belfair since 1983. With an emphasis on dignity and respect, the food bank builds community, shares abundance, and nourishes lives. The organization provides food and basic hygiene to anyone who comes to the food bank, with a belief that everyone in the community should have access to these essentials and should be able to receive them with dignity and respect.

The food bank works to eliminate food insecurity and connect the community. Employees are inspired everyday by the community that is created through this sharing of abundance, from the tireless volunteer hours that are put in, to the thoughtfulness and generosity of donors.

The food bank collaborates with other service providers in the community. This includes providing holiday meals in collaboration with Faith in Action (the Hub) and the former North Mason Resources, as well as the Giving Tree. It also collaborates with many local businesses in order to spread the word and to host food and donation drives. The organization has set a goal to strengthen these community partnerships, while striving to increase collaboration in the North Mason community over the next years

Click here to read an article about the Food Bank being gifted a year of free Internet.

Bennett’s has supported area charities and schools daily since 1990, with a constant presence in the community. In that time, the business has built school gardens, hosted many fundraisers and supported the community in general.

Now it has named its new restaurant coming to Rocklin, as Bennett’s Westside Grill, continuing its involvement in the community for years to come.

Being most proud of its ongoing commitment to the surrounding community, Bennett’s volunteers for and supports many local nonprofits: In January 2023 alone, the organization donated 29 gift boxes for non-profit fund raisers. If there is a need, the business tries to fill it with hospitality and service.

Oakland Uptown Barre LLC was formed in January 2020, just before the impact of the COVID pandemic and the resulting Bay Area lockdown. Pure Barre Oakland | Uptown was finally able to open on February 6, 2023. Being brand-new, the health and fitness business has not made its full impact yet. Even so, it already has more than 220 members, with a vision to significantly benefit its local community by providing a safe and inclusive environment for people improve their health and wellbeing through low impact / high intensity exercise that is motivating and fun to do.

The Bay Area, and Oakland in particular, has been slow to recover from the pandemic lockdown, as this took a toll on the local economy and the health and wellbeing of the community. Oakland is a vibrant, multicultural city and the company feels that its business can help play a key role in reviving and recovery of that dynamic atmosphere that was put on “pause” during the pandemic. People need to be with other people, socializing, interacting, growing and being active together to be healthy and happy.

Uptown Barre believes that as its business grows and becomes more established, it can become a strong force for positive good.

Ashtown has been a member of the Longview-area community for more than a decade, though the company recently moved to its new location and expanded its tasting room.

Ashtown supports and donates to causes that help build its surrounding community, through fundraising and supporting its local first-responders and other causes that are important to building our community. The company believes an additional impact lies in providing a safe, comfortable, and relaxed atmosphere where families can unwind and enjoy themselves.

Ashtown takes pride in its reputation and the impact it has been able to have through serving great beer and providing a place where the community can gather and use Ashtown’s business to help their causes.

The company has a non-profit called the Ashtown Foundation to fundraise for community causes. Most recently, this featured a fundraiser to support local Police department’s K9 unit.

A recent member of the Corpus Christi community, Mellissa Mitchell opened the only gallery on the island in July 2021. The gallery represents 80 local artists, giving them an outlet to not only grow but to share and sell their work. With the implementation of marketing through social media, the gallery has been able to ship across the U.S. The gallery also offers a wide variety of art classes for children and adults. Melissa Mitchell hopes to continue to bring forward the amazing talents of local artists and host fun events for residents and visitors like their monthly free event, Sip & Shop. Padre Island Art Gallery supports the Texas Sealife Center on a regular basis through its partnership with one of Padre’s artists, M Kelly Olsen, and they also support a variety of non-profit organizations through fund-raising events and activities.

Code Ninjas are one of the three winners of Astound Broadband’s First-Annual Small Business Initiative with the goal “to light that spark of love of coding and technology to kids in our community.” Their importance and impact in the community is shown through the ways in which kids blossom in their programs. Many parents praise Code Ninjas as one of the few after-school activities that stick with their children. Owner of Code Ninjas Sugar Land, Kalika Sinha, is on the board of PACE and Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce. She also volunteers for the Fort Bend Education Foundation and the Lamar CISD Education Foundations, and other local organizations such as Unite & Inspire.

Originally founded in 1889 as The First National Bank of McGregor, TFNB Your Bank for Life is one of the oldest national banks in Texas. In the last 5-10 years, they’ve expanded their geographic footprint to include locations spanning McLennan County. Most recently, they’ve opened the first bank in East Waco in over 100 years. TFNB has partnerships with local universities, government organizations, non-profits, and community leaders to connect their clients to experts needed in each individual situation, effectively customizing each customer experience. They work with and support multiple non-profit organizations in the area and even started their own to help those who help others. TFNB’s Charity Champions program highlights and supports the great work of local nonprofits. To date, they support more than 49 charities through sponsorship, marketing, and leadership development.

Harvard Ave Realty a leading apartment rental agency led by CEO David Sugarman, was nominated for its exceptional services to landlords and prospective tenants in the neighborhoods of Boston, Brookline and Newton, providing housing for thousands of individuals over the past 23 years.

This year Harvard Ave Realty is creating a non-profit focused on providing dental care assistance to economically disadvantaged individuals so every person in need receives the dental care they require to maintain good oral health and ultimately improve their overall quality of life.