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BBB’s Center for Character Ethics is a non-profit organization focused on serving businesses, social enterprises, startups, and non-profit organizations. Our mission is to provide assessment, training, and recognition programs for current and future leaders who are intentional about character, culture, customers, and community.
Cheers to BBB’s trusted leaders! 2024’s ‘Toast to Trusted Leaders’ event honored businesses and students who exemplify integrity, trust, and leadership within our community. The event recognized those who have shown unwavering commitment to ethical conduct and community engagement. Moving forward, we encourage continued support for these exceptional leaders whose contributions inspire a future grounded in trust.
BBB Torch Awards for Ethics were established to publicly recognize local companies that have practices in place that elevate their commitment to ethical business. This year, 23 finalists were chosen for BBB Torch Awards for Ethics:
3 Pillar Homes
Ahola Payroll & HR Solutions
Argo & Lehne Jewelers
Bristlewood Roofing and Remodeling LLC
Capital City Exterminating Co., Inc
CARE Heating and Cooling, Inc.
Chillicothe Ross Chamber of Commerce
Custom Air
E&E Tea Co.
Final Touch Painting
Hocking Hills Portraits LLC
I Heart Real Estate
Kane Learning
Measurement Resources
JUDGES
Adam Koos
Jay Lindner
Marchelle Moore
Parag Shah
Tracey Fate
Mid-State Basement Systems
Milex Complete Auto Care - Mr. Transmission, Columbus Ohio
My Construction Resource
Ohio Basement Authority
Orbit Media Group
Sights Unseen Travel
Snappy’s Automotive
The Chimney Guys
TMAAC-LLC
BBB Torch Awards for Ethics winners demonstrate a high level of Character; foster an authentic Culture; generate trust with their Customers; and make an impact with their Community. These “four C’s” are the basis for the Torch Awards selections.
Ahola Payroll & HR Solutions is redefining payroll and HR nationwide with a personal touch and unmatched transparency. Forget endless contracts and hidden fees - Ahola’s clients enjoy clear pricing, empowered honesty from their sales team, and top-notch, accessible customer service. This family-owned business knows that great culture starts from within. With an employee-first philosophy, they’ve created an engagement committee that works hand-in-hand with leadership to foster meaningful programs and events, connecting deeply with their team at every level.
CARE Heating and Cooling Inc. isn’t your average HVAC company - it’s a pioneer in transparency. For years, they’ve witnessed the Trust customers place in their technicians, which inspired their unique “no performance pay” policy. This approach prioritizes honesty and ensures their technicians always have customers’ best interests at heart. CARE’s dedication to a positive culture is evident in their team-oriented service department, where every voice counts. By separating service and sales, CARE’s clients feel genuinely cared for, creating a ripple effect that allows CARE to deliver the most reliable service in town.
Kane Learning is a boutique consulting firm with a knack for custom solutions and an even bigger heart. Gratitude is woven into their DNA, fostering a unique vibe that clients and team members feel from day one. With open conversations about the state of the business and a culture that encourages everyone to “think like an owner,” Kane Learning’s team is empowered to build genuine, lasting client relationships. And when they’re not going above and beyond for clients, they’re sharing their expertise in strategic planning and leadership development with local nonprofits, generously volunteering their time to support organizations that make a difference in the community.
Complete Auto Care - Mr. Transmission of Columbus, Ohio, offers top-to-bottom automotive services with a special focus on transmission repairs and rebuilds. Honesty and efficiency are at the core of what they do, building trust and long-term relationships with their customers. But their commitment goes further - Milex employees regularly volunteer to provide free car repairs to those in need. Milex also invests in the future of the industry by supporting educational programs and scholarships for aspiring automotive professionals. Their generosity of time and talent truly sets them apart in the world of auto care.
BBB Spark Awards recognize entrepreneurs 35 and under or those in business for three years or less who demonstrate high character, authentic culture, and connect with the community.
This year’s winners are:
Eye Co.
Esther Salata
Jay Lindner
Lauren Edwards
Nevin Bansal
Checking on Our Loved Ones is on a heartfelt mission to ensure no one feels isolated. Offering call center-level wellness checks, their small yet mighty team understands that true support goes beyond the call - it’s about meaningful human connection. With Quality Assurance, Quality Control, and Empathy Goals as their foundation, they stay focused on the compassionate touch that drives their work. As they grow, Checking on Our Loved Ones amplifies their impact by giving back through community education and financial support. These aren’t just initiativesthey’re a testament to the power of community care and the belief that no one should feel alone.
Eye Co. is more than a medical optometric office; it’s a place where vision care and compassion go hand in hand. Treating patients like family, Eye Co. is committed to advancing eye health through comprehensive, personalized care. With a team grounded in respect and open communication, they ensure everyone shares the same dedication to delivering top-tier service. Eye Co.’s commitment to the community is as clear as their vision - whether they’re offering essential eye care for those in need or hosting free public health education events, Eye Co. shows they’re invested in making their community healthier and brighter.
2021 SPARK CLASS
The BBB Students of Integrity Scholarship recognizes 10 local high school seniors who exhibit high character through leadership, community service, integrity, and academic performance. The 2024 Students of Integrity scholarships are made possible by the generosity of Rosati Windows.
Each of the following students will receive a $1,000 scholarship to the college or university of their choice:
Caitlin O’Brien, Olentangy High School
Caroline Beegle, Upper Arlington High School
Claire Brown, Fairfield Union High School
Eric Sese, Hilliard Bradley High School
Marianna Packer, Westfall High School
Noah Dever, John Glenn High School
Noah Hamilton
Raheed Zaman, Olentangy Berlin High School
Samara Davis, Mount Vernon High School
Taran Logwood, West Liberty-Salem High School
Ciera Woods
Erin Ensign
Hillary Bates
Janet Tressler Davis
Kathy Lechman
Rachel Will
Scott Failorr
Rosati Windows
Celebrates the winners of the “Rosati Windows has always believed in supporting our future leaders. Because we know, together, we can build a brighter tomorrow.”
Mike Rosati
