Annual Dinner Recap and Chamber of Commerce Citizen & Business of the Year

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Greater Washington Business Partnership Annual Dinner was held February 27, at the RiversideCasino and Golf Resort. The partnership includes the Washington Economic Development Group (WEDG), Main Street Washington and the Washington Chamber of Commerce. Almost 300 attendees gathered to enjoy a social hour, dinner and a program highlighting the organizational accomplishments from this past year. One of the most anticipated parts of the evening are the award announcements from each of the economic development groups.

 

Washington Chamber Honors Darren Brown as 2024 Citizen of the Year

Washington,  IA [March 10, 2025] — Tonight, 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.

 

Washington County Hospital and Clinics Named 2024 Business of the Year

Washington, IA [March 10, 2025] — 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.

The Washington Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize the Washington County Hospital and Clinics as the 2024 Business of the Year!

The Washington Chamber of Commerce is an advocate for business, promotes business alliances, provides valuable benefits and services to our members, and is a leader for economic development efforts in Washington, Iowa. Since 1935, the Chamber has been a leader in pursuing economic prosperity and quality of life in our community. Serving a diverse group of participants, our members include individuals, organizations and businesses, and they are the heart of this community.