FLINT, MI – The Flint & Genesee Group is calling on the community to recognize the businesses, leaders, and professionals who make a difference in Flint and Genesee County.
Nominations are now open for the 11th annual Art of Achievement Awards, with a submission deadline of 11:59 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3.
Nominations can be submitted online at FlintandGenesee.org/aoa. Self-nominations are also accepted.
“The Art of Achievement Awards is one of our favorite events of the year because it allows us to shine a light on the people and places that make Flint & Genesee so special,” said Tim Herman, CEO of the Flint & Genesee Group, in a statement. “We invite the public to join us in this celebration by nominating the professionals, leaders, and businesses who are making a positive impact in our region.”
The awards feature 17 categories, spanning both business and hospitality.
Business awards include recognition for small and large companies, minority-owned businesses, nonprofits, and young professionals, while hospitality honors range from Hotel and Restaurant of the Year to Customer Service Ambassadors.
Andrew Younger, executive director of the Flint & Genesee Chamber, said the variety of categories reflects the many ways people and organizations contribute to the community.
“There are a broad range of factors that make Flint and Genesee County an amazing community, and it’s not enough to recognize just one business,” Younger told MLive-The Flint Journal. “We differentiate between small and large businesses with different awards, and the same with individuals.
“Young professionals are a perfect example — it’s intended to put a spotlight on them in a way that signifies to other young professionals that they can and should be growing in their career.”
Younger noted nominees stand out when their work demonstrates care for the community as well as clear, tangible actions.
“The winners always have examples of how they lived out that spirit and care for this community,” he said.
Younger added that the judging process is conducted by independent judges not tied to the Flint & Genesee Group, and strong submissions should include clear examples of why a nominee is deserving.
The awards gala will be held on Nov. 5 at the FIM Capitol Theatre located in downtown Flint.
Younger described the event as fast and efficient, lasting about an hour, while also highlighting the venue itself as gorgeous and fitting for the celebration.
“This is my favorite night of the year because you learn about all these amazing people,” he said.
For more information or to submit a nomination, visit FlintandGenesee.org/aoa.