The Cumberland Valley Business Alliance (CVBA) recognized the outstanding achievements of local businesses and community leaders at its annual awards breakfast today, sponsored by M&T Bank. The event was held at the Chambersburg Country Club with over 200 attendees celebrating the vital contributions to the economic and social growth of the region.
CVBA Board Chair, Chris Grimm, emphasized the crucial role of the honorees in fostering a thriving local business community. Dr. Kimberly Eaton, CEO of the Waynesboro YMCA, was a standout, receiving the International ATHENA Leadership Award for her exemplary leadership and her dedication to mentoring women and assisting those transitioning from incarceration.
Brett Frey received the 2025 Innovator of the Year for his expansion of Mobile Works and significant community contributions, including his efforts with the Boys & Girls Club. RKL LLP was named Employer of the Year for its exceptional workplace culture and focus on employee success and professional development.
The ceremony also honored Sweet Grace Ministries as the Small Nonprofit of the Year for its support of families facing infant loss, and the Franklin County Library System as the Large Nonprofit of the Year for its extensive community programming and educational initiatives.
Heather Kohler took home the Spirit of the Community Award for her extensive volunteer work, while Derek Taylor was recognized as the Emerging Business Leader of the Year for his role in expanding Starr Insurance and his community leadership.
The event also commemorated the 2024 Foundations Breakfast by Habitat for Humanity of Franklin County as the Event of the Year, which successfully raised over $63,000 for affordable housing initiatives.
The CVBA, a partnership between the Chambersburg and Greencastle-Antrim chambers of commerce, continues to be a cornerstone of business advocacy in Franklin County, fostering the region’s prosperity and quality of life. For more details, visit CVBAlliance.org.
