Matt Brandt - State Farm Agency

10/03/2026

Congratulations to our October spotlight:

BRIAN FREEMAN AND KONNECT MINISTRIES

This month, we were honored to hear Brian Freeman’s incredible story of recovery and redemption—a journey he describes in four powerful words:

Cop. Co***ne. Convict. Christ.

Brian had always dreamed of serving in law enforcement, and that dream became a reality. He was even named Officer of the Year twice. But eventually, everything came crashing down. Brian became addicted to co***ne and was later convicted.

During that difficult season of his life, Brian found the One he credits for transforming his life and giving him hope: Christ.

Brian is quick to give credit where he believes it belongs:

“I am not the healer. Christ is the true healer.”

That message is also reflected in the scripture displayed on a bench at the entrance of the recovery home:

Matthew 11:30:
“For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

In 2022, Brian founded Konnect Ministries, turning his own experiences with addiction, incarceration, and recovery into a mission to help others find hope and rebuild their lives.

His grandad once told him, “Treat everyone like a relative.” Those words stayed with Brian. Today, they are reflected in the way he serves others—meeting people where they are, without judgment, and helping them discover where they can go.

Konnect Ministries is more than a place to live. It is a family, a safe place, and a fresh start. The ministry provides structure, accountability, employment opportunities, volunteer work, classes, brotherhood, and—most importantly—the opportunity to become the person God created each individual to be.

Men who enter the program commit to doing the hard work of change: finding employment, serving others, following structure, taking responsibility, and connecting with themselves, others, and God.

What makes this ministry so powerful is that Brian understands the journey because he has walked it himself. His past is not something he hides—it has become part of the testimony he uses to help others find a different future.

Thousands of lives can be changed when someone is willing to say, “Your story doesn’t have to end here.”

🙏 How can you help?

You can support Konnect Ministries by shopping at their furniture store, Konnect Wholesale Furniture, located at Caroline Super Market. You can also make a pledge to help sponsor someone who is committed to becoming and staying sober.

To learn more or support this life-changing ministry:

📧 [email protected]
http://Konnectministries.com
📞 540-492-4402

Do you know an individual or organization that lifts up our community and is deserving of our monthly spotlight? If so, please reach out to [email protected] or give us a call at 804-633-4242. We look forward to hearing from you!

09/02/2026

Congratulations to our September Spotlight:

Owen Matthews

Much of Owen’s service happens quietly and anonymously. He was even reluctant to be recognized as our spotlight. But sometimes the people who seek recognition the least are the ones who deserve it most. Mr. Matthews serves because he believes God has called him to love others.

A Vietnam Marine, husband, father of three, musician, farmer, and humble servant, Owen purchased Woodcot Farm in 2011—and what began as a farm has become a place of hope, healing, service, and faith.

Through Woodcot Farm, Owen has helped and continues to help those experiencing homelessness, grows a community garden that provides food to our local food bank and community, assists with medical needs, and recently has helped restore the historic St. Margret’s, now known as Fields of Faith, an 1883 church where people gather for food, fellowship, and God’s Word.

Ask Owen how all of this happened, and he won’t tell you what he has accomplished.

He’ll tell you what God has done.

❤️ And the story is still being written.

Woodcot Farm needs people willing to share their time, talents, and hearts—in the community garden, at Tuesday night Dinner Church, painting, or helping with projects around the farm. Come, volunteer, and share your time and talents. You don’t have to do something extraordinary. Just be willing. God can do the rest.

Congratulations, Owen Matthews, on being our Community Spotlight! Thank you for showing us what it truly means to put faith into action.

Faith. Service. Love. Hope.
That is the legacy being built at Woodcot Farm. ❤️

🙏 “Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” — 1 Corinthians 10:31

Do you know an individual or organization that lifts up our community and is deserving of our monthly spotlight? If so, please reach out to [email protected] or give us a call at 804-633-4242. We look forward to hearing from you!

08/02/2026

Congratulations to Our August Spotlight Honoree:

Rehoboth UMC Food Ministry

What began in 2003 with just five bags of non-perishable food, milk, bread, and eggs donated by church families has grown into a ministry that touches hundreds of lives every month.

On that very first day, three families came seeking assistance, and the volunteers were simply grateful for the opportunity to serve. Today, through a partnership with the Fredericksburg Food Bank, the Rehoboth UMC Food Ministry provides food to more than 400 families each month, including senior food boxes and groceries for neighbors experiencing food insecurity.

Behind this incredible ministry are 18 dedicated volunteers whose compassion and commitment make it all possible. Their ages range from 4 years old to 96-year-old “Mama Rae,” proving that there is no age limit to serving others. Many volunteers faithfully give their time three days each week, building more than a food pantry—they’ve built lasting friendships and a true sense of community.

As one volunteer shared:

“Many of the families that come through this food pantry have been with us for a long time. We have built so many friendships and relationships that we are so thankful for. It has been a lifesaver for so many of them. We are very happy to serve and be here for our community.”

The Rehoboth UMC Food Ministry reminds us that service is about more than providing food—it’s about offering hope, dignity, and the reassurance that no one has to face life’s challenges alone.

Becky, who has volunteered alongside her husband, Jim, since the ministry began, offers this encouragement:

“If you can use your skills and your talents to help others, go do that. Share those gifts, and you will be truly blessed—more blessed than you can ever imagine.”

Whether you’re young or young at heart, there is a place for everyone to serve. The Rehoboth UMC Food Ministry welcomes volunteers of all abilities and believes everyone has something valuable to contribute.

The pantry is open every Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and Fridays from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Congratulations to the Rehoboth UMC Food Ministry on being our August Spotlight! Thank you for being the hands and feet of Christ and for demonstrating the extraordinary impact that ordinary people can have when they serve with love.



Do you know an individual or organization that lifts up our community and is deserving of our monthly Spotlight and some freshly baked cookies? If so, please reach out to [email protected] or give us a call at 804-633-4242.

07/07/2026

WE ARE HIRING!
We are currently seeking a talented, results-oriented (and preferably Spanish speaking) person who cares about serving our community.
Apply here mattbrandt.SFAgentJobs.com.

VA Auto, life, home insurance and more from State Farm Insurance Agent Matt Brandt in Ruther Glen. Call (804) 633-4242 today for a free quote!

07/02/2026

We are excited to announce our second $1,000 scholarship winner and spotlight for July…..

🎊👏Kayla Veney!!!🎊👏

Nominated by her peers and school staff as someone who constantly lifts others up, Kayla Veney is the definition of a leader. Whether she is on the sports field or helping out at home, Kayla always focuses on understanding people and lending a hand.

Growing up, Kayla played volleyball, basketball, and track all through high school. When her track coach suggested hurdles, her competitive spirit took over. Kayla competed in the 100 hurdles, 300 hurdles, and 4x1. By her freshman year, she was already chasing down seniors. That determination was tested last summer when Kayla tore her ACL and needed surgery. But giving up wasn't an option. She leaned on the resilience she learned from her mom, a busy nurse who teaches Kayla how to balance responsibilities and always makes time to show up for her daughter's games.
Kayla steps up heavily at home, helping care for her grandpa when her mom is at work. This care for others carries over to school. Kayla is the go-to person for advice because she is easy to talk to and great at seeing things from both sides. "Not everything is as it seems," Kayla says. She cares deeply about mental health and believes that what we say—and how we say it—matters. To avoid miscommunication, she always aims for clear, kind conversations.

This fall, Kayla is heading to James Madison University. While she is a mix of excited and nervous, she plans to dive headfirst into the college experience. She wants to make deep connections, grow her communication skills, and keep helping others. JMU is getting a good one!

🌟🌟🤩Do you know an individual or organization that lifts up our community and is deserving of our monthly Spotlight and some freshly baked cookies? If so, please reach out to [email protected] or give us a call at 804-633-4242.

06/03/2026

We are excited to announce our spotlight for June and our first $1,000 Lifting-Up Scholarship winner……Dominic Arellano!!!!

If you ever need a helping hand, a warm smile, or just someone to talk to at school, Dominic is the person to find. Nominated by both his peers and school faculty, Dominic has earned a reputation as a student who consistently spreads kindness, goodwill, and positivity throughout the hallways. For Dominic, being there for others isn't just a casual habit—it is a personal mission. "We never truly know what someone else is going through," Dominic says. "Everyone needs help in some way. If we have the ability to help someone, we absolutely should."

Dominic's ability to connect with people stems from his open nature. He comfortably moves between many different groups at school, treating everyone he meets with the same baseline of respect and warmth. This community-first mindset keeps him incredibly busy both inside and outside the classroom.

Dominic has played soccer since the age of six, competing through both middle school and high school. He balances his academic workload with two jobs, working at the local YMCA and Taco Bell. Through sports and customer service, Dominic has mastered the art of working with diverse groups of people. He believes his peers nominated him for this spotlight because they know his door is always open.

When asked about his personal inspiration, Dominic points directly to his father, who works in the ER in the radiology department. "He is the hardest working person I know," Dominic shares. "He loves his family more than anything." Dominic strives to mirror that same deep dedication to family and strong work ethic in his own daily life.

This fall, Dominic will take his talents, his work ethic, and his signature smile to Radford University. While college brings a brand-new environment, Dominic has no plans to change who he is. He intends to remain the same outgoing, approachable person campus-wide.

For Dominic, the formula for a successful future is simple.
"Building relationships is always the very first part," he says. "No matter where I am, if anyone needs anything, they can always come to me."



Do you know an individual or organization that lifts up our community and is deserving of our monthly spotlight and some freshly baked cookies? If so, please reach out to [email protected] or give us a call at (804) 633-4242.

05/04/2026

🎉 May Community Spotlight + Cookie Delivery #2 🍪

We’re proud to recognize this month’s spotlight… Jeff Black!

Jeff was nominated by multiple members of our community—and it’s easy to see why.
A true cornerstone of Caroline County, Jeff balances a full-time teaching career in Spotsylvania while dedicating countless hours to lift up our community. While many know him as the Western District Supervisor, his greatest impact is felt through his hands-on commitment to helping others.

From advocating for local water issues to hosting trivia nights, Jeff is always finding ways to bring people together. He plays a key role in the Ladysmith Ruritan Club—supporting trade school scholarships and organizing holiday meals and gifts for families in need. He also leads the county’s largest fundraiser, the Polar Plunge, and organizes quarterly Adopt-a-Highway cleanups.
Those who know Jeff describe him as someone who “never asks for credit.” Whether he’s welcoming a new business or jumping into freezing water to support a cause, his people-first leadership speaks for itself.

When we asked Jeff about the recognition, he said: “I don’t like to be in the spotlight—I just want to help the community.” He also made it clear that none of this is done alone: He said he is blessed to work as a team alongside so many wonderful people to lift up our community.
As Phil Jackson once said: “The strength of the team is each individual member. The strength of each member is the team.”

👏 Thank you, Jeff—and thank you to everyone who continues to make our community such a special place.



Do you know an individual or organization that lifts up our community and is deserving of our monthly Spotlight and some freshly baked cookies? If so, please reach out to [email protected] or give us a call at 804-633-4242.

04/02/2026

We are EXCITED to share our SPOTLIGHT for the Month of April, and the first recipient of our cookie delivery 🍪….

🚩DEDEE AND DENNY WALDROP!🚩

“Dedee and Denny have had a trying last year. I’m sure they could use some sweets and a smile!”

A Year of Trials and Quiet Miracles

To say Dedee and Denny have had a trying year would be an understatement.

Last year, Denny survived a devastating accident — over 40 broken bones, a shattered pelvis and rib cage, and a leg nearly torn away. In an instant, life changed.

They’ve always been the kind of people who give to others, so learning to receive was humbling. But in that space, something beautiful happened. Denny began keeping track of the “miracles” he’s experienced — cards still arriving months later, neighbors stepping in to help with farming, and a community that continues to show up with kindness in both big and small ways.

They remind all of us that even in life’s hardest seasons, gratitude can take root. That miracles often look like people showing up, again and again. And that sometimes, the most inspiring hearts belong to those who have every reason to feel broken—but choose instead to be thankful.

Their story is a reminder that even during our most challenging moments, kindness multiplies, gratitude grows, and miracles often look like people simply showing up for one another.

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Do you know someone who has touched your life, uplifted our community, or needs a little encouragement? Each month, we’ll brighten one person’s day with cookies 🍪 or flowers 💐 and a heartfelt message. Let’s spread kindness together—nominate someone who deserves to be celebrated or lifted up. Reach out to [email protected], comment below, or call 804-633-4242. Who will you nominate?

03/03/2026

🍪💐We are excited to start a new way to SPOTLIGHT the amazing people in our community!

We’re inviting you (our community members) to NOMINATE SOMEONE who:

• Has positively impacted your life, volunteers in our community, or is very giving/serving to others, or
• Is going through a tough time and can use a pick-me-up or a little encouragement

How it works:

1. Send us a name and short message by commenting below, emailing [email protected], or calling 804-633-4242.
2. Each month, we’ll choose one person to receive a delivery of cookies🍪 (or flowers💐), along with a kind message.

“Sometimes it takes only one act of kindness to change a person’s life.” – Jackie Chan

Let’s spread kindness as a community by recognizing those who make a difference and lifting up those who need it. We look forward to a wonderful year of celebrating our community!😊

02/03/2026

This month we are honored and humbled to express our gratitude for the amazing members in our community who stepped up to help others during the past couple weeks. Here are just a few amongst many: The V-DOT workers who worked around the clock to help clear our roadways, all emergency responders who put their own lives on the line to respond to the calls from people who needed them, and also many people in the community who stepped up in ways they didn’t have to.

There have been countless accounts shared across social media. Here are a some amazing examples we saw of “Lifting Up Your Community”:
1. “I would like to send a thank you to the gentleman on the red tractor that plowed our driveway and made it easier to get in and out. Not sure who it was, but it is greatly appreciated.”
2. “Whoever was the sweet soul that plowed my driveway thank you so much! I missed it happening and feel awful! I wasn't able to thank you or pay you. There are good people left!”
3. “Shout out to the random good ol’boy with a farm tractor and plow cruising this morning. He passed my house and saw me fighting for my life with a plastic shovel. He turned around, backed down my driveway and cleared it with one pass. I ran into the house to grab him some cash and he was gone before I could catch him. You Sir, are exactly what I love about this community, God bless you!”

Kindness is one of the greatest gifts you can bestow upon another. If someone is in need, lend them a helping hand. Do not wait for a thank you. True kindness lies within the act of giving without the expectation of something in return. Jennifer Pahlka said, “When one neighbor helps another, we strengthen our communities.” Thank you for all of your acts of kindness that have ultimately strengthened us as a community!

If you have an example of kindness that you have witnessed or experienced, please reach out and share!!! Please reach out to [email protected] or give us a call at 804-633-4242.