Last summer, in an attempt to dilute the harsh effects the recession has had on businesses, Hilton Alexandria Old Town announced it would host a $10,000 meeting for a company with deep local and national charitable roots that was intent on stimulating future business for itself and for the benefit of Alexandrias economy. 

The company, however, unexpectedly awarded a total of $25,000, according to Director of Sales and Marketing Stephanie Snapkoski.

Overwhelmed with responses, the hotels staff solicited help from Mayor Bill Euille, the Alexandria Convention and Visitors Association and representatives from the companys headquarters. 

They whittled down the finalists to Volunteer Alexandria, a local nonprofit organization that connects volunteers with the community, Volunteers of America, a national nonprofit organization providing local human service programs and the opportunity for individual and community involvement, and For Goodness Sake, Inc., a non-profit organization that produces events to raise funds and awareness for issues effecting women and children.

Though the panel selected Volunteers of America as winner of the free meeting giveaway, there were no losers, Snapkoski said, because Hilton contributed an additional $5,000 to each finalist, including Volunteers of America, to help make their meeting a reality that could propel the organization and their goals forward.