Denise Tuszynski has watched a lot of businesses run by a lot of people. She nominated Pristine Pool & Spas for this honor because of what she says she’s never seen anywhere else: a company that gives people second chances, funds them to grow, and then celebrates when they leave to start something of their own.
Pristine Pool & Spas is a husband-and-wife operation in New Buffalo, founded by Glenn and Dawn Fadden after they relocated to the area in 1998. Glenn brought deep pool-building expertise. Dawn brought business and operations knowledge. Together they’ve built a 33-person company known for high-quality, designer-level pool construction and an equally high standard of care for the people who work there.
The Faddens mentor their staff — not just professionally, but personally. They’ve financially supported employees to pursue training and education. They’ve encouraged team members to seek counseling and other personal development resources. And when employees have grown enough to launch their own businesses, Glenn and Dawn have helped them do it. That kind of investment, Tuszynski says, speaks volumes about how the owners view their responsibility to the people around them.
The workplace reflects that philosophy at every level. Performance reviews are frequent. Professional development is built in. Staff appreciation dinners and bonuses are part of the rhythm. Health insurance and 401(k) planning aren’t just offered — the 401(k) is actively taught and encouraged.
The Faddens also open their home to team gatherings, and Tuszynski notes they’ve provided a safe space for people in difficult circumstances who had nowhere else to turn. The integrity behind the operation shows up in the customer reviews, too — some of the strongest in the region.
Not many small businesses, Tuszynski says, will give multiple chances to employees trying to prove themselves. The grace the Faddens extend has produced some of the most dedicated people on their team.
