OZONA BANK WINS BUSINESS OF THE YEAR. PHOTO BY LANCE WINTER.
BARNABAS CONNECTION WINS NON-PROFIT OF THE YEAR. PHOTO BY LANCE WINTER.
Chamber awards Business, Non-Profit of the Year
The Wimberley Valley Chamber of Commerce recognized a pair outstanding members during an awards mixer at Fall Creek Vineyard last month.
Each year, the organization gives out awards to honor those individuals who have gone above and beyond to serve the Wimberley Valley business community. The pair recognized at the June 22 event included the Business of the Year, Ozona Bank, and Non-Profit of the Year, Barnabas Connection.
Chairwoman of the Board Karen Poe said Ozona Bank helps to support and strengthen the community.
“This business gives back to the community, supports approximately 20 non-profits, is a top-level sponsor of the chamber and supports local small business owners,” Poe explained. “They contribute to the library’s matching fund of up to $5,000 for its new addition and renovation and to the Crisis Bread Basket’s Turkeys Tackling Hunger campaign, with matching funds of up to $5,000 each year.”
She said Ozona Bank is also the presenting sponsor and financial backer for the Wimberley ISD jumbotron and a large donor to the local Rotary Club.
“They also give away four college scholarships to deserving graduates,” Poe added. “This business was also title sponsor for the KWVH’s Kentucky Derby fundraiser, to help support the radio station and its growth. What this community bank donates does not go out of the community; it stays here and helps support and strengthen our community.”
Poe then presented the Non-Profit of the Year award to the Barnabas Connection.
“For the last 19 years, this nonprofit of the year has worked in our community to help those in crisis,” Poe said. “Over the last three years, this nonprofit has also shifted their focus and mission to, ‘Connecting the Wimberley Valley, through community, to change and improve lives.’ Their vision is now ‘To make Wimberley a place for all community members to thrive and for generations to learn and grow.’ They have started clinical services and educational programming this year and are focused on doing all they can for our community.”