Ashland Train Day First Responders Fueled by Wawa

As the sun rises on April 27 in Downtown Ashland, over 200 Ashland Train Day volunteers and first responders will eagerly stream in, ready to keep the festivities fun and free. As The Official Sponsor of the Volunteer & First Responder Headquarters, Wawa works to provide volunteers to ensure Train Day guests stay safe with meals and drinks while bringing “Goose Pride” and fun to guests.

Wawa at Ashland Train Day in Ashland, Virginia

With a hearty spread of meals and drinks, Ashland's Wawa ensures that the whole team is well-fed and energized throughout the day. The Wawa store on England Street is your all-day, everyday stop for freshly prepared beverages, coffee, fuel services, and surcharge-free ATMs at the entrance to Downtown Ashland. 

With the help of their customers, Wawa is able to provide annual support to seven National Partners, including the American Red Cross, Check-Out Hunger, Children’s Miracle Network, JDRF, LLS, Special Olympics, and USO and thousands of local charity partners.

Wawa is committed to the Ashland community, their guiding principles are focused on fulfilling lives, while integrating their six core values (do things right, do the right thing, value people, embrace change, a passion for winning and delighting customers). They allow those values to drive the way their associates interact with customers on a daily basis, while creating a unique experience for each of their customers every day! 

As you embark on your Ashland Train Day adventure, we encourage event attendees to stop by the Wawa booth to say hello to their associates who are full of “Goose Pride,” and onsite giving guests a chance to Wawa swag and food and beverage coupons from their prize wheel!

Ride the Randolph-Macon College Trolley to Train Day

20,000 guests from all over the world travel to Ashland Train Day each year. This year, attendees can look forward to extra fun thanks to Randolph-Macon College's generous sponsorship of the parking shuttle service.

Located in the heart of Ashland, Randolph-Macon College (RMC) is an integral part of the town's vibrant community. With its sprawling 125-acre campus nestled alongside the railroad tracks, RMC stands as a beacon of education and engagement.

As a private, coeducational liberal arts and sciences college, RMC is committed to fostering a sense of inclusivity. That commitment extends beyond the campus borders and into the wider community, as evidenced by their support of Ashland Train Day.

At this year's event, RMC is providing a parking shuttle that will safely transport passengers from the western parking lot at First Baptist Church Ashland (800 Thompson Street) into downtown. Plus, you’ll see our dedicated cleanup volunteers scooting around the event on an RMC golf cart.

Beyond its support of Ashland Train Day, Randolph-Macon College enriches the community through a wide range of events and activities. From sports and art exhibits to lectures and performances, R-MC offers something for everyone–often free and open to the public.

As Ashland gears up for Train Day, Randolph-Macon College invites you to hop on the parking shuttle into town. Join us in celebrating the spirit of community that defines Ashland Train Day, thanks to the generosity of RMC.

Your Path Counseling Center Drives Ashland Train Day’s Free Kiddie Train Rides

All aboard! Your Path Counseling Center is proudly sponsoring a free kiddie train ride at Ashland Train Day on April 27th! Ederis Martinez-Cunion, the visionary behind Your Path, shares how this sponsorship aligns with their mission of promoting mental health and well-being in the community.

"At Your Path, we strongly believe in the power that play and laughter have in healing, specifically when it comes to mental health," Ederis explains. "So, the opportunity to sponsor the kiddie train really aligns with what we are all about."

Your Path Counseling Center is a private practice located in Ashland, VA, dedicated to helping individuals achieve their mental health and life goals through a collaborative approach to therapy. With a team of diverse therapists offering a wide range of specialties, Your Path emphasizes creating a safe, welcoming, and affirming environment for every client.

As families embark on the kiddie train ride sponsored by Your Path Counseling Center, they're not just enjoying a fun activity; they're also experiencing a moment of joy and relaxation that can positively impact their mental well-being. The laughter of children and the smiles of parents on the train mirrors the essence of Your Path's mission – promoting healing through play, creativity, connection, and community.

"I hope that people have a fun-filled day while learning more about all the great businesses and services available here in Ashland–and learning more about trains, of course!" Ederis shares. 

With a free kiddie train ride inviting families to explore the festivities, Ashland Train Day promises to be an event filled with laughter, connection, and a sense of community. Don't miss your chance to join Your Path Counseling Center at Ashland Train Day on April 27th and ride toward wellness and delight!

Free Workshops Set Local Businesses Up for Success

Running a successful small business requires more than just a good idea and hard work. It demands a strategic approach, savvy marketing, and sound financial management. To help entrepreneurs thrive, a series of free workshops covering eight essential elements for success is being offered until July. Let’s delve into what these elements are and how these workshops can benefit small business owners.

These workshops, led by industry experts, offer invaluable insights and practical tips for small business owners. From crafting a compelling brand strategy to understanding financial metrics and improving workforce management, each session covers essential topics designed to empower entrepreneurs. 

Free workshops for entrepreneurs and local organizations in Ashland, Virginia

Dorian Cunion of Your Path Coaching & Consulting presenting during free Business Innovation Workshops at The Gathering Place in Ashland, Virginia.

Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, these workshops provide actionable advice tailored to your needs. Registration is open for all eight workshops, and they're held bi-weekly at The Gathering Place. Additionally, recordings of the sessions will be available online for those unable to attend in person.

Moreover, businesses have the opportunity to sponsor these workshops, gaining exposure to a diverse audience of local business owners while supporting the community. If you're interested in becoming a sponsor, details are available on the workshop website.

Don't miss out on this chance to elevate your small business to new heights. Register today and take the first step towards success!

RCI Builders Constructs Memories in Touch-a-Truck at Ashland Train Day

RCI Builders proudly announces its sponsorship of Ashland Train Day's interactive Touch-a-Truck feature. Led by Vice President/Co-Owner Patrick Ashley and President/Co-Owner Todd Rogers, RCI Builders is about laying more than foundations for new homes; it's about laying down foundations of support and connection within the Ashland community.

RCI Builders Touch a Truck at Ashland Train Day in Ashland Virginia

RCI Builders' sponsorship of Touch-a-Truck at Ashland Train Day not only showcases heavy equipment and construction vehicles—it fosters a sense of wonder and curiosity among children and families. Patrick Ashley emphasizes, "Gear heads of all ages come together to explore heavy equipment, fire trucks, ambulances, dump trucks, and tractors. I like seeing kids and adults alike enjoy the hands-on experience with the massive machinery on display." 

But RCI Builders' commitment to the community goes beyond this thrilling sponsorship. It's deeply ingrained in their philosophy, as Todd Rogers articulates, "We believe in the power of community, in the importance of giving back, and in nurturing connections that last a lifetime." From sponsoring food servings with Moments of Hope Outreach to funding school ground improvements and supporting various local organizations like Hanover Young Life, RCI Builders is dedicated to enriching the lives of those around them.

RCI Builders Touch a Truck at Ashland Train Day in Ashland Virginia

Moreover, RCI takes immense pride in its achievements in the realm of innovative home designs. Rogers highlights their latest creations, including the Hayden Lee floor plan, designed to cater to modern buyers seeking flexibility and personalization, and the James and Aliya-Grace floor plans, offering affordable options for first-time homebuyers. These designs, like well-laid tracks, guide buyers toward their dream homes with precision and style.

As Ashland Train Day draws near on April 27, RCI Builders extends a warm invitation to all to join in the festivities. Make sure to visit the trucks on display, where gearheads of all ages will get a hands-on experience with their favorite vehicles. All aboard for a day of fun, laughter, and community camaraderie—next stop, Ashland Train Day!