United Way of Southern Kentucky held its annual Live United Awards ceremony on Thursday at the Sloan Convention Center, where several different businesses and organizations were recognized for their contributions to United Way in 2023.

Debbie Hills, president and CEO of UWSK, said the awards celebrate these contributions.

“We’re here to celebrate the many successes that all of you in the room have achieved this year,” Hills said.

For the first time, UWSK presented two LIVE UNITED Awards, selected from four finalists.

Steve Thurmond, a member of UWSK’s Board of Directors and executive director of Franklin’s Chamber of Commerce, said the LIVE UNITED Award recognizes organizations that “exemplify” United Way’s objectives.

“They’ve advocated on behalf of United Way to improve lives through education, income, health and safety needs, and they’ve had exceptional volunteer participation,” Thurmond said.

One award was given to Bowling Green’s FORVIS office, with the other award going to the City of Bowling Green.

Bowling Green City Manager Jeff Meisel spoke about the organization’s efforts with United Way. Meisel said he feels “very blessed” to see all of the work the City of Bowling Green staff accomplishes.

“We live in one of the greatest communities in the United States,” Meisel said. “I really believe that.”

Ten organizations were recognized in the “Top 10 Campaigns” section of the ceremony for overall corporate and employee giving during 2023, with all 10 groups contributing to a total of $1.2 million.

At the top of the list was Logan Aluminum, which raised $483,000 last year.

Rachel Jackson was awarded the Shooting Star Award at the ceremony as well.

Jackson said she got into legal trouble over 10 years ago, but she was able to turn her life around through help from Kentucky Legal Aid.

“I have had so much love and support on my journey,” Jackson said. “Through the amazing work they do and their tireless efforts, I am able to finish my master’s degree this May and apply to the social work board without having to explain my past.”