Business of the Year:
Washington County Hospital and Clinics (WCHC)

Washington County Hospital and Clinics (WCHC) has long been recognized as a leader in healthcare excellence, and in 2024, the organization’s contributions to the region are being celebrated with the prestigious title of Business of the Year. In recent years, WCHC has not only grown but has also raised the bar in patient care, innovation, and economic impact in our community.

This year, WCHC has earned a number of prestigious accolades. The hospital was named one of the Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals in the nation for the third time, reinforcing its status as a healthcare provider of exceptional quality. Additionally, WCHC was recognized as a Top 20 Critical Access Hospital in the country and honored as one of the “Coolest Places to Work” by the Corridor Business Journal. These awards are a testament to the hospital’s dedication to both exceptional patient care and creating a positive workplace environment.

But recognition is only part of the story. WCHC’s impact goes beyond accolades, transforming the way healthcare is delivered in our region and ensuring that medical care is not only accessible but also innovative and comprehensive. Over the past year alone, WCHC has made significant strides in expanding and enhancing services for the community:

• Expanded Primary Care Access: The opening of a new clinic in Kalona and the announcement of another soon to open in Mediapolis brings high-quality healthcare closer to more families.
• Revolutionized Patient Care: The launch of Epic, an advanced electronic health record system, has streamlined communication and coordination across the hospital, improving the patient experience.
• Broadened Specialty Care: New specialties, including pulmonology, genetic oncology, urology, rheumatology, dermatology, and more, have been introduced. Additionally, cardiology and neurology services have been expanded, bringing advanced care options closer to home for patients who previously had to travel long distances.
• Future Growth: WCHC continues to introduce even more specialties, ensuring that no matter the healthcare need, the community can rely on WCHC to provide the care it requires.

Beyond healthcare, WCHC plays a crucial role in the local economy. In the past year alone, WCHC contributed $81.5 million to the local economy and supported nearly 600 jobs. The hospital’s commitment to the region extends beyond patient care, with WCHC sponsoring over 40 community events and organizations, further investing in the vitality and well-being of the entire area.

These accomplishments are a direct result of the leadership, dedication, and hard work of the staff, providers, and team members at WCHC. Their motto, “More Than You Expect,” is reflected in everything they do, and tonight, we proudly celebrate their ongoing commitment to excellence.Please join us in congratulating Washington County Hospital and Clinics as the 2024 Business of the Year!

Citizen of the Year:
Karisa Mellinger, Mama Llama’s Barn

Last night, we proudly honored Darren Brown, a dedicated community leader whose tireless commitment to service has transformed lives in Washington County. A man who saw a critical need, felt a calling, and took action, Darren has created a lasting impact on those in our community facing homelessness and crisis.

As the founder and director of Tribulation & Trust Ministries and The Lighthouse Center, Darren has spent years working to provide essential support, including emergency shelter, food, clothing, and counseling to individuals in need. When Washington County lacked an official homeless shelter, Darren stepped forward with a mission to not only provide immediate relief but also to help people rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.

Under Darren’s leadership, The Lighthouse Center has grown into a beacon of support for hundreds of individuals and families since its opening in 2019. More than just a temporary shelter, The Lighthouse Center offers life skills training, financial guidance, and a pathway to self-sufficiency for those facing hardship. Darren’s faith, perseverance, and visionary leadership have transformed this initiative into a vital community resource.

Further demonstrating his commitment to sustainability, Darren founded The Master’s Hand Thrift Store, ensuring the continued operation of the shelter without relying on government funding. His work focuses not only on providing immediate aid but on empowering individuals with the tools necessary to regain stability and independence.

Darren’s impact extends far beyond The Lighthouse Center. He has illuminated the realities of homelessness in Washington County, inspiring others to take action and be part of the solution. Through his unwavering faith and dedication, Darren has made an extraordinary difference in the lives of so many.

It is with immense pride and gratitude that we recognize Darren Brown as the Washington Chamber’s 2024 Citizen of the Year. Please join us in celebrating this well-deserved honor and the incredible contributions Darren has made to our community.

Heart of Main Street (individual) Award:
Jena Steele & Wilson Leppert

In the two short years she’s been with us, Jena has become an indispensable part of our Main Street family. Simply put, if there’s an event, Jena is there, ready to jump in and help. She’s the first to sign up, the first to arrive, and the last to leave. Jena serves on not one, but two of our four committees, bringing her boundless energy and unwavering dedication to everything she does. Whether it’s carrying the heavy stuff, walking miles during bingo, or simply offering a smile that keeps everyone going, Jena’s positive spirit is infectious. We are incredibly fortunate to have her on our side.

Wilson, through his photography business and his work at Farm Bureau, has generously shared his incredible talent with Main Street Washington for the past two years.

His photography skills have significantly elevated our marketing efforts, allowing us to showcase the vibrancy and excitement of our events. He captures our crazy confetti celebrations perfectly as well as countless other moments that tell the story of our community. Wilson prefers to be behind the camera, capturing the magic, rather than in front of it. His quiet dedication and commitment to excellence are truly invaluable.

Heart of Main Street (business) Award:
LUX Suites/Deana Delong

Deana purchased a building on our square with a bold vision: to create both a vibrant retail space and elegant salon suites. And she didn’t just dream it, she made it happen. With countless hours of demolition, painting, sanding, and hard work, Deana transformed the space into two stunning additions to our downtown.

Her commitment to revitalization is evident in every detail. She utilized a $25,000 DIG grant to enhance the building’s facade, creating a truly eye-catching presence. Deana’s dedication has not only improved her own business, but has also inspired other businesses to invest in their properties. It’s been truly wonderful to witness her dream come to life.

Harvey Holden Special Service Award:

Since 1998, the Washington Economic Development Group has awarded the Harvey Holden Outstanding Service Award. The award is named for Harvey Holden. Mr. Holden retired in 1998 from the City of Washington after several terms as Mayor, and several prior terms on the Washington City Council. He was a farmer and businessman. He served on the board of directors of several businesses and non-profit organizations. He was passionate about Washington, dedicated to service and doing his best for this community.

RenElla Crawford of HACAP was awarded the Harvey Holden award for working closely with private individuals, businesses, and the health care sectors to address the needs of our communities. She has played an important and unique role in mitigating the economic consequences of late. Crawford has worked tirelessly, especially in the past few years, to keep Washington County residents safe and housed in a rapidly changing housing shortage and inflationary environment. She went above and beyond in establishing housing and food for those in need while volunteering on countless boards and committees.

Harvey Holden Special Service Award:

Hawkeye Area Community Action Program (HACAP)