The Albany Area Chamber of Commerce today recognized Hughey & Neuman as its 2019 Small Business of the Year and The Liberty House as its 2019 NonProfit of theYear. The recognition is part of the Chamber’s 2019 Small Business Week, during which it promotes the impact of small businesses, which create jobs, support families and invest in the community.

The honors were presented during the Chamber’s annual awards reception, during which it recognized allthe finalists in both categories.

“Successful small businesses are cornerstones of our community. They create jobs, they invest, theyparticipate, they shape the commercial landscape and personality of our community,” said Bárbara Rivera Holmes, president and CEO of the Albany Area Chamber. “The Albany Area Chamber’s 2019 Small Business Week highlights the impact of our small businesses and celebrates their successes.”

“Small businesses have big impact,” Holmes said. “For every $100 spent at a small, locally-owned business, $68 stay within the local economy. Those dollars help create jobs, support families, fund government services through sales taxes, provide investment for neighborhood improvements and promote development in our community. It is fitting then, given the role of small businesses on our economy and the resilience and dedication it takes to keep a small business open and growing, that this week we placespecial focus on the Albany Area’s small businesses and that tonight we honor four exceptional businessesand six nonprofit organizations.”

Since 1963 the president of the United States has issued a proclamation announcing National Small Business Week. More than half of Americans either own or work for small businesses, creating about two out of every three jobs.

The Albany Area Chamber’s Small Business Week 2019 is May 6-10. Learn more at albanyga.com.

Hughey & Neuman, 2019 Small Business of the Year

Hughey and Neuman has been in business in Albany for 65 years. During this time, they have assistedclients with buying and selling millions of dollars’ worth of property throughout Southwest Georgia. In2018, Hughey & Neuman rebranded, debuting a new logo, Web site, signage and an overall new, modern aesthetic that better reflects the business of today. Hughey & Neuman – a family-run business that includes Bill and Sharon Hughey and their daughters, the “Selling Sisters” Katie Gatewood and Callie Walker – believes by being cheerleaders for the community and showcasing Albany in a positive light, that they connect with clients on many different levels and show their commitment to the area.

Liberty House, 2019 NonProfit of the Year

Liberty House has served Dougherty County and 16 surrounding counties for 38 years. Liberty Houses’mission is to provide emergency shelter and services for all victims of domestic violence and their children. Liberty House provides a 24-hour crisis line, which includes emergency crisis intervention, information and referral and safety planning; and an emergency shelter, at which services include case management, psychosocial assessment and counseling, child care, school enrollment, transportation, discharge planning and pet placement.