Plans are underway for the 2025 Special Places Celebration! This year’s event will be held on Thursday, October 9 at the Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences of West Virginia in Charleston and will feature a delicious farm-to-table dinner, specialty cocktails, and a live band. The West Virginia Land Trust is thrilled to announce the 2025 Conservation Heroes are Brad and Alys Smith.
In November of 2020, the Smiths donated $25 million dollars to West Virginia University to support groundbreaking new programs that improve the state’s economy, establish first-rate recreational infrastructure, and improve access to opportunities to explore and learn in nature. Through WVU’s Brad and Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative (OEDC), the couple offers startup funding to establish a new remote workers program to help individuals and young families thrive.
The OEDC helps inspire education through initiatives in experiential learning in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) to teach young minds the skills needed to contribute and compete in a global economy. To foster a sense of pride for the region, the OEDC also welcomes people already participating in today’s 21st century workforce to relocate to West Virginia and call the state their new home. Among Appalachia’s most awe-inspiring mountains, white water rafting, and winter sports, Brad and Alys believe individuals and families should have the opportunity to build the foundation for the next chapters in their lives.
Through the OEDC and the Smiths’ philanthropic organization, the Wing 2 Wing Foundation, the couple strive to continue improving the economic development and entrepreneurial opportunities in Appalachia while preserving and restoring West Virginia’s natural environments. The Foundation collaborates with individuals and companies devoted to making the planet’s wellbeing a priority while delivering breakthrough results for local economies.
The Special Places Celebration is the West Virginia Land Trust’s annual fundraiser which raises necessary funds for our organization. Thanks to support from many businesses and individuals who donate, sponsor, volunteer, and love the outdoors, WVLT has enhanced communities statewide by creating outdoor recreation access, ensuring clean drinking water supplies, preserving working family farms, and protecting open spaces, scenic views, historic sites, and more.
Event tickets are $125 per person or $200 per couple and must be purchased online by October 1. Registration is required by visiting www.wvspecialplaces.org or calling (304) 346-7788.
