BBB of Chicago and Northern Illinois announces winners of 2024 Torch Awards
The Better Business Bureau recently announced the 2024 winners of the BBB Torch Awards for Ethics and Excellence, recognized as one of the most prestigious accolades for brand and reputation-building.
The Torch Awards celebrate businesses in Chicago and Northern Illinois that have demonstrated a commitment to trust, ethics, and exceptional service. Open to companies with a minimum of three years in operation, these awards honor those who have set the standard for excellence in their industry.
Torch Awards categories are judged on company size, based on the number of employees, and there also are two specialty categories. They are minority-owned and operated businesses and woman-owned and operated businesses.
“The Torch Awards are the highest honor the BBB can award to a business,” said Steve J. Bernas, president and CEO of the BBB. “These awards are presented annually to outstanding businesses in recognition of their commitment to high standards in character, culture, customers, and engagement with their community. We are so proud to welcome our new winners into the Torch family.”
The 2024 winners include:
Millennium Bank — Des Plaines (minority-owned and operated)
As one of five Minority Depository Institutions in Illinois and the only Illinois-based MDI in DuPage County, Millennium Bank is a business and relationship bank committed to providing traditional banking services to minority, underserved, or traditionally disadvantaged small business customers and is one of the largest SBA lenders in the Midwest.
Artesian Collaborative — Chicago (woman-owned and operated)
Artesian Collaborative is a comprehensive mental health organization that translates psychological sciences into skills that create healthy leaders and workplace communities. It transforms how systems function, enabling companies to actualize their values by bringing skills and health into their organizations to build a culture that supports their employees and processes. Through corporate training, mental health therapy, consultation, and coaching services facilitated by mental health professionals, Artesian Collaborative guides teams through tension equipping them to breakdown the walls that hold back innovation so all people can thrive.
Illinois General Remodeling Services Co. — Elgin (1-9 employees)
Illinois General Remodeling Services Co., a minority-owned and operated roofing and remodeling company, serves residential and commercial clients within a 100-mile radius of downtown Chicago. For six years, it has specialized in roofing, siding, gutters, storm damage restoration, and insurance claim support with in-house licensed public adjusters. It also provides detailed retail estimates, ensuring all construction meets code requirements with exceptional craftsmanship and quality materials. Its diverse, bilingual (Spanish and English) team, including veterans, delivers outstanding results, ensuring a stress-free experience for homeowners and businesses, while prioritizing the well-being and growth of its employees.
Vision2Voice Healthcare Communications — Chicago (10-49 employees)
Vision2Voice Healthcare Communications is a health care communications partner to the world’s leading pharmaceutical, biotech, and medical device companies, helping to communicate the latest scientific, medical, and clinical advances. By developing and delivering interactive peer-to-peer programs, it helps clients engage health care professionals with compelling brand messaging and medical education content.
American Sale — Tinley Park and other locations (100-499 employees)
For 65 years, American Sale has become the Chicago area’s favorite retail store to shop for the largest selection of products in pools, patio furniture, hot tubs, grills, game room, Christmas, and more. Operating out of eight locations, an e-commerce website, and a 200,000-square-foot warehouse in Tinley Park, American Sale has been showcasing and delivering backyard fun and holiday products to thousands of homes over the last six decades.
Bally’s Chicago Casino — Chicago (500-1,499 employees)
Bally’s Chicago is the city’s premier gaming and soon-to-be entertainment destination, offering a world-class experience with a wide range of slot machines, table games, and exceptional customer service. Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, Bally’s current, and future growth plan, is committed to creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and driving economic growth while ensuring a safe, inclusive, and responsible environment for guests and the community.
RSM — Chicago (1,500+ employees)
RSM is the leading provider of professional services to the middle market. Its clients are the engine of global commerce and economic growth. RSM U.S. LLP is the U.S. member of RSM International, a global network of independent assurance, tax and consulting firms with 64,000 people in 120 countries.
Also, Empire Today of Northlake was inducted into the BBB Torch Awards Hall of Fame. Empire is the nation’s largest in-home full-service provider of carpet and hard surface flooring, having served more than 3 million customers over 65 years. A Chicago icon for its 800-588-2300 jingle, Empire has been a partner of the Better Business Bureau since 1974.