The Judeo-Christian Outreach Center Oceanfront Preschool was one of the two winners of Adams Outdoor Advertising’s 2008 Small Business or Non-profit Organization of the Year contest.

By Sandra J. Pennecke
The Virginian-Pilot (Beacon) 5/10/2009

VIRGINIA BEACH

Two local nonprofit organizations have won a prize any business or organization would love to have.

Adams Outdoor Advertising awarded a free month of billboard advertising to Meals on Wheels Virginia Beach and the Judeo-Christian Outreach Center Oceanfront Preschool, the winners of its Small Business or Non-profit Organization of the Year contest.

Judges from the Central Business District Association, Virginia Beach Chamber of Commerce and the Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center chose the winners.

This is the first year for the contest, part of Adams Outdoor Advertising’s community relations program, which recognizes businesses or nonprofits that exhibit great social responsibility. Contest rules and regulations were posted on billboards and at www.adamsadvcares.com. Nominations were accepted through Jan. 15.

“We’re looking for businesses and nonprofits that have made their mark on Virginia Beach by going the extra mile to truly elevate the lives of those around them,” said Doug Lister, real es tate manager for Adams Outdoor Advertising.

The award winners received four weeks of free advertising on the Tri-Vision billboard, which, Lister said, amounts to about $1,200 between the cost of advertising and production.

The Judeo-Christian Outreach Center Oceanfront Preschool billboard is in place at 5605 Princess Anne Road in Norfolk, near the intersection of Northampton Boulevard and N. Military Highway.

The preschool, which provides year-round, free preschool for at-risk families, plans to use the artwork for future endeavors within the organization.

“This couldn’t have come at a better time. All of the nonprofits are struggling now,” said Ruth O’Lill, director of development at the preschool.

Meals on Wheels’ billboard will post at another location in the fall to coincide with its 35th anniversary.

“We don’t do any advertising – we can’t afford it,” said Vicki Rader, president of Meals on Wheels Virginia Beach. “Advertising dollars would take away from feeding someone.”

Started in 1974 by Rader’s father, Homer W. Cunningham, the program has more than 700 volunteers who deliver food to more than 100 people daily.

Lister said he is glad to be giving back to those helping others. “Small businesses and nonprofits are really struggling for donations and help right now. I feel that businesses serve the community best when they partner with them.”