At an awards luncheon held October 18^th at Shenandoah Crossing Resort, the Louisa County Chamber of Commerce recognized a wide range of volunteer organizations, partners and sponsors, presenting “best of the best” Impact awards in two categories: best non-profit organization and “best Impact program.”  In addition, the chamber recognized a number of partner individuals and organizations helping in its work.

While the awards went to selected winners, it was undeniable that there were no losers among the nominees, or in the in the room for that matter.  Indeed, every organization and individual on the nomination roster or in attendance has distinguished itself in helping those in need across the county and region.  Although chambers, including Louisa County, are most widely known for their support of business, the Louisa chamber’s Impact programs are an important supporter of volunteer efforts in its sphere of influence.

Executive Director and emcee, Tracy Hale Clark gaveled the meeting to order at noon, and after a benediction by Paster Matt Close of the Point church in Louisa, the group lined up for a buffet luncheon provided by host Shenandoah Crossing Resort.

After lunch, Clark introduced the featured speaker, Rappahannock Electric Co-op Managing Director Casey Hollins who provided a valuable background on the services, commitment and rewards of volunteer service, including a synopsis of her own volunteer background, beginning when she was just eight years old and active ever since.

After lunch, Clark began the day’s primary activities, the recognition and award of the nominees and award winners in two major categories; Impact Program of the year and Non-profit of the Year.  In addition, the program recognized the twelve individuals and organizations inducted into the Community Partner Honor Roll.  Clark welcomed the inductees, saying ““We are incredibly proud of this year’s honorees and the transformative work they’re doing. These awards highlight the extraordinary efforts of those who are making a meaningful difference in our community, and we are thrilled to celebrate their selfless service.

Each major award category had three finalists, nominated by a chamber member:

For Impact Program of the Year, nominees were: 

• ConnorStrong Foundation – Sources of Strength
• Giving Words Auto Care
• Foundation for Lake Anna Emergency Services – Brick Chicks 

Giving Words Auto Care founder Eddie Brown accepted the award, saying “This award is a testament to the generosity of our donors, partners, and sponsors, as well as the resilience of the single mothers and children we serve” and “We are especially grateful to the Louisa County Chamber of Commerce for their invaluable guidance and support, which has been instrumental in our growth and success.”

For Non-profit of the Year, nominees were:

• Giving Words Auto Care
• Fluvanna/Louisa Housing Foundation
• Louisa County CSA (Children’s Services Act )

With the award going to Louisa County CSA, established by law in 1993 as a collaborative, family-centered, and community-based system designed to meet the complex needs of vulnerable children delivers a collaborative, family-centered, and community-based system designed to meet the complex needs of vulnerable children.

Accepting the award for CSA, Whitney Deane underscored the organization’s enduring commitment to the health and well-being of Louisa County children finding themselves in challenging circumstances.

The program wrapped up near its scheduled time of 1:30pm, an obsession for tight scheduling admitted by emcee Hale Clark, after which the attendees mixed and mingled greeting existing friends and meeting new ones.  If there was an overall theme to the event, it was that giving of one’s time and effort to support those who need it is a valuable and rewarding activity well worth the cost.

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