CareSouth has become the first not-for-profit organisation to win the 2016 Business of the Year at the Shoalhaven Business Awards. 

CareSouth CEO Deb Tozer accepted the prestigious award, along with Employer of Choice and Excellence in Community Service awards, on behalf of the organisation.

Ms Tozer said recognition as Shoalhaven’s Business of the Year highlights the professionalism, innovation and quality work the not-for-profit does in the community. 

“It acknowledges that working to help others is a valid and rewarding career choice, whether you are making a profit or not and it highlights that not-for-profits have to uphold the same robust financial standards as companies who answer to their shareholders,” Ms Tozer said.

“The better we are at managing that part of our business the more children and families we can help.”

The staff at CareSouth believe not-for-profits can no longer be considered a poor cousin in the Australian economy, contributing more than $55 billion and employing one million staff, with a further six million working as volunteers. Traditional economic measures often don't capture the incredible work undertaken by this sector.

Ms Tozer said the award is recognition of the importance of investing in the future of vulnerable children and young people who are supported by CareSouth. 

“I am so proud of the individual and collective achievements of CareSouth’s staff and their commitment to do the very best they can for those they support,” Ms Tozer said.

“It was an honour to accept these awards in recognition of CareSouth’s hard working, dedicated staff and carers.”