Louisa County Impact Awards Celebrate Local Nonprofits and Community Partners

Louisa, VA — The Louisa Forward Foundation and Louisa County Chamber of Commerce hosted the second annual Louisa County Impact Awards on Friday, October 18, 2024, celebrating the extraordinary contributions of local nonprofits, partners, and programs dedicated to strengthening the community. Held at Shenandoah Crossing Resort, the event honored the commitment, creativity, and tireless efforts of those making a lasting impact in Louisa County.

The Impact Awards celebrate the extraordinary contributions of individuals and organizations that have made a meaningful difference in the community. These awards honor those who exemplify giving back, exceptional volunteerism, and impactful contributions. It brings together community members and leaders for an inspiring celebration of the collective efforts that drive positive change and strengthen our community.

Giving Words Auto Care has been named the Impact Program of the Year for its transformative work supporting single mothers in Louisa County. The program provides critical vehicle repair services, vehicle donations, and automotive training, helping families gain reliable transportation, which in turn opens doors to career opportunities and greater independence. Through partnerships with local businesses and schools, Giving Words Auto Care has strengthened community connections and made a lasting impact on the lives of those it serves.

“We are honored to receive this recognition for our Auto Care Program,” states Eddie Brown, Founder of Giving Words. “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. Our mission is driven by the belief that everyone deserves reliable transportation and the opportunities it brings. 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."

Louisa County Children's Services Act (CSA) was selected as Nonprofit of the Year in recognition of its vital role in supporting at-risk youth and their families. As a cornerstone of the community, Louisa County CSA delivers a collaborative, family-centered, and community-based system designed to meet the complex needs of vulnerable children. Their mission aligns with the Commonwealth's goal of providing tailored services that foster resilience, stability, and long-term success. The program’s unwavering dedication to empowering at-risk youth has earned them this prestigious recognition.

The Community Partner Honor Roll recognizes key supporters who have made significant contributions to advancing nonprofit missions through financial support, volunteerism, or strategic partnerships. Their collaborations have extended the reach and impact of these organizations, fostering a stronger and more connected community.

2024 Inductees include:

· Board of Supervisors & Christian Goodwin, nominated by Louisa Clean

· Clark Equestrian Center, nominated by Beautiful Brokenness

· Cutalong at Lake Anna, nominated by Foundation for Lake Anna Emergency Services

· Duane Sergent, Divine Nature, nominated by Louisa Community Emergency Fund

· Giving Words, nominated by The Journey Home

· Louisa Rotary Club, nominated by Louisa County Public Schools

· Meg Ryan, nominated by Louisa Rotary Club

· Nancy Ritinski, nominated by Dolly Parton Imagination Library

· S&N Communications, nominated by Rappahannock Electric Cooperative

· Shenandoah Crossing Resort, nominated by Louisa Forward Foundation

· The Point, nominated by Giving Words

· Vicki Southall, nominated by Child Health Partnership

Tracy Hale Clark, Executive Director of the Louisa County Chamber of Commerce and Louisa Forward Foundation, expressed her admiration for the winners: “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."

For more information about the Louisa County Impact Awards and the Louisa Forward Foundation, please visit LouisaForward.org.

About Louisa County Chamber of Commerce and Louisa Forward Foundation:

The Louisa County Chamber of Commerce and its 501c3 partner, the Louisa Forward Foundation, are committed to fostering economic growth and community development through strategic partnerships, leadership development programs, and initiatives that benefit the greater Louisa community

Contact: Tracy Hale Clark, executivedirector@louisachamber.org 540.967.0944

LouisaChamber.org | LouisaForward.org