At its heart, this honor celebrates the power of partnership—how Alexandria’s businesses and nonprofits unite to open doors of opportunity and hope.
Community Lodgings is proud to announce it has been named the 2025 Overall Business of the Year by The Chamber ALX’s Best in Business Awards.
This prestigious recognition celebrates businesses and organizations that make a lasting impact on the Alexandria community through excellence, innovation, and leadership. Community Lodgings, selected from a group of 51 outstanding nominees, was recognized for its commitment to lifting families from homelessness and instability to independence and self-sufficiency through Transitional Housing, Affordable Housing, Youth Education Programs, and by addressing food insecurity.
“We are beyond proud to be recognized as the 2025 Overall Business of the Year and deeply grateful for everyone who makes our mission possible — from our dedicated team and board members to the incredible partners, supporters, and community champions,” said Lynn Thomas, Executive Director of Community Lodgings. “This honor reaffirms what we witness every day: when the community comes together, we can break cycles of poverty and open doors to opportunity. It’s a remarkable achievement and meaningful moment for us, as it celebrates our impact in Alexandria and the incredible work we do to support the students and families we serve.”
For 38 years, Community Lodgings has worked to transform lives by providing housing and supportive services that empower residents to become self-sufficient. The organization’s holistic approach helps children and adults alike build the foundation for long-term stability and success through education, housing, supportive services, and resources that lead to independence.
The Best in Business Awards, hosted annually by The Chamber ALX, recognizes the organizations that drive Alexandria’s economic vitality and community well-being. Being named the Overall Business of the Year, a category historically dominated by for-profit companies, highlights the essential role nonprofits play in shaping a thriving local economy and community.
“The Chamber ALX is proud to name Community Lodgings as the 2025 Overall Business of the Year. While their mission to help families transition from homelessness to independence is truly inspiring, this award also honors their collaborative spirit in Alexandria, their charitable contributions beyond their core mission, and the strong positive culture they foster within their organization.” — Joe Haggerty, President & CEO, Alexandria Chamber of Commerce.
Community Lodgings extends heartfelt thanks to The Chamber ALX and the Best in Business Awards committee.
Congratulations to all of this year’s winners, including our community partners: Aptivate Educational & Psychological Solutions, Micro Business of the Year, and the Virginia Tech DC Area Launch Team, Business Leader of the Year.
