OPINION: Leaning into giving in 2025
In his holiday message, Hamilton Chamber of Commerce CEO Greg Dunnett writes that in a year of uncertainty, Hamilton’s business community chose to give back at second annual Hamilton Gives Awards and throughout the year.
If there was one defining theme for Hamilton businesses in 2025, it was uncertainty.
Tariff pressures, inflation, global instability, and an uneven economic outlook forced many Hamilton employers to navigate a difficult and often unpredictable business landscape. Growth plans were paused, costs climbed, and confidence was tested. It was not a year that offered easy answers.
But it was a year that revealed something important.
When conditions were hardest, Hamilton’s business community leaned in.
That spirit was on full display on Dec. 2, Giving Tuesday, when the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce hosted the second annual Hamilton Gives Awards. Holding this celebration on Giving Tuesday was intentional. It aligned perfectly with what the awards represent: a belief that business success and community impact are deeply connected.
What began as a simple idea to recognize generosity has quickly become one of the most meaningful reflections of who we are as a city.
The Hamilton Gives Awards exist to celebrate business leaders, organizations, and not-for-profits who understand that success is not measured only by what you build, but by what you give back. The stories shared that evening were powerful. Businesses stepping up for their neighbours. Not-for-profits driving real, lasting change. Individuals giving their time, talent, and heart to make Hamilton stronger.
This year, six award recipients were recognized across categories that reflect the depth and diversity of impact happening in our community.
Ron Rambarran received the Social Impact Lifetime Achievement Award for a lifetime of commitment to Hamilton and a legacy defined by generosity and compassion. Kristine Leadbetter-Gold was honoured as the Social Impact Rising Leader, representing a new generation of purpose-driven leadership already making a difference.
Empire Mortgage Group received the Business For Good Award, showing how small and mid-sized businesses can have an outsized community impact. AIM Recycling was recognized with the Community Builder Award for its ongoing commitment to ethical leadership and responsible growth in Hamilton.
On the not-for-profit side, Wesley was named Non-Profit Changemaker for its strong governance, leadership, and long-term impact, while Distress Centre Halton received the Non-Profit Innovator for Good Award for pioneering initiatives delivering measurable benefits to the community.
Just as important as the winners were the finalists. Their accomplishments do more than inspire. They set the pace for what is possible when we work together.
The Hamilton Gives Awards would not exist without the leadership of our two presenting partners, United Way Halton & Hamilton and the McKeil Family Foundation. From the beginning, both organizations jumped in with both feet and believed in the idea behind this event.
Because of that partnership, and the generosity of everyone who participated, the Hamilton Gives Awards have generated nearly $60,000 in charitable contributions over the past two years. Those funds stay local and directly support Hamilton’s not-for-profit sector. In a year marked by economic pressure and uncertainty, that impact matters more than ever.
The needs in our community are real. Housing insecurity, food access, mental health supports, and workforce challenges do not disappear when times are tough. In many cases, they become more urgent. What gives me confidence is knowing Hamilton’s business community understands its role in meeting those needs.
Giving back is not separate from doing business. It is part of doing business well.
As we move through the holiday season, I encourage everyone to pay it forward. Shop local. Support Hamilton businesses. Give where you can.
2025 reminded us that even in uncertain times, Hamilton chooses generosity, connection, and community. And that choice is our greatest strength.
Greg Dunnett is president and CEO of the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce. He will be contributing to HAMILTON CITY Magazine in print and online.
