FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: United Way of Southwest Virginia is shining a light on the best of Southwest Virginia and the New River Valley at the 2025 Impact Awards
Businesses, leaders, and residents from across Southwest Virginia and the New River Valley came together to celebrate the people and organizations that help our communities thrive.
Abingdon, VA (April 30, 2025) - A record-breaking crowd filled the Grand Hall at the Higher Education Center in Abingdon on Tuesday night, coming together to celebrate the very best of Southwest Virginia and the New River Valley at the 2025 Impact Awards celebration.
Hosted by the United Way of Southwest Virginia, the Impact Awards honor trailblazing individuals, organizations, and businesses that are making a profound difference in the community. This inspiring event shines a spotlight on leadership, volunteerism, and innovation in key areas like education, financial stability, and health. Each honoree represents a powerful force for change, dedication, and progress in the region.
This year’s event put a special focus on the Person of Distinction Award, which was proudly presented to Jennifer Smith of New River Community Action. A United States Navy veteran and a devoted public servant, Jennifer has spent years in the nonprofit sector, developing and implementing transformative community programs. Under her leadership, New River Community Action has made significant strides in emergency assistance, education, housing, and more—creating real, lasting impact for those in need.
The Unsung Hero Award was awarded to Tony Miller, a true example of selfless service. Tony’s journey with the United Way of Southwest Virginia began in the wake of Hurricane Helene, when he stepped up to offer his expertise in logistics and project management. Day after day, Tony played a crucial role in response and recovery efforts, never hesitating to show up for his community. His dedication led to the development of Trails to Recovery in Washington County, Virginia—helping countless individuals rebuild and regain stability.
Making its debut this year, the Student of the Year Award was presented to Washington County’s Abigail McCroskey. Abigail was recognized as an exceptional student leader, embodying the spirit of volunteerism, service, and commitment to her community. She was nominated for this award for her outstanding work in various community-service projects including the delivery of food bags for the No Child Left Unfed Program every week, demonstrating that the next generation of leaders is already making waves.
The 2025 Impact Awards was an unforgettable night of celebration, recognition, and inspiration—honoring the people who are shaping a stronger, brighter future for Southwest Virginia and the New River Valley.
Other honorees included:
Elite Partners- Ballad Health, Food City, Universal Fibers, Utility Trailer: Atkins and Utility Trailer: Glade Spring
Celebrity Bagging Fundraiser Award – Town of Chilhowie
Top Giver Award – Food City
Workplace Campaign of the Year – HHHunt
Agency Partner of the Year – Giles County Christian Mission Service
Community Spotlight – Pennington Gap Middle School
Media Partner of the Year – WJHL
“As we look ahead, one thing remains clear- United Way of Southwest Virginia is deeply committed to ensuring a high quality of life for all, stated United Way of Southwest Virginia’s Executive Director, Megan Parks. We will continue to listen, respond, and lead. We will continue to invest in innovative solutions that create real change. And, most importantly, we will continue to stand united—with all of you—because together, we can build a brighter, stronger Southwest Virginia for generations to come.”
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United Way of Southwest Virginia fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in Southwest Virginia because they are the building blocks for a good quality of life. United Way convenes cross-sector partners to make an impact on the most complex problems in our region. Through collaboration with government, businesses, nonprofits, and individuals, United Way innovates for positive, lasting social change. With a footprint that covers more than 20% of the state of Virginia, United Way of Southwest Virginias serve the counties of Bland, Buchanan, Carroll, Dickenson, Floyd, Giles, Grayson, Lee, Montgomery, Pulaski, Russell, Scott, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, Wise, and Wythe, and the cities of Bristol, Galax, Norton, and Radford.
