SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY, CA—The County of San Bernardino Economic Development Agency has been awarded the 2014 Achievement Award in the category of Community/Economic Development by the National Association of Counties (NACo). The award recognizes the agency for its State of the County Event.

All told, the County of San Bernardino received 31 Achievement Awards from NACo this year for its innovative programs and services, including top honors for the Countywide Vision as well as the State of the County event, which promotes the Vision.

NACo is the only national organization that represents county governments in the United States. NACo started an annual Achievement Award Program in 1970 to recognize innovative county government programs. Awards are given in 21 different categories including children and youth, criminal justice, county administration, environmental protection, information technology, health, and many more.

The State of the County is an annual event produced by the County of San Bernardino.  Each year, more than 1,000 business professionals, community leaders, and government officials attend the State of the County. The event is designed to provide information to attendees about the ways in which the County, residents, businesses and agencies bring innovation and resources together to further the Countywide Vision.

An important aspect of the event is the opportunity to network with business leaders, community agencies, stakeholders, investors and industry peers as well as hear directly from County leadership on how collaboration, transparency and a commitment to economic opportunity creates opportunities for all invested in the County to build a better future together.

“Congratulations to everyone involved who developed this innovative program. Your hard work will yield positive results for San Bernardino County,” said Yael Lazarus, project coordinator, County Solutions and Innovation Department, NACo.

According to Kelly Reenders, economic development agency administrator, County of San Bernardino, the event has evolved into an important tool in creating stronger relationships with the business community and helping to communicate the valued aspects of the partnerships that are created with local business and community leaders.

“We appreciate the recognition as it underscores the positive work being done in the County to encourage greater economic opportunity,” Reenders added.