WEST VALLEY — The West Valley Chamber of Commerce recently presented two awards at the West Valley Central School’s Academic Awards & Scholarship Banquet.

Annually, the chamber provides a $250 Community Service Award for a senior who demonstrates leadership in supporting their community through volunteerism.

“One of the Chamber’s roles is to help foster growth and development, and investing in our youth is one of the best ways to accomplish that initiative,” said Joseph Pillittere, Board President and CHBWV employee at the West Valley Demonstration Project. “By helping our youth succeed, we all grow together in creating a more sustainable future for our community.”

The second award, the Grover H. Riefler Scholarship Fund, provides a $500 scholarship to a senior entering a trade, vocational school or obtaining a CDL.

The Riefler Scholarship Fund was created in February 2025 at a Chamber Board of Directors meeting in honor of Grover Riefler, a businessman and dedicated member of the community who helped others succeed by providing guidance, encouragement, and a mentoring spirit.

“It was bittersweet to provide this award tonight,” said Laurel Riefler-Bond, Grover’s daughter and Chamber Secretary. “I know my father would be happy to see the impact he had on the community. Now, he is impacting the lives of our future community members and leaders.”

Winners of the scholarships will be announced at the Class of 2025 graduation ceremony.

If you are interested in learning more about the West Valley Chamber of Commerce or would like to join, contact Joseph Pillittere at joseph.pillittere@chbwv.com or call (716) 942-4996.