We’re proud to share the 2026 Heroes Project, our third annual celebration of the unsung individuals making a powerful impact across Virginia’s Blue Ridge.
Launched during our centennial year in 2024, the Heroes Project honors those who go above and beyond to strengthen our community every day—often without recognition.
Congratulations to this year’s Heroes, and thank you to everyone who took the time to nominate someone making a difference. Your nominations help shine a light on the people who make our region stronger.
Follow along as we continue to introduce this year’s Heroes and take a moment to read their stories (linked below) to see what their nominators had to say about the difference they’re making.
We invite you to join us at Celebrate United on June 4th at Hotel Roanoke as we honor them together. Save your seat here.
Click the category below to see this year’s heroes:
Health | Education | Financial Security | Volunteerism | Advocacy | Leadership
Tap or click a Hero below to read what their nominators had say about them.
2026 Health Heroes:
2026 Leadership Heroes:
2026 Advocacy Heroes:
2026 Financial Security Heroes:
2026 Education Heroes:
2026 Volunteerism Heroes:
Guardian of
Comfort Hero
Thank you to our sponsors:
