FRANKLIN, Ind. – The Greater Franklin Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual meeting on Thursday, February 13 in collaboration with the City of Franklin’s State of the City Address. A capacity crowd of 350 attended the event at Garment Factory Events in downtown Franklin. The annual meeting celebrates the City of Franklin and recognizes outstanding individuals and organizations.
Amy Richardson was acknowledged for being the 2023 and 2024 Board Chair. She was also recognized as a champion for the chamber and the community. Richardson will continue to serve the Franklin Chamber on the executive team as Past Board Chair.
Franklin Chamber Community Service Award: Abigail Shuck/Raising Spirits
The Community Service Award is presented to an individual or organization that has contributed significantly to the Franklin Community, serving selflessly without intent for personal or monetary gain. Over the past three years, Shuck and Raising Spirits have raised more than $400,000 to support local, non-profits like the Boys and Girls Club of Johnson County, Johnson County Senior Services, Franklin Education Connection, the Humane Society of Johnson County, and Bridges Alliance. The Chamber acknowledged their philanthropic commitment to local nonprofits.
Franklin Chamber Community Impact Awards: United Way of Johnson County
The Community Impact Award recognizes a business or organization that has demonstrated outstanding business success in growth, stability, and commitment to quality of life and overall contribution to the community. With a dedicated team of just a few staff members and the support of over 200 volunteers each year, United Way of Johnson County touches the lives of one in every four residents in the county. Their fundraising efforts generate over $1 million annually from local businesses and individuals, providing critical funding for 16 local social service agencies and their 70+ programs. Special recognition went to Nancy Lohr Plake who has served as Executive Director of United Way of Johnson County since 1990. She plans to retire this year.
Franklin Chamber Business Hall of Fame Award: The Grill Bar
The Business Hall of Fame Award recognizes organizations that have been in business for at least 25 years and is presented based on their success in growth and stability, commitment to quality, and overall contribution to the community. The Hall of Fame Award went to a business that has been the heart of the downtown area since 1947. Known as a gathering place for visitors, residents, and their “World Famous Cheeseburger,” The Grill Bar has been a Franklin institution for 78 years. Larry and Manilla Hughes, owners/operators of The Grill Bar for 26 years, accepted the award.
Franklin Chamber of Commerce President/CEO said, “We are honored to recognize these local organizations who exemplify excellence and the cooperative spirit we value in our business community. 2024 was the most successful in our 115-year history. Highlights included creating a pilot program for young entrepreneurs, developing the entrepreneurial program, LAUNCH Johnson County, and continuing to support all local businesses through collaboration, education, and networking opportunities.”
