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Nov. 13, 2020 Source: OBP news release St. Louis - During one of the most challenging years for communities nationwide in 2020, rural Americans have shown they are working hard to pivot, support and strengthen their towns and regions. After consideration of nominees, OBP awarded three individuals as winners of the 2020 Rural Spirit Awards. "In a year like no other, we are proud to recognize people who prioritize staying positive and focused on what's possible," said Rhonda Ries, president of OBP. "We're committed to the noble pursuit of possibility, and the Rural Spirit Awards are one way we can help inspire hope. Community support is more important than ever, and we are honored to celebrate people making a difference across America." The Rural Spirit Awards are part of OBP's Noble Pursuits initiative, an ongoing effort to give back to our communities and support others doing the same. In this third year of the one-of-a-kind rural recognition program, OBP opened nominations from the public in early fall, and recognized three outstanding rural American leaders as the winners in a virtual ceremony on Wednesday, Nov. 11: Community Service Award: Carol Graf - Waverly, Missouri - The founder of Rides Here LLC, Graf started her small business as a ride service for the elderly in the community during the week and for weekend events. When the COVID-19 pandemic affected Rides Here LLC, Graf shifted the business's structure from ride service to grocery delivery. Each week, Graf travels to Kansas City for a produce pickup and delivery in her community to ensure fresh, healthy food options are available to individuals in her area during the pandemic. Next Gen Award: Jack "Alex" White III - Luray, Virginia - Passionate about overcoming the obstacles facing rural communities, White is a strong advocate for rural areas, which led to his role on the Page County Economic Development Authority, making him the youngest government official in Virginia. Along with this achievement, White secured funds to form the Rural Leadership Initiative, a 501(c)3 nonprofit supporting top rural undergraduates as they pursue projects pertaining to rural areas. He was selected to intern at the White House, serve as a delegate position to the 2020 Democrat National Convention and be part of the National Rural Youth Assembly. Rural Advocacy Award: Carolyn Chrisman - Kirksville, Missouri - An advocate for northern Missouri, Chrisman works to highlight the region's strength and engage local partners in her roles as executive director of the Missouri Rural Enterprise and Innovation Center, center director for the Missouri Small Business Center in Northeast Missouri and executive director of the Kirksville Regional Economic Development, Inc. Her efforts include helping regional decision-makers understand how policy affects the local economy and hosting events for citizens to address state and federal leaders, as well as talent attraction for the region. Each of these honorees will receive $2,000 to donate to a nonprofit organization of their choice, with a donation made in their name. Please visit RuralSpiritAwards.com for more information. Tweet |
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