The Chamber of Talladega, Lincoln and Munford named the Presbyterian Home for Children the Nonprofit of the Year at their 2026 Chamber Awards on May 12.
The Home had a big night at the Chamber awards, with former Board member Millie Chastain being named Citizen of the Year and Ascension Leadership Academy Assistant Director Charles Ponder being named the private school Teacher of the Year.
The awards were announced at the annual dinner held at Ridge Point Events Venue in Talladega.
The keynote speaker was former University of Alabama football player Jeremiah Castille, who is also founder of the Jeremiah Castille Foundation. In the summer of 2017 prior to joining the Home as President and CEO, Doug Marshall had to opportunity to meet with Castille who encouraged and prayed over him. Six months later, the former corporate executive felt a call to ministry at the Presbyterian Home for Children.
The Home remains actively involved in local civic and community efforts, with our staff members serving on boards, participating in community events and supporting initiatives that strengthen Talladega and the surrounding area. Our own Stephani Burton, Vice President of People, Culture and Administration, serves as a 2026 board member of the Chamber representing the Home and most recently provided leadership to Chamber in hosting a jobs fair in Talladega to help employees impacted by the closing of a local manufacturer.
“We are honored to be recognized by the Chamber as Nonprofit of the Year,” PHFC CEO Doug Marshall said. “This award reflects the dedication of our staff, volunteers and supporters who work every day to serve children and families. Talladega has supported the Presbyterian Home for Children for generations, and we are proud to continue being part of this community and investing in its future.”
