CHARLESTON AREA ALLIANCE ANNOUNCES 2025 WE LOVE OUR COMMUNITY AWARD WINNERS

Wednesday, September 10, 2025

15 Awardees Honored at Annual Event

Charleston, W.Va. – Fifteen awards were handed out Tuesday at the Charleston Area Alliance’s annual “We Love Our Community Awards” event at the WVSU Downtown Center. Sponsored by Spilman Thomas & Battle, with support from MAP & Associates and 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.

Susie Salisbury, Senior Vice President for Community Development at the Alliance, emphasized the significance of the We Love Our Community Awards, calling it a moment to recognize the individuals and organizations that make a meaningful impact. “From artists and entrepreneurs to volunteers and changemakers, these honorees give generously of their time and talent, reminding us all what it means to truly love and support our community,” she said.

The following individuals, organizations and programs were recognized and presented with customized art by local artist Lynn Payne.

Do The Charleston Award: Rabbi Victor Urecki
Best Redevelopment Award: The Element Edge
Outstanding Preservation: WVSU Center
Community Collaborative: Keep your Faith Corporation
Kanawha Heritage Award: Folklore Music Exchange
Placemaking Award: Celebration Station
Jeff Miller Sustainable Development Award: Patriot Guardens
Sweet Success: Spring Hill Bakery
Arts to the Max Award – Individual: Kit Reed
Arts to the Max Award – Organization: Alban Arts Center
Servant Leader: Mayors Anne Cavalier, Smithers and Greg Ingram, Montgomer

Pictues to come:

James R. Thomas Outstanding Volunteer Award: Adam Krason

Outstanding Preservation: 1030 Lofts