The Greater Federal Way Chamber will honor three businesses with Impact Awards as part of its annual gala on Nov. 3, from 6:30-10 p.m., held at the Washington History Museum.
“Each year, the Chamber recognizes business and community leadership that supports economic growth,” said CEO Rebecca Martin, CCE, in a press release. “This year we are celebrating 65 years of doing business in the state of Washington and our Impact Award recipients illustrate our business legacy, regional connections, and unique economic development in the Federal Way area.”
The 2018 Impact Award recipients: Abbe Vineyards & Winery will receive the Business Impact Award, The Historical Society of Federal Way will receive the Community Impact Award, and Highline College will receive the Regional Impact Award.
“Chamber businesses are setting the pace for economic success,” said Board Vice Chair Robin Corak, CEO, Multi-Service Center. “Our annual Gala celebrates the vision we all share for a strong, innovative and regionally-connected community.”
The Business Impact Award recognizes leadership in providing unique opportunities for business growth through economic initiatives, participation in community and business projects, and a commitment to enhancing economic growth in the region.
Abbe Vineyard and Winery is nestled amongst the green foothills of South King County in Federal Way. Located down the road from West Hybelos Wetland Park, Abbe Vineyard and Winery grows grapes for crafting bottles of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Riesling, Viognier and more.
The Community Impact Award recognizes leadership which serves as a model of inspiration in personal, professional and volunteer efforts; a track-record of community enhancement through a project or business concern designed to make a difference; and service to the community beyond that for which compensation is received.
“We are honored to receive the Community Impact Award, particularly because the Society is celebrating its 30-year anniversary this year,” says Jerry Knutzen, Board Chair, Historical Society of Federal Way. “The Society is committed to encouraging appreciation and advancing the historical legacy of our community.”
Formed in anticipation of the Washington state centennial, the mission of the Historical Society is to serve the public through researching, preserving, educating and displaying the history of Greater Federal Way to build a sense of community identity and heritage.
The Historical Society has an extensive archive of historical information and images of life in Federal Way over the past 100 years. The Society restored the Barker and Denny Cabins which are open to the general public on the second Saturday of each month between May and October.
The Regional Impact Award recognizes leadership in economic development initiatives of the region; a focus on collegially inclusive approach to new and existing business opportunities within our regional corridor; and a commitment to enhancing the economic prosperity of the region.
“As a public institution of higher education, we are extremely pleased to receive the Regional Impact Award,” said Dr. John Mosby, President, Highline College. “Like the Chamber, we serve a diverse community and Highline is committed to preparing students for success in a multicultural world and global economy.”
Highline College is nationally and internationally recognized as a premier community college, a reputation earned through the development of an institutional culture that values innovation, globalization of curriculum and community participation.
Highline is one of 34 community and technical colleges in Washington state.
Highline College is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, an institutional accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the secretary of the United States Department of Education.
In addition to the Impact Awards, JR Computax will receive the 2018 President’s Award. The award honors the special commitment of a member business, often working behind the scenes, to volunteer time, services, equipment, and other support which helps to sustain the Chamber’s overall program of work.
“Our business, like many others in the region, grows when there are strong community partnerships in place to support economic success,” says JR Computax President Jeannette Ramirez. “We’re sincerely honored to know the Chamber has placed confidence in our services and our business.”
The chamber gala is open to the community. Tickets are available at federalwaychamber.com. For sponsorship and program advertising, call the chamber at 253-838-2605.
The Historical Society of Federal Way will receive the Community Impact Award. Courtesy photo
Abbe Vineyards & Winery will receive the Business Impact Award. Courtesy photo
