Heart of Business

Terry Ward

This month's stories reveal how businesses across the region are making profound impacts through service and resilience, demonstrating that success can be measured in more than just financial transactions.

Serve Wenatchee Valley exemplifies how an organization can function as both a vital service and a thriving business. Operating from the Midtown Building, their Fresh Hope Market transforms the traditional food bank model into something that preserves dignity through choice. By allowing families to "shop" with points rather than simply receiving pre-selected items, they provide both nourishment and respect. Their ingenious approach addresses multiple needs simultaneously – when food security is established, resources can be directed toward housing stability, preventing homelessness in our community.

The extensive network of partnerships Serve Wenatchee maintains – from local grocery stores to churches and other outreach programs – mirrors the interconnected business ecosystem that strengthens our entire valley. As Operations Manager Shelley Monda notes, with potential reductions in federal funding, their privately supported model becomes even more crucial. Their story reminds us that successful businesses build community resilience, whether through direct profit or community service.

Meanwhile, Liliana's Fashion Boutique demonstrates how personal tragedy can transform into renewed purpose. Owner Joaquin Granados' story is one of remarkable adaptation following the heartbreaking loss of his wife Liliana to cancer in April 2024. Rather than closing shop, Joaquin is expanding – renovating the space, planning to reintroduce salon services, and continuing to serve the Hispanic and Latino communities with specialized cultural merchandise from quinceañera dresses to traditional wedding attire.

Joaquin's commitment echoes the same themes we see in our other featured businesses this month. Alpenglö Living brings two creative entrepreneurs together to offer not just products but moments of connection through workshops and community events. The Riverwalk Park Inn's new ownership demonstrates how thoughtful renovation can honor a property's legacy while embracing innovation.

These stories highlight a common thread in our region's most successful enterprises – they understand that business is fundamentally about relationships. Whether it's Serve Wenatchee creating shopping experiences that preserve dignity, Joaquin Granados maintaining connections with longtime customers who travel from as far as Omak, or Alpenglö's owners creating gathering spaces for shared learning, these businesses recognize that genuine human connection creates lasting value.

As we navigate economic uncertainties, these examples remind us that North Central Washington's business strength lies in our ability to serve authentic needs while adapting to changing circumstances. The businesses that survive and thrive will be those that, like Serve Wenatchee and Liliana's Boutique, combine clear mission with community connection, creating enterprises that nourish both the economy and the human spirit.

Terry Ward is the CEO of Ward Media and the publisher of the NCW News, Cashmere Valley Record, Lake Chelan Mirror, The Leavenworth Echo, Quad City Herald, and the Wenatchee Business Journal. He can be reached at terry@ward.media.