Charleston, WV – Fourteen awards were handed out Monday at the Charleston Area Alliance’s annual “We Love Our Community Awards” event at the University of Charleston Downtown Innovation Hub. Sponsored by Spilman Thomas & Battle, with support from Family Care Health Centers, Pickering Associates and ZMM Architects & Engineers, these awards honor some of the people, projects, programs and organizations that make the Kanawha Valley community stronger and brighter.
“The annual We Love Our Community Awards is our chance to shine the spotlight on the people and places that make significant contributions to the community,” said Susie Salisbury, the Alliance’s Vice President for Community Development. “The artists, small business owners, visionaries and volunteers that we honor here today give of their time, talents, and dedication – and inspire us all to love our community.”
The following individuals, organizations and programs were recognized and presented with customized art by local artist Megan Dailey.
Kanawha Heritage Award: Base Camp Printing
Best Development Award: CAMC Center for Learning and Research
Best Redevelopment Award:
· Cox Morton Building, 184 Summers Street
· University of Charleston Downtown Innovation HUB
Jeff Miller Sustainable Development Award: Charleston, WV Amtrak Station
Community Celebration Award: Charleston Dirty Birds Light the Night
Arts to the Max Award – Organization: FestivALL 20th Anniversary
Arts to the Max Award – Individual: John Inghram
James R. Thomas Outstanding Volunteer Award: Adam Harris
Comeback Kid: Herbert Hoover High School
Outstanding Preservation: Liberty Village
Do The Charleston Award: McGee Foundation West Side Collaborative
Servant Leader: Mayor Scott James, St. Albans, WV
Placemaking Award: Nitro Park Athletic Complex
Photo Courtesy: Jake Ruddle / RuddShots