Ashland Dance Academy’s flash mob at Ashland Halloween, 2024.
The inaugural Heart of Hanover Awards is calling on the community to recognize the very best of Hanover County—and Downtown Ashland Association is ready to take center stage.
With nominations now open for Nonprofit of the Year, it’s time to rally the Center of the Universe and shine a spotlight on the small-town powerhouse that keeps Ashland’s heart beating and its tracks buzzing. From boosting business visibility to drawing in thousands of visitors for beloved events, Downtown Ashland Association (DAA) has spent the past year proving that local impact can go the distance.
Under the leadership of Director of Operations Louise “Lou” Keeton and Executive Director Antonio “Coach” Miller, Downtown Ashland Association has transformed community engagement from a goal into a movement. Whether it’s placing porta potties or pulling off powerhouse campaigns, Lou and Coach work hand-in-hand (and often hand-on-wheelbarrow) to make downtown Ashland a thriving, welcoming destination.
Here’s why Downtown Ashland Association deserves your nomination:
Randolph-Macon College performing at Light Up the Tracks Celebration
Dramatic growth in reach and engagement: DAA’s marketing magic brought in over 9 million media impressions, grew digital reach by 700%, and increased website traffic by 302,000 visitors.
Strong financial stewardship: Uses monetary and in-kind donations to support events, marketing, and business programs.
Events that stop the train (literally): Ashland Train Day and Light Up the Tracks have drawn hundreds of thousands of visitors and made downtown a must-visit destination.
Original initiatives that spark joy: From the Ashland Song Contest to immersive historical tours, Downtown Ashland Association has given locals and visitors more reasons to fall in love with Ashland.
National recognition: Ashland was named the #1 community in Virginia for increasing visitation, and Downtown Ashland Association received near-perfect marks as a nationally accredited Main Street America nonprofit.
“Coach” Antonio Miller speaking at the Center Street Pitch Competition
It’s not just about events or numbers—it’s about community. Downtown Ashland Association is powered by artists and entrepreneurs, parents and public servants, all united in a shared mission: to harness the power of community to build a stronger future for everyone.
Nominate Downtown Ashland Association for Nonprofit of the Year today and help them keep making tracks toward an even brighter tomorrow.
🛤 Nominations are open from April 14 to May 3, 2025.
🗳 Voting will run May 5 to May 18, 2025.
🎉 Winners will be announced June 11, 2025.
🔗 Submit your nomination at go.richmond.com/heartofhanover
Let’s keep Ashland’s heart on the map—and its spirit on the rails.