Rockbridge Nourish Together, in partnership with Unity4Kids, Rockbridge Connect, and the Community Foundation for Rockbridge, Bath, and Alleghany, hosted the inaugural Easter Awakening Brunch on April 4 at the Buena Vista Fire Department. The event drew nearly 250 community members for a festive morning of food and fellowship.
The brunch featured a lineup of local culinary talent, with food provided by Blue Sky Bakery, CHEFS Catering, Chef David Faulds, Full Circle Catering, Kenny’s of Lexington, Pure Eats, RCHS Culinary Program, Sunrise BBQ, Sweet Treats Bakery, The Lexington Catering Company, and W&L Campus Kitchen . “The Easter Awakening Brunch was a beautiful reminder of what happens when a community truly shows up for one another,” said Tammy Reid, Unity4Kids executive director. “Seeing our neighbors gather — sharing a meal, sharing laughter, and sharing in the spirit of the season — filled our hearts. At Unity4Kids, we believe every child and family deserves to feel seen and celebrated, and events like this one make that belief tangible. We are so grateful to every partner, volunteer, and sponsor who made this morning possible.”
Food was served by community volunteers, including Sheriff Tony McFaddin and his team of deputies. Guests of all ages were delighted by a special appearance from the Easter Bunny, and attendees had the opportunity to participate in a drawing for an adult Easter basket. Music was provided by Christan City DJ.
“Serving our community is not just something we do — it’s who we are,” said Lori Turner, Community Foundation executive director. “The Easter Awakening Brunch brought that to life in the most joyful way. When I look around and see Sheriff McFaddin and his deputies’ serving plates alongside volunteers, caterers donating their time and talent, and families enjoying a morning of abundance together, I’m reminded of exactly why this work matters. Rockbridge is a community that takes care of its own, and this inaugural event is just the beginning.”
The event was made possible through the support of community sponsors, including 3WZ Radio, Bruce Gardner Insurance, Carilion Rockbridge Hospital, Charles Barger, CornerStone Bank, Joanne Robblee, Spencer Home Center, and Walmart of Lexington.
Organizers expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the success of this inaugural event and look forward to making the Easter Awakening Brunch a cherished annual tradition for the Rockbridge community.
The next major community gathering, the second annual Rockbridge Friendsgiving, is set for Nov. 19, at the Virginia Horse Center.
“We are already looking forward to Rockbridge Friendsgiving 2026 and would love to have our community join us — whether as a volunteer or a sponsor,” said Michelle Watkins, Rockbridge Connect & Nourish executive director. “Events like these are only possible because of the generous people who give their time and resources to lift up their neighbors. If you’d like to get involved, please reach out to us at rockbridgenourishtogether@ gmail. com. Together, we can make Friendsgiving another celebration to remember.”
Rockbridge Nourish Together is a collaborative partnership of community leaders serving the Buena Vista, Lexington and Rockbridge County, dedicated to addressing food insecurity and building community connections through partnership with local organizations and volunteers.
CHEF David Faulds, one of the many culinary volunteers, prepares fruit for the brunch.
