Scot and Doug Congress of Congress Jewelers, Bonita Springs, Fla., recently donated $210,000 to the Lee and Collier County Habitat for Humanity charities. The funds are being used to construct new homes for six low-income families in those counties. The money was raised during the fall anniversary celebration of the company’s Bonita Springs stores, through live and silent auctions as well as a special state sales tax rebate program. The firm also operates stores in Key West and Sanibel Island, Fla.

The Bonita Springs Area Chamber of Commerce recently named Congress Jewelers the Small Business of the Year for 2002. The award recognizes a small business that meets specific criteria and provides detailed information regarding the business’s history, challenges, growth, and community involvement. Congress received the award for its commitment to quality, customer service, employee growth, and community spirit.

In other news, the company has added a new function to its Web site that allows customers to design their own Sea Impressions bracelet. Customers can choose from a variety of metals, clasps, links, and decorative elements such as dolphins, turtles, crabs, starfish, sea urchins, and shells. According to the company, there are more than 46,000 possible combinations.