Annual Champions of Freedom Awards

Join Us as we celebrate the Idaho Veterans and community at our upcoming Champions of Freedom! We will be honoring our dedicated members and community partners who have gone above and beyond to support the Veterans Chamber in 2025 and learn more as we share our mission plans for what is to come in 2026.

Our hope is that all in attendance will learn more about our mission, and the impact we have had on the communities across Idaho and better understand the way we truly bridge the gaps between the Idaho and Military Communities through our Community Navigation Services in Housing, Education, Entrepreneur, Workforce, Family, and Wellness.

We will also be showing appreciation our sponsors, employers, agencies, and ambassadors who have provided tremendous support to our organization over the last several years. We look forward to you joining us as we further our mission to collaborate, connect, and build stronger unity across Idaho leaving no military member or their families behind.

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

One recipient in each category to be honored at the upcoming awards ceremony.

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:

Housing Partner

Finance Association and Idaho Associated General Contractors

- Recognizing exceptional commitment to providing veterans with housing support and solutions, home repairs, and resources.
Education Partner of the Year
- LeapFox Learning and BSU Veterans Upward Bound
  Honoring those who advance educational opportunities for veterans and their families.
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.
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.

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.
Ambassador of the Year
- Kerry Greenwald, Creekside Mortgage and Skyhawks Treasure Valley
  Recognizing individuals who passionately advocate for veterans and their needs.
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.
Veteran Business Owner of the Year
- Hat Ranch Winery and Recon Overland

Honoring successful veteran-owned businesses that exemplify entrepreneurial spirit.

Supporter of the Year
- Kim Bird, VAREP and Spark light
  Highlighting unwavering support for initiatives that empower and uplift Idaho’s veterans.
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.
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 vetern 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.

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Evening of Events
5:00 - 5:45 Social Hour
5:45 Seating/Posting of the colors/National Anthem
- Dinner
- Impact Stories & Testimonials, Sponsorship/Grantor Recognition
- Idaho Veterans Chamber Annual Report Sneak Peak Highlights for 2025 & 2026 Goals
- Keynote Speaker Awards \
- Announcements of 2026 Annual Award Recipients

You don't want to miss the last event of the year where we will unite as one network and honor so many who have made a difference, creating unity and strength across The State of Idaho. We welcome anyone to join us!

Becoming a sponsor for the Idaho Veterans Chamber of Commerce Freedom Awards offers a unique opportunity to support Idaho’s veteran and military community while elevating your brand’s visibility within the community. Your sponsorship will help fund the event and ensure the continued success of initiatives that support veterans, service members, and their families to further connect with the Idaho Community. By becoming an Event Sponsor, you are leading the charge in supporting Idaho veterans and their families. Your contribution helps sustain vital veteran programs and services, while providing your organization with a highly visible platform to show your commitment to the community.

Why Sponsor the Freedom Awards?

Sponsoring the Freedom Awards allows your organization to demonstrate leadership and commitment to Idaho’s veteran and military community. Your support not only helps fund this prestigious event but also sustains year-round initiatives that provide veterans with the resources and tools they need to succeed. Each sponsorship level offers unique visibility and networking opportunities that will leave a lasting impression on both the veteran community and the public.

Why Attend the Freedom Awards?

Attending the Idaho Veterans Chamber of Commerce Freedom Awards is more than just a ticket to a prestigious event—it’s an opportunity to engage with a powerful community of leaders, veterans, and supporters who are making a real difference in the lives of Idaho’s military members and their families. Here’s why you should attend:

1. Celebrate Heroes in Our Community

The Freedom Awards celebrate those who have gone above and beyond in serving Idaho’s veteran and military community. By attending, you have the chance to honor these heroes and show your appreciation for their service and dedication.

2. Connect with Community and Business Leaders

This event brings together top leaders from Idaho’s business, nonprofit, and public sectors who share a passion for supporting veterans. It’s an excellent networking opportunity to meet like-minded individuals who are committed to making a difference.

3. Make a Tangible Impact

Your presence at the Freedom Awards directly contributes to the success of veteran services and programs in Idaho. The funds raised help sustain initiatives that provide job placement, financial literacy, mental health support, and more to veterans and their families.

4. Experience a Memorable Evening

From the inspiring stories of our award winners to the opportunity to enjoy a premium dinner and entertainment, the Freedom Awards offers an unforgettable experience. It’s a chance to celebrate, reflect, and be inspired by the incredible contributions of our veterans and community partners.

5. Support Local Veterans

Every ticket purchased and every sponsorship plays a crucial role in supporting Idaho veterans as they transition into civilian life. Whether through job training, housing assistance, or mental health resources, your attendance helps ensure that our veterans receive the care and services they deserve.