LUDLOW, Vt. – The Ludlow Volunteer Firefighters Association recognized two local businesses for their outstanding commitment to the Ludlow community during a gathering on Dec. 13, 2025.
Representatives from William Raveis Vermont Properties and Benson’s Chevrolet were in attendance. On behalf of the association, Fire Chief Ben Whalen presented Community Service Awards to both organizations in appreciation of their continued support.
Kathy Burns and Kevin Barnes, of William Raveis Vermont Properties, accepted a plaque recognizing their leadership and fundraising efforts, particularly the 2025 Fire and Ice fundraiser. That event raised more than $96,000 to upgrade and enhance the Ludlow Fire Department’s radio communications system, including new portable radios, mobile radios, and a repeater. The project significantly improves operational effectiveness and firefighter safety, and would not have been possible without their efforts and the generous support of event sponsors.
Benson’s Chevrolet, represented by George and Mary Benson, was honored for its longstanding support of the association and the broader Ludlow community. In recent years, Benson’s has been a key sponsor of the association’s annual Five Alarm 5K run, and has supported numerous community events, including the trunk-or-treat celebration held each Halloween.
Established in 1959, the Ludlow Volunteer Firefighters Association is a nonprofit fundraising organization comprised of current and former firefighters. Its mission is to empower and support all firefighters by providing resources, training, and equipment to enhance service to the community, while fostering camaraderie, professionalism, and continuous learning. Through fundraising efforts, the association invests in modern equipment that helps protect lives, property, and the environment.
The association expressed its gratitude for the continued support of local businesses and community members, noting that initiatives like these would not be possible without their generosity and partnership.