This week, the First Lady joined Governor Glenn Youngkin in presenting the 5th 2023 Spirit of Virginia Award to the Wildlife Foundation of Virginia (WFV). The organization’s mission is to preserve Virginia’s natural lands and great outdoors while strengthening the commitment of the Commonwealth to the future of outdoor recreation. It is through careful conservation efforts that generations of sportsmen continue to enjoy the same lands. The award showcased the First Lady and Governor’s shared appreciation of Virginia’s natural richness and beauty, acknowledging it as a blessing that should be guarded and enjoyed. The Wildlife Foundation of Virginia has not only helped conserve nearly 14,000 acres, it has spearheaded efforts to make the land accessible to Virginia’s Wounded Warriors, and all with mobility impairments, through the creation of wheelchair accessible blinds and ATV property transportation. The WFV has also connected nearly 69,000 youth with the outdoors through their grant program; encouraging a love and respect for the world God created for us. With a plethora of mental and physical health benefits, spending time outdoors is beneficial to everyone, and the presentation of the 5th Spirit of Virginia Award could not have come on a more perfect autumn day. To learn more about the Wildlife Foundation of Virginia, please visit their website. |