The 2025 Raise the Region Gala was an unforgettable evening celebrating the power of community and philanthropy in Northern Virginia. Whether you joined us in person or supported from afar, your engagement and dedication to this region are deeply appreciated.

This year, we honored Warren M. Thompson, President and Chairman of Thompson Hospitality, with the 2025 Community Leadership Award. Warren’s legacy of inclusive leadership and service continues to shape lives across our region.🎥 Watch the Tribute Video below.

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Together, we can Make More Possible for Northern Virginia — building a community that works for everyone.

Mr. Thompson, President and Chairman of Thompson Hospitality, is the 2025 recipient of the Community Leadership Award from the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia. In addition to being one of the 10 largest food service and facilities management companies in the U.S. Thompson Hospitality owns and operates a portfolio of more than 65 restaurants, across some 17 different brands. Under his leadership, the company has grown from $34 million in 1992 to a billion-dollar enterprise, operating across 45 states and six countries in contract food service, college campus dining, janitorial & facilities management as well as 65 restaurants & hotels concentrated in the DMV and South Florida regions.

Warren’s impact extends far beyond business. Through long-standing support for HBCUs, active civic leadership, and a focus on elevating underserved communities, he exemplifies the spirit of community philanthropy. His work has strengthened lives and institutions throughout Northern Virginia, and we are proud to celebrate his lasting legacy of service.

Linda Carr’s giving through the Community Foundation supported Second Story, helping youth and families in crisis. This is compassion turned into impact.

Marc Wishkoff partners with the Community Foundation to help clients give with impact. His support for Serving Together shows how purpose-driven philanthropy helps military families thrive.

Through her fund at CFNOVA, Beatriz McNelly supports access to jobs and education. Her story reflects the impact of partners like Year Up in creating opportunity across our region.

The Community Foundation for Northern Virginia advances equity through philanthropy and community leadership to build a region that works for everyone. Since 1978, we’ve connected donors with causes they care about, provided data-driven insights to inform lasting impact, and partnered with nonprofits, businesses, foundations, and government to drive meaningful change. We proudly serve Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William Counties, and the Cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas, and Manassas Park. www.cfnova.org | @cfnova

Questions? Contact us at 703-879-7640 or info@cfnova.org.

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