Among the highlights of the Western Chester County Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Dinner Celebration was much-deserved kudos for Chip Breuninger, Fred Breuninger and Doug Thompson.
The Breuningers won the Joseph G. Filoromo Jr. Community Services Award, presented annually to an area resident, business or organization exemplifying the dedication to service that was Filoromo’s hallmark. Breuninger Real Estate and Breuninger Insurance have maintained a contributing presence in Coatesville since 1949. Both awardees have given time and talent to organizations such as the Lions Club, Rotary Club, Washington Hose Company, Wagontown Volunteer Fire Company, Coatesville Area Partners for Progress and the Brandywine Health Foundation. Fred retired in 1993, and although the real estate firm closed in 2011, the insurance agency is still under Chip’s watch today, with a second office in Kennett Square.
Thompson, director of retail delivery for Citadel and 2010 Chamber president, was honored with the Elliot R. Jones Memorial Award established to honor that long-time civic leader and WCCCC past president. It is presented annually to a Chamber member who has contributed to making the WCCCC a viable and vibrant organization. Among Thompson’s contributions were establishing a Platinum Sponsorship level to spur sponsor growth and increasing communications to members which created higher event attendance. He served on the Chamber Board from 2008 to 2011, and has been a member since 2006. Thompson also volunteers for the National Iron & Steel Heritage Museum, Good Works and other organizations as part of Citadel’s community commitment.
“It is an absolute honor to receive this award; I am thankful and humbled to be selected as I know there are many others who are worthy,” he said. “Each Chamber President begins the year with this in mind: ‘What can I do to make a difference?’ My mind has always been on a creative course! It was simply a blessing to me to use my gifts to help others, and to provide ideas to the Chamber, like the Platinum Sponsorship, that have a lasting impact.”
The evening’s Diamond Sponsor was the Brandywine Health Foundation. It was held at French Creek Golf Club in Elverson, and entertainment was provided by Shot in the Dark. Many members and friends of the Chamber contributed silent auction items; proceeds benefit the WCCCC Scholarship Fund. To learn more about the Chamber, go to www.westernchestercounty.com or call 610-384-9550.
