United Way 2025 Starfish Awards

Thu Nov 13 2025 at 11:30 am to 01:00 pm UTC-05:00

301 Broadway Avenue, Oak Ridge, TN, United States, Tennessee 37830 | Oak Ridge

United Way of Anderson County (UWAC)
Publisher/HostUnited Way of Anderson County (UWAC)
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🌊 The 14th Annual Starfish Awards 🌊
Each year, the Starfish Awards remind us that even the smallest act of kindness can make a world of difference. Based on the beloved Starfish parable, this event celebrates 13 years of extraordinary community heroes who have come before and one who will be our 14th Starfish Award Winner. This is an incredible honor chosen by our community for these individual's remarkable impact throughout Anderson County.
We are proud to announce this year’s nominees:
⭐ Jim Dodson – Community Self-Sufficiency Advocate
Jim serves on the Board of Directors for ADFAC (Aid to Distressed Families of Anderson County) and has devoted years to building programs that help families gain stability and independence. His leadership and compassion directly strengthen our community’s ability to grow stronger together.
⭐ Bob Burseth – Community Supporter & Local Business Leader
As the owner of Bob’s Washboard Laundromat, Bob has gone above and beyond to make his business a cornerstone of support for those in need. From providing access to clean laundry to lending a helping hand whenever the community calls, Bob has shown how local business can truly change lives.
⭐ Judi Gray – Judi has been a driving force in empowering the next generation. Through her leadership with Project Period, she has ensured that local youth have access to the resources and confidence they need to thrive. She also serves as a mentor leader with Career Pathways, helping high-risk teens build strong, supportive relationships with trusted adults who guide them toward stability and success. Her compassion and commitment have touched countless lives, making her a true role model for service.
We’ll reveal which of these remarkable individuals will receive this year’s Starfish Award during the event! Being nominated for the Starfish Award is itself a reflection of each individual’s extraordinary impact; proof that their compassion, leadership, and service have already made waves throughout our community, and we hope you’ll join us to celebrate their impact and show your support for the difference-makers among us.
🌟 Sponsorships are still available! Each sponsorship includes a table with 4 seats and provides 2 scholarship tickets for our nonprofit partners, ensuring they can attend and be celebrated alongside our community, without cost to their organization. You will recieve table recognition and recognition business throughout the event.
Let’s gather to honor the ripple effect of service, compassion, and community. Because when one person chooses to make a difference...it matters. 💫
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301 Broadway Avenue, Oak Ridge, TN, United States, Tennessee 37830

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