As the 2024 SOAR Gala approaches, we want to ensure you have all the information needed to enjoy an unforgettable evening at the Mountain Arts Center in Prestonsburg. Below are some key details to help you prepare for the event, from dress code to lodging options.

Event Overview

The SOAR Gala, presented by Kentucky Power, is set for Saturday, April 27, at the Mountain Arts Center. It’s a night dedicated to celebrating the remarkable individuals and organizations making a positive impact in Appalachia. From red-carpet arrivals to an inspiring awards ceremony and a lively reception, the evening promises to be both glamorous and meaningful.

• Red Carpet – 2 p.m. Arrive early to enjoy the red carpet experience, light refreshments, and networking
• Awards Ceremony – 3:30 p.m. Prepare to be inspired as we recognize outstanding individuals and organizations
• Reception – 6 p.m. Continue the celebration at the reception, sponsored by Appalachian Regional Healthcare. 

Mountain Arts Center
50 Hal Rogers Drive,
Prestonsburg, KY 41653

Lodging

Prestonsburg and the surrounding areas offer a range of lodging options to accommodate guests traveling for the gala. From charming AirBnB’s to comfortable hotels, you’ll find suitable accommodations to make your stay enjoyable. 

Click here to view the full lodging list.

We encourage you to book your accommodation early as rooms tend to fill up quickly!

Dress Code

The dress code for the evening is semi-formal or business attire. It’s the perfect occasion to dress up and enjoy an evening of elegance and celebration, but what is most important is that you are confident and comfortable in whatever you choose to wear.

You can check out the Facebook album from last year’s event for some inspiration! 

Ticket Sales

Tickets for the SOAR Gala are $100 per person, but you can use the promo code “BLOG24” for a $25 discount! Ticket sales will close on April 25, 2024, so make sure to purchase yours before the deadline. Tickets can be purchased here.

Reception

After the awards ceremony, the evening will continue with a networking reception sponsored by Appalachian Regional Healthcare. This will be a fantastic opportunity to mingle with honorees, meet other attendees, and enjoy light refreshments and entertainment. Food is provided by Masterpiece Cafe, Masterpiece Kitchen and Cafe, and 3 Sisters Events, enterprises of Addiction Recovery Care. The reception will start at 6 p.m.

We’ll See You There

We are looking forward to seeing you at the SOAR Gala and celebrating the incredible achievements within the Appalachian community. Prepare for a night of joy, inspiration, and community spirit that you won’t want to miss!

If you have questions about the 2024 SOAR Gala, contact our Events Coordinator, Kirsten Wilburn, at kirsten@soar-ky.org.

Award List

Here are the awards that we accepted nominations for this year.

Hal Rogers Lifetime Achievement Award Presented by Rajant Corporation

This distinguished award honors a lifetime devoted to the preservation, promotion, and enhancement of the unique cultural, artistic, and historical heritage that defines Appalachia. This award is proudly presented by Rajant Corporation.

Business Person of the Year Presented by Community Trust Bank

This award acknowledges a business leader whose exemplary leadership has been instrumental in building a successful business/corporation in Appalachia Kentucky. This award is proudly presented by Community Trust Bank.

Appalachian Leadership Award Presented by Creative Media of Kentucky and Casebolt Marketing

The recipient of the Appalachian Leadership Award is an individual recognized for their exceptional leadership and contributions impacting the region. This award is proudly presented by Creative Media of Kentucky and Casebolt Marketing.

Appalachian Humanitarian Award Presented by Volunteers of America Mid-States

The Appalachian Humanitarian Award honors individuals or organizations dedicated to advancing social causes throughout Appalachia Kentucky, encompassing a broad spectrum such as poverty alleviation, addressing food insecurity, improving housing conditions, enhancing educational access, and more. This award is proudly presented by Volunteers of America Mid-States.

City of the Year Award Presented by MakeMyMove

The City of the Year Award acknowledges a city or municipal government actively fostering opportunities for its residents and strategically attracting new citizens, talent, and industries through innovative and collaborative initiatives. This award is proudly presented by MakeMyMove.

County of the Year Award Presented by MakeMyMove

The County of the Year Award acknowledges a county government actively engaged in creating opportunities for its citizens and attracting new residents, talent, and industries through innovative and collaborative approaches. This award is proudly presented by MakeMyMove.

Connect Appalachia Award Presented By Gearheart Communications, Inc.

The Connect Appalachia Award honors individuals, groups, or organizations dedicated to advancing broadband connectivity, enhancing digital equity, supporting remote work, promoting digital literacy, and other related initiatives. This award is proudly presented by Gearheart Communications, Inc. 

Healthy Communities Award Presented by Kentucky Department for Public Health

The Healthy Communities Award acknowledges the efforts of an individual, group, or organization actively working to combat health disparities in Appalachia Kentucky. This award is proudly presented by Kentucky Department for Public Health. 

Downtown of the Year Award Presented by SOAR

The Downtown of the Year Award honors a downtown or Main Street organization dedicated to supporting existing businesses, attracting new enterprises, and engaging in collaborative beautification initiatives, including enhancing downtown Wi-Fi access. This award is proudly presented by Shaping Our Appalachian Region, Inc. 

Tourism Organization of the Year Award Presented by Qk4

The Tourism Organization of the Year Award acknowledges a local or regional tourism agency demonstrating creative efforts in promoting existing tourism assets and simultaneously developing capacity to generate new opportunities for attracting visitors to Eastern Kentucky. This award is proudly presented by Qk4.

Startup of the Year Award Presented by KY Innovation

The Startup of the Year Award is presented to a small business or startup that has initiated or expanded its operations by harnessing innovation and technology to reach customers beyond the confines of Appalachia Kentucky. A startup is defined as a business in operation for five years or less. This award is proudly presented by KY Innovation.

Appalachian Recovery Award Presented by Operation UNITE

The Appalachian Recovery Award is bestowed upon an individual, group, or organization actively engaged on the frontlines, offering opportunities for recovery to those affected by Substance Use Disorder. This award celebrates initiatives focused on training, employment, educational pathways, family support, and community impact, highlighting the transformative power of collaborative efforts and innovative approaches. This award is proudly presented by Operation UNITE.

Appalachian Student of the Year Award Presented By KCTCS

This award is given to a high school or college student who has impacted their school, college/university, and/or community through academic excellence and community service. This award is proudly presented by KCTCS.

Appalachian Teacher of the Year Award Presented By KCTCS

The Appalachian Teacher of the Year Award is presented to a high school or college teacher or professor who has left a lasting impact on their educational institution and community, demonstrating a commitment to academic excellence and notable contributions through community service. This award is proudly presented by KCTCS.