The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) recently concluded its annual Wreaths of Joy Campaign, raising $1,018 to support the United Way of Danville-Pittsylvania County. The holiday initiative featured 28 decorative wreaths donated by local organizations and businesses, each displayed in IALR’s atrium from Nov. 10 through Dec. 17.
Community members voted for their favorite wreaths by making donations, with each dollar equaling one raffle ticket. At the end of the campaign, wreaths were raffled off to donors who supported that design.
“This campaign is a wonderful way to bring festive cheer while supporting a meaningful cause,” said LaShaun Graham, Vice President of Human Resources at IALR. “We are grateful to all who participated and helped make a difference in our community.”
Superlatives
Most Votes: “Frosted Friend,” donated by Wreaths by Angel

Most Festive: “The Grinch,” donated by IALR’s Marketing and Communications Department

People’s Choice: “Cardinals in the Winter,” donated by Tyson Foods

Most Creative: “Die Hard Christmas,” donated by IALR’s Manufacturing Advancement division

Best Use of Recycled Materials: “Submit a Ticket for Assistance,” donated by IALR’s Information Technology Department

IALR extends its sincere thanks to all donors, participants and sponsors who made this year’s Wreaths of Joy Campaign a success. Together, we helped spread holiday cheer and support vital programs that strengthen our community.
All participants:
- Wreaths by Angel
- Prince Charles Home Healthcare, LLC
- IALR Advanced Learning
- Carter Bank and Trust
- Gingerbread House & Garden
- IALR Finance
- Building Blocks Center for Children
- IALR Director of Institutional Advancement, Emma Sellers
- Lending with Joy at Atlantic Coast Mortgage
- IALR Marketing & Communications
- Tyson Foods
- TECHnista
- First Piedmont Corporation
- IALR Applied Research
- Focus Point Mental Health
- IALR Information Technology
- Goodyear Tire & Rubber
- United Way of Danville-Pittsylvania County
- Wreathinkable Door Decor by Ky & IALR Human Resources Department
- Danville Community College
- Executive Vice President of IALR Operations, Dr. John Hughes
- First Piedmont Corporation
- Lillie Grace Studios
- The Arc of Southside
- IALR Manufacturing Advancement
- Sow Simply Said
- IALR Facilities
- IALR Economic Development