Whether it’s an innate compulsion to give back or a profound sense of privilege to be part of making West Chester the place to be, this year’s Greater West Chester Chamber award winners share a passion for volunteering.

“I only feel complete when I am giving back. Selfishly, it enables me to breathe every day,” 2016 Volunteer of the Year Lauren Blake said.

The Conestoga High School alumna and Krombolz Sheets Insurance marketing director has led the GWCCC’s Ambassador Committee and served numerous other organizations.

“In addition to her tremendous volunteer spirit, Lauren is remarkable for her ability to take the initiative in determining what an organization needs and then planning and executing a course of action,” GWCC President Mark Yoder said. “The GWCC is grateful for Lauren’s willingness to share her many talents and honored to name her its 2016 Volunteer of the Year.”

2016 Business of the Year Tolsdorf Oil Lube Express shares a similar perspective of its role in the Chamber.

“I’m not a member for what I get out of it,” Owner Chris Tolsdorf said. “I’m a member so that I can support what the Chamber creates for our community. The events, the education, the networking; these are things that make West Chester such a great place to work and raise a family. When you work with GWCCC or attend their events, you get to know people, and it makes the experience of living in our great small town that much better.”

The nonprofit’s former board chairman is the creative genius behind the Twilight Trike Challenge. He’s also an East High School alumnus, a second-generation owner of the family business and the Unionville High School head rowing coach.

“Chris’ ongoing dedication to the Chamber makes him one of our most valuable assets,” Yoder said. “Thanks to his leadership, creativity and great sense of humor, the Chamber is a better organization. When Chris is involved, you know you’re going to work hard and laugh a lot. The chamber is grateful for his support and honored to recognize Tolsdorf Oil Lube Express as its 2016 Business of the Year.”

Both awards will be bestowed upon their recipients during the GWCC’s Oct. 26 awards luncheon at the Concord Country Club. Read more news about the GWCC on VISTA Today here.