In 2009 the Rotary Club of Evergreen awarded its first annual ‘Ethics in Business Award’. Each year since, Rotary Club members have nominated businesses and business professionals for the award that they believe comply with Rotary International’s guiding principles – as defined by the Four-way Test:
Of the things we think, say or do:
1. Is it the truth?
2. Is it fair to all concerned?
3. Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
4. Will it be beneficial to all concerned?
Jeff and Bev Sprout at Award Presentation
This year's nominees were:
- Anderson Insurance Agency, Bruce Anderson
- Drive Smart
- Evergreen Dental Group, Jeff and Bev Sprout
- Evergreen Swims, Courtney McLaurin
- Evergreen Vision Clinic, Dr. Daniel Hock
- Hearthfire Books, Kappy Kling
- Linda Kirkpatrick
- Star Quest Group, Tom Athenour
Evergreen Dental Group’s owners, Jeff and Bev Sprout, have been in Evergreen for 21 years - since they graduated from CU school of dentistry in 1997. Their business has focused on optimizing everything; from the number of patients the practice can see, to the patients’ experience, to the number of jobs they could create, to the amount of money they could give back to the community. Evergreen Dental Group currently employs forty staff and has five dentists - some employees have been with the practice for over twenty years. The practice boasts the latest in dental technology.
Bev and Jeff almost always say ‘yes’ when they are asked to support community schools, fundraising events and non-profit organizations. In addition to the regular pro bono work that they undertake throughout the year, Evergreen Dental Group also hosts an annual ‘free dental day’ when anyone in need can get dental care for free.
On winning the award, Bev Sprout commented: “In a smaller practice ethics are easier to keep tabs on, but as we grew, we learned that creating a business with a culture of ethics, one that reflects who Jeff and I are and our practice philosophy was more challenging. We have learned many valuable lessons about how to create that environment and feel like we have a team that reflects our philosophy of kindness, honesty and going the extra mile in all we do! With the success of the practice came a shift in focus for Jeff and me. The Evergreen and surrounding communities have been such a support to our business; integral to the growth we experienced, and we felt a tremendous desire to give back.
This award is about ethics. It is the most meaningful distinction we could ever receive. We work hard to maintain a business built on a foundation of ethics, but we live in a world that often assumes that a successful, growing business is built on unethical tactics and greed. Scrutiny will always exist, but we will continue to do what we do guided by our faith, morals and values, and striving to impact others, and our community in a positive, fair and beneficial way.”
The award comes with a $500 prize to donate to the charity of their choice.
Website: evergreendentalgroup.com