Idaho Veterans Chamber of Commerce Announces Nominees for 2025 Champions of Freedom Annual Awards

From: Idaho Veterans Chamber of Commerce

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Nampa, Idaho – January 13, 2026 - The Idaho Veterans Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the nominees for the 2025 Champions of Freedom Awards. This prestigious event celebrates the dedication and impact of community partners, businesses, and individuals who have significantly contributed to supporting Idaho’s veterans and their families. This year’s Champions of Freedom Awards Ceremony will honor one outstanding recipient in each category from the nominees listed below.

“The Champions of Freedom Awards represent the power of partnership and shared responsibility,” said Dr. Mindi Anderson, Founder and Executive Director of the Idaho Veterans Chamber of Commerce. “These honorees exemplify what it means to stand alongside veterans and military-connected families through sustained action that strengthens Idaho by bridging the gaps between the Idaho and Military Communities

The 2025 Champions of Freedom Award Nominees:

1. Housing Partner of the Year

• Idaho Housing and Finance Association and Idaho Associated General Contractors Recognizing exceptional commitment to providing veterans with housing support and solutions, home repairs, and resources.

2. Education Partner of the Year

• LeapFox Learning and BSU Veterans Upward Bound Honoring those who advance educational opportunities for veterans and their families.

3. Workforce Partner of the Year

• Idaho AGC and Idaho Department of Labor (Denise Spring) Celebrating partnerships that create career pathways for veterans in the workforce.

4. Entrepreneur Partner of the Year

• Frontier Community Resources and Boise State University College of Innovation of Design

Acknowledging support for veteran entrepreneurs who are shaping Idaho’s business landscape.

5. Family and Wellness Partner of the Year

• Mountain Home Air Force Base Officer Spouses Club and Guardian Paws Highlighting organizations that prioritize the wellness and resilience of veterans and their families.

6. Ambassador of the Year

• Kerry Greenwald, Creekside Mortgage and Skyhawks Treasure Valley Recognizing individuals who passionately advocate for veterans and their needs.

7. Employer Network Member of the Year

• Leveled Up Concrete and Skyhawks Treasure Valley Celebrating employers who create veteran and family friendly workplaces and career opportunities.

8. Veteran Business Owner of the Year

• Hat Ranch Winery and Recon Overland

Honoring successful veteran-owned businesses that exemplify entrepreneurial spirit.

9. Supporter of the Year

• Kim Bird, VAREP and Spark light Highlighting unwavering support for initiatives that empower and uplift Idaho’s veterans.

10. Veteran Resource Organization of the Year

• Business Impact Northwest and Veterans of Foreign Wars Honor Guard, District 5 Honoring organizations that connect veterans with critical resources and services.

11. Executive Director’s Award

• To be announced at the event, this special recognition is awarded to an individual or organization demonstrating unparalleled support and dedication to the mission of the Idaho Veterans Chamber of Commerce.

Each nominee represents a deep commitment to Idaho’s veteran community, and winners will be unveiled at the Champions of Freedom Awards Ceremony on January 29th, 2026, beginning at 5:00 PM at the Galaxy Event Center, Meridian, Idaho. This event promises to be a night of inspiration and celebration, honoring the achievements of those who champion Idaho’s heroes.

For more information about the event or to purchase tickets, please visit https://info.idahoveterans.org/freedomawards or contact the Idaho Veterans Chamber of Commerce at Admin@idahoveterans.org

About the Idaho Veterans Chamber of Commerce:

The Idaho Veterans Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to supporting veterans and their families across Idaho, offering resources and navigation services in education, employment, family support, wellness, and housing. Through collaborative partnerships, the Chamber empowers veterans to thrive in life after the military.