CEO Courtney Edgcomb, 2026 Community Champion Ida Babazadeh, Dr. Audrey Butler (ACOP Chair, CFUW Board Member, and First Lady of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University). Courtesy Photo
Amy and Glenn Ritchey, Jr. among attendees. Courtesy Photo
Hyatt Brown addresses the room. Courtesy Photo
(left to right) Carrie Register, Nellie Lupoli, Maja Bowler, Kelly Kwiatek, and Stephanie Wohlford. Courtesy Photo
(left to right) CEO Courtney Edgcomb with Kevin Bowler, Jennie Bowler, Maja Bowler, and Chris Bowler. Courtesy Photo
The Community Foundation and United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties (CFUW) announced the Bowler and Ufheil families, founders of Daytona Beverages, as the 2026 Herbert M. Davidson Honorees at this year’s Annual Celebration of Philanthropy on June 3 at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. The organization also recognized Ida Babazadeh as the 2026 Community Champion.
The event brought together leaders, philanthropists, and community partners to celebrate the generosity and impact throughout Volusia and Flagler Counties. Among the evening's most memorable moments were inspiring tributes from Kelly Kwiatek, Chief Legal Counsel of Halifax Health, and Hyatt Brown, both longtime friends of the Bowler and Ufheil families, who shared stories highlighting the recipients' character, leadership, and commitment to giving back.
Proceeds from this event benefit the Daytona Beverages Community First Fund, established in honor of the Bowler and Ufheil families to provide practical, life-changing support for individuals and families throughout our community.
Ida Babazadeh Named 2026 Community Champion
Ida Babazadeh was recognized as the 2026 Community Champion for her leadership and commitment to improving the health and well-being of the community. A heartfelt tribute was delivered by her cousin, Nellie Lupoli, a past Community Champion recipient, who shared personal reflections on Ida's compassion, authenticity, and dedication to serving others.
"This year's Annual Celebration of Philanthropy was an extraordinary success and a powerful reminder of the generosity that defines our community," said CEO Courtney Edgcomb. "From the moment the program began, the energy in the room was undeniable. Our honorees are individuals who are genuinely admired and championed by this community, and that was evident throughout the evening. We are grateful to everyone who joined us in celebrating the remarkable people whose leadership, generosity, and service continue to make our community strong."
For more information about the Daytona Beverages Fund, or to learn more about the Community Foundation and United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties, visit: connectvfc.org. The Herbert M. Davidson Award, one of the region’s most prestigious philanthropic honors, recognizes individuals and families that have made a transformational difference in the community.
About the Community Foundation and United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties
The Community Foundation and United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties works to improve lives and strengthen communities by inspiring philanthropy, supporting nonprofit organizations, and addressing the most pressing needs in Volusia and Flagler Counties.