“The Freedom Fund” is proud to announce James River Reeling and Rafting as the November 2019, “Friend of Freedom” award winner.
“It’s one thing to listen to the stories of veteran family members, but a different story watching high school friends disappear overseas for months at a time hoping for a safe return,” explained Ashley Noble, owner of James River Reeling and Rafting of Scottsville. “This is the first year I will actually send one of my staff into Army service. He’s been with us since he was 14, and he has decided to continue his family tradition of being a helicopter mechanic.”
“’Reeling and Rafting is a family affair, and would not be what it is today without the founders, my parents Kevin & Geneva Denby who passed the family business on to us and taught me everything I know. The day to day would not be possible without the assistance of my husband, Devin, our two boys Maddox, 4 and Jackson, 1, and of course our trusty shop dog and first born, Wellington, the great dane.” What started as “a few boats around back” of the local Co-op in the late 80’s, has grown into the family-owned and operated livery that it is today. “Not only do we offer boat and tube rentals but we offer discount clean-up programs and participate in other environmental initiatives that help people give back while also enjoying what Mother Nature has to offer.”
A few years ago Ashley and her crew started “BBQ on the Bend”, an annual cook-off festival benefitting local charities. “Every year we end our season with a celebration. Staff, friends and their families would gather to eat, drink and be merry to celebrate the close of the season. It became a goal after a few years to turn this personal thanks party into something much more grand. Who doesn’t love good food, music, a great river back drop and giving to a good cause all the while? And BBQ on the Bend was born.” The Freedom Fund was the beneficiary of the 2019 event in September.
Reeling and Rafting offers 20% discounts on rentals and services for all active and retired military and police. “Anyone can throw some boats in the water but we offer a service that makes you part of the family while you’re here. This is the second generation of children to grow up in this building and as our Noblets run around just like my brother and I did as kids, I cannot begin to describe the amount of warm fuzzies that brings about. “
Each month, “The Freedom Fund” Board of Directors will chose a FOF award winner to be featured on Gratitudecville.com. Winners will get a trophy and sometimes a monetary award. To nominate person or organization that promotes and protects freedom in our community, email us at gratitudecville@gmail.c
