Emerge Chosen as Dayton Business of the Year

XENIA — Just a few short years ago, the former Greene County Career Center sat vacant and silent. Today, those same halls are filled with energy, purpose, and new beginnings. From a bold vision to a thriving 45-acre campus, Emerge Recovery & Trade Initiative has grown into one of Ohio's most inspiring examples of what's possible when recovery, community, and opportunity come together.

That remarkable journey was recognized this month when the Dayton Business Journal named Emerge both "Not-for-Profit Business of the Year" and "Nonprofit of the Year." The honors celebrate Emerge's innovative model that unites recovery, vocational training, and workforce development—empowering individuals in recovery and youth aging out of foster care to rebuild their lives.

Emerge CEO Rachel Huffman, who was recently elected to the Xenia City Council, accepted the awards on behalf of the organization.

Board Member Reflects on Growth

Emerge Board Member Terry F. Offenberger also expressed gratitude for the recognition and reflected on the organization's growth.

"I want to express my gratitude to the Dayton Business Journal for recognizing ERTI as the 2025 Not-for-Profit Organization of the Year and Business of the Year. The culture our leadership has developed has fueled the growth of an ecosystem where community, accountability, recovery, training, education, employment, and entrepreneurship all work together to improve the lives of the people we serve. The DBJ honors are humbling and much appreciated. God is good."

— Terry F. Offenberger, Emerge Board Member

A Community Achievement

Elaine Bonner, Director of Philanthropy at Emerge, emphasized how the recognition belongs to everyone who contributes to the mission.

"We're deeply honored by this recognition. These awards belong to our residents, our staff, our partners, and the Miami Valley community that believes in second chances. We're excited to build on this momentum to help even more people rebuild their lives."

— Elaine Bonner, Director of Philanthropy

Looking Forward

We are humbled by this recognition and remain committed to expanding our reach and impact. With plans to open women's services and our Former Foster Youth Program in the coming years, we continue to grow our capacity to serve those who need us most.

Thank you to the Dayton Business Journal for this honor, and to everyone who has supported our mission. Together, we are proving that recovery works, and that every person deserves a second chance.