Berwyn Development Corporation awards celebrate the small businesses and community organizations that help our community thrive. These honors recognize those who show up, give back, and make a meaningful difference through service, creativity, and a genuine commitment to others.
From inspiring entrepreneurs to dedicated community partners, each award shines a light on the people and organizations that bring energy, connection, and care to everything they do. Their work strengthens our neighborhoods and reflects the very best of who we are.
We’re proud to celebrate these stories—and we invite you to be part of it. Nominations for the 2027 BDC Awards will open this November, and we look forward to recognizing even more outstanding leaders in our community.
Berwyn Non-Profit of the year Award
Youth Crossroads Named Berwyn’s 2026 Non-Profit of the Year
Berwyn, Illinois — The Berwyn Development Corporation (BDC) is proud to recognize Youth Crossroads as the recipient of the 2026 Non-Profit of the Year Award, honoring the organization’s longstanding commitment to supporting youth, strengthening families, and enriching the Berwyn community.
Founded in 1971, Youth Crossroads has served tens of thousands of young people and families in Berwyn, Cicero, Stickney, and surrounding communities. Through partnerships with more than 100 community organizations, Youth Crossroads has built a trusted and comprehensive network of support designed to respond to the complex challenges facing today’s youth and families.
Press Release
Best New Addition to Berwyn Award
Ofrenda Cantina y Cocina Named Best New Addition to Berwyn
The Berwyn Development Corporation (BDC) is proud to announce Ofrenda Cantina y Cocina as the recipient of the Best New Addition to Berwyn Award, recognizing a business that has quickly made a meaningful impact on the city’s growing and dynamic business community.
Ofrenda Cantina y Cocina is the culmination of a decade-long journey rooted in family, perseverance, and a deep connection to Berwyn. Brothers Ernesto and Fernando Torres learned about the restaurant business from their parents, whose experience spans nearly 50 years, 18 of them right here in Berwyn. What began as food truck serving festivals, breweries, and private events has now grown into a vibrant brick-and-mortar restaurant and bar, made possible through the collective investment and support of family members; Jose Torres (father) and Lalo Alanis (brother-in-law) and long-time family friend Martin Navarro and his family.
Press Release
Charles E. Piper Award Â
Michelle Fernandez 2026 Charles E. Piper Award Recipient for Outstanding Berwynner
Berwyn, Illinois — The Berwyn Development Corporation (BDC) is proud to announce Michelle Fernandez, owner of Media Noche Café, as the 2026 recipient of the Charles E. Piper Award for Outstanding Berwynner. The award honors individuals whose business leadership and community contributions have made a meaningful and lasting impact on the economic vitality and spirit of Berwyn.
Born and raised in Chicago, Michelle Fernandez is a Mexican American Latina whose entrepreneurial journey is deeply rooted in family, culture, and community. Encouraged to open Media Noche Café in 2020, Michelle learned the art of Cuban seasoning and cuisine from her husband’s grandfather, a Havana native who later opened his own restaurant in Elmwood Park, where Michelle once worked as a waitress.
Press Release
George W. Ashby Award for Business Excellence
La Parra Named 2026 George W. Ashby Award Recipient for Business Excellence
Berwyn, Illinois — The Berwyn Development Corporation (BDC) is proud to announce La Parra as the 2026 recipient of the George W. Ashby Award for Business Excellence, an annual honor recognizing a Berwyn-based business that exemplifies professionalism, quality, and a deep commitment to the local community.
La Parra has become a beloved part of Berwyn’s vibrant business landscape, offering homemade pastas, tapas, and thoughtfully crafted cocktails in a warm, welcoming setting. With its Mediterranean-inspired menu, full bar, and both dine-in and carryout options, La Parra reflects the creativity, care, and entrepreneurial spirit that define Berwyn’s diverse and close-knit business community.
Press Release