Like most its peer organizations in the area, supporting small and start-up businesses is one of the top priorities of the Highland Griffith Chamber of Commerce, according to president and CEO Lance Ryskamp.
And to make sure as many entrepreneurs as possible can take advantage of its resources and community, the chamber recently rolled out a special Start-Up Business Membership Rate, offering new businesses a discounted rate for their first two years of membership.
“This is just one way we’re working to make the chamber more accessible and supportive for emerging entrepreneurs,” he explains.
The new rate and other initiatives are rooted in what Ryskamp believes to be one of the key objectives of any good chamber — to bring more and more small businesses together under the common cause of helping everyone grow and succeed. And he thinks winning this award two years in a row is sign that Highland Griffith is doing a good job of fulfilling this mandate.
“We try to operate with an informal, welcoming spirit that I believe sets us apart,” he says. “Our members are accomplished leaders in business, nonprofit work and government who offer a powerful blend of experience and insight. This collective knowledge creates an ideal environment for both new and longtime members to connect, grow and thrive together.”
Sabrina “Bean” Burgos still finds it hard to believe her little company was able to take the crown in this competitive category.
“To think how many businesses are out there that are locally owned, and our small family owned company that plays with trash all day came out on top,” says Burgos, who owns 'Merica JunkBoss with her partner Adam Jacobson.
But while the nature of 'Merica JunkBoss may have cast it as a dark horse candidate, the attributes that most customers look for in any business — honesty and reliability — are not limited to a sector or genre. And Burgos says that’s just business as usual for her team.
“We always strive for excellence, no matter how big or small the job and no matter if you’re a first-time client or one that's used us on multiple occasions,” she says. “Some say we go above and beyond, but really we're just doing our job to the best of our ability.”
Stephanie Dorsey knew that one of the main things she wanted customers to feel when walking into her shop was that they were entering a warm and inviting atmosphere. And she sees this honor as evidence that she and her team are succeeding in that regard.
“I believe our secret to success lies in our passion for what we do and our dedication is ensuring that every visit is memorable,” she says. “You may enter as a customer, but you’ll leave as a friend.”
There are a number of other touches that have helped build a loyal and satisfied customer base for Willow Blooms in the early going, including:
A floral design philosophy that emphasizes creativity and personalization
A commitment to designing a custom bouquet each month and donating the proceeds to a local nonprofit
A passion to support other local or women-owned businesses, resulting in a selection of unique gifts curated by more than 40 vendors
The variety of workshops and community events that help foster a sense of belonging for customers.
“We like to say that Willow Blooms is our happy place and hope it will be our customers’ too,” Dorsey notes.
Like many towns in Northwest Indiana, Dyer boasts an enviable location that offers residents a great opportunity to enjoy what Indiana has to offer while remaining accessible to the Chicago job market. So why does Dyer stand out among its Region peers as such a desirable place to call home?
Town manager David Hein has some ideas.
From its small-town feel and abundant park space to its unique dining options and top-notch educational opportunities through the Lake Central School Corporation, Hein says Dyer appeals to a broad range of residents. Add in a diverse housing stock and a strong reputation for safety, and there’s little wonder that this isn’t the first time the town has claimed this honor.
“Dyer has a foundation that relies on a strong history while embracing a bright and prosperous future,” Hein says. “This award acknowledges the hard work and collaboration by our elected officials, town employees and residents — everyone coming together to create a great community to work, live and raise a family in.”
Brandon Rukes believes that the most important elements for a place of worship are love and authenticity, which is why he strives to craft just such an experience at Griffith First Christian Church.
He notes that the most famous verse in all of scripture, John 3:16, says that "whosoever" believes will not perish but have eternal life. And that’s exactly who GFCC is trying to welcome.
“Authentic, loving believers are so important to the faith, and I truly believe that GFCC delivers in this area every week,” says Rukes, the church’s senior pastor. “We are not perfect, but we don't try to be. We are simply real. It is this genuineness that permeates throughout our time of worship, during our weekly groups and Bible studies and our various events.”
That sense of love and authenticity has touched a chord with many Region believers. But for Rukes, it’s more about people worshipping than it is about where they’re worshipping.
“Part of me is super grateful for this honor, but the reality of the situation is that wherever we worship God — whether at another church, at home, with your children in the car or here at GFCC — that is the best place to worship.”
