Our Friendsgiving Story

Buena Vista Police Chief Wayne Handley also praised the event. “The Buena Vista Police Department is always proud to stand with our community partners. Being able to participate in this year’s FriendsGiving event allowed us an opportunity to meet with citizens in a nonenforcement manner, and continue strengthening our ties to the community. The importance of building social capital between police departments and communities is a vital function of public safety, and we were happy to participate.”

Rockbridge County Sheriff Tony McFaddin, whose officers volunteered at the event. “The community event was truly exceptional. Our first responders were privileged to work alongside these three exceptional organizations to provide a quality meal and meaningful fellowship,” he said.

“Maybe a little philosophical or sappy, but I think if we work at making our little community “all right” it positively overshadows most of the other chaos going on the world. I believe events like the one you put on only reinforces the fact that our community is indeed “all right “. Or at least it works for me. Thanks again.” - Mike O.

“Mike, thank you so much! Sentiment like yours is the reason I look to make Rockbridge FriendsGiving an annual tradition; pencil it in for xx November 2026.” Kathy Larlee, Feed the Need Foundation dba Rockbridge FriendsGiving