PORT ANGELES – The Port Angeles Chamber of Commerce hosted a spectacular gala celebrating the achievements of local businesses and community leaders. The event, which brought together business owners, community advocates, and local leaders, highlighted the impact of those who contribute to the growth and well-being of Port Angeles.
The nominations were made by the public and a panel of community members judged.
The “Business of the Year” award, was presented to Swain’s General Store.
For 66 years, Swain’s has been a place where neighbors come together, where tradition meets generosity, and where giving back is at the heart of everything they do.
Through the Swain’s Family Foundation, established by Cliff Swain, the store has contributed more than $650,000 to local charities, youth programs and community events, supporting everything from sports teams to school groups to nonprofit initiatives.
Other individuals and organizations earning top honors were:
• Danny Steiger – Citizen of the Year.
As CEO of Lumber Traders, Inc., Steiger has overseen major redevelopment projects, most notably transforming the former Sears building into Angeles Rentals, bringing new jobs and renewed energy to a key part of Port Angeles.
Steiger also has been an advocate for solving the affordable housing crisis, offering discounts through Lumber Traders to support nonprofit housing projects.
He serves on the Habitat for Humanity board, the Port Angeles Planning Commission, the Housing Solutions Committee and the Workforce Development Council.
• First Step Family Support – Organization of the Year.
From providing food, clothing, books and toys to counseling for parents and substance abuse support, First Step is dedicated to helping underprivileged families thrive. Its mission is to build family strengths by connecting caregivers with essential resources and support.
Its impact in 2023 included 1,790 families receiving direct support, 283,244 diapers distributed to more than 900 families, and a growing team of 34 advocates, nurses, case managers and specialists who continue to reach more families each year.
• Ridgeline Home Health – Emerging Business of the Year.
Since it opened four years ago, Ridgeline Homecare Cooperative (RHC) has made an impact on the lives of seniors, filling a critical gap in home-based care while pioneering a new model of caregiving.
Unlike traditional agencies, this business is owned and operated by its caregivers, ensuring that those providing care have a voice in decision-making, better wages and greater job satisfaction. That leads to better retention, higher-quality care and stronger relationships between caregivers and clients.
RHC also partners with local organizations to advocate for senior care, offer educational workshops and support community initiatives. Its success has led to expanding services in Sequim and throughout Clallam County.
• Jason Gooding – Educator of the Year.
For the past 11 years, Gooding has been a pillar of support for students, families and educators across the school district. As a school counselor, he has helped students navigate the challenges of academics, personal growth and planning for the future.
He has played a key role in improving district-wide systems, streamlining the High School and Beyond process, strengthening partnerships with Peninsula College and ensuring homeschool and online learners receive the support they need.
• Rose Thompson – Young Leader of the Year.
From serving as the executive director of the Dungeness Crab Festival to her work with the Juan de Fuca Festival, the Waterfront District and Fungi Fest, Thompson has been instrumental in ensuring that the local economy and culture flourish.
Thompson also is a community builder. Whether she’s running Fogtown Coffee, coordinating fundraisers or volunteering at the downtown association, Rose never hesitates to help.
Her colleagues describe her as unstoppable, dedicated and someone who makes a difference without asking for credit.