WEST CHESTER, PA — The Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 Annual Banquet, set for October 22 at The Desmond Hotel and Conference Center in Malvern, will honor local individuals, businesses, and organizations for their exceptional contributions to the community. Sponsored by My Benefit Advisor, the evening will showcase the impact of those who embody the spirit of service in West Chester.
Business of the Year Award
The 2024 Business of the Year Award, sponsored by West Chester University, will be presented to JDog Junk Removal & Hauling of West Chester. The veteran-owned and operated business is recognized for upholding its principles of Respect, Integrity, and Trust, while actively supporting veterans, local organizations, and schools. Beyond serving the community, JDog donates household goods to nonprofits such as The Community Warehouse Project of Chester County and Habitat for Humanity, recycling nearly 80% of their haul. The company also provides crucial support for the staging of the annual West Chester Christmas Parade.
“It’s an honor to be recognized by the Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce with this distinguished award,” said Rob Dennis, Owner of JDog Junk Removal & Hauling. “On behalf of all our active military and veteran team members, we are grateful to be recognized for our continued and proud service to the community.”
Outstanding Citizens of the Year
The 2024 Outstanding Citizens of the Year honor will go to The Sammarone Family, including Mark, Tracy, and Chelsea McGovern, for their dedication to volunteerism and community betterment. The family’s work has benefited organizations such as The Rotary Club of West Chester, The West Chester Downtown Foundation, and The Community Warehouse Project of Chester County.
“Our family is humbled and honored to be singled out from so many other hard-working community volunteers for this award,” said Mark Sammarone. “We feel very blessed to be part of such a vibrant community that has given us many opportunities to make lifelong friendships in the service of others.”
Community Service Organization of the Year
Home of the Sparrow will be recognized as the 2024 Community Service Organization of the Year, sponsored by Fulton Bank. Since 1994, the nonprofit has partnered with women and children facing homelessness in Chester County, providing them with housing and long-term stability.
“I just learned that the Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce has been recognizing a community service organization every year since 1961,” said Michelle Venema, CEO of Home of the Sparrow. “I am so honored that this year, that community organization is Home of the Sparrow. Our work transforms the lives of women and children in Chester County with the goal of ensuring that they never experience the trauma of homelessness. Thank you for this incredible recognition.”
Celebrating Community Service
Katie Walker, President of the Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce, expressed her enthusiasm for the event. “We are so pleased to celebrate these very deserving honorees at the 2025 Annual Banquet. Each of our awardees has proven their commitment and service to making our community a better place.”
The banquet will feature cocktails, dinner, and a ceremony dedicated to celebrating the honorees. Sponsorship and ticket details will be announced soon.
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