The goal is to serve partners
The Cookeville-based Upper Cumberland Development District (UCDD), which provides regional planning and assistance to the 14-county Upper Cumberland region to promote economic growth and community enhancement, has recently been recognized with a 2025 Aliceann Wohlbruck Impact Award (AWIA) from the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) for its transitional homes for men and women.
The AWIA is presented in memory of Aliceann Wohlbruck, who was NADO’s first Executive Director and “a lifelong advocate for regional solutions and rural economic development,” according to the UCDD.
“The Impact Awards are an annual reminder of the creativity and commitment that regional development organizations bring to their communities,” said 2024-2025 NADO President Rick Hunsaker. “This year’s awardees show how local and regional partnerships, driven by vision and collaboration, can lead to lasting positive change across our country. I am incredibly proud of our team for providing a safe home for those committed to recovery.”
The NADO Impact Awards, which is presented annually, honor regional development organizations.
“NADO is a Washington, DC-based membership association of regional development organizations that promotes programs and policies that strengthen local governments, communities and economies,” according to the release.
The goal, according to the organization, is to serve partners by “strengthening communities, building regional resilience and enhancing local economies through innovative approaches to economic and community development.”
“We’re committed to helping individuals achieve self-sufficiency and grateful for the partnerships that make it all possible,” according to Mark Farley, UCDD and UCHRA Executive Director.
This year’s winners included 90 projects led by 79 organizations across 24 states. These award-winning efforts were recognized during NADO’s 2025 Annual Training Conference, held this past October in Salt Lake City, Utah.
All selected projects are featured in an interactive StoryMap that showcases summaries, images and key partners. The map is available at www.nado.org/2025impactawards/.
Photo provided.
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