Williams Mullen Presents 2026 $25K Community Giving Award to Virginia Beach-based Sugar Plum Bakery

Williams Mullen is pleased to announce that Sugar Plum Bakery in Virginia Beach has been selected as the recipient of the firm’s 2026 Community Giving Award.

The Williams Mullen Community Giving Award was established to provide meaningful financial support to one nonprofit organization each year that demonstrates both a clear need and a strong impact in one of the communities we serve. This year’s recipient was selected from 17 employee-driven nominations across the firm and will receive a single gift of $25,000.

“At Williams Mullen, we believe strong communities and strong businesses go hand in hand, our people are deeply engaged in the organizations they care about, whether through leadership, service, or financial support. This award is a natural extension of that commitment. It allows us to come together as a firm to support an organization like Sugar Plum Bakery and the meaningful work it is doing in the community.” 

_{— Woody Fowler, president and CEO of Williams Mullen}

Sugar Plum Bakery is a nonprofit dedicated to serving individuals with disabilities through training, employment and education. For nearly 40 years, it has promoted integration by helping individuals with developmental disabilities become independent, contributing members of the community while building skills, confidence and independence. Through its thriving bakery, the organization provides a supportive, community-centered workplace that demonstrates inclusive employment in action. This award will help strengthen its ability to expand employment opportunities, enhance supportive services and further remove barriers to meaningful work for the individuals it serves.

“We are honored to receive this year’s Community Giving Award,” said Trish Clark, Sugar Plum Bakery’s executive director. “We believe in the potential of every individual, and this recognition helps shine a light on the importance of inclusive workplaces and community connection. We are grateful to Williams Mullen for recognizing and investing in our mission.”

Williams Mullen’s Community Giving Committee, comprised of employee representatives from across the firm, reviewed all nominations and presented a recommendation to the firm’s board of directors for approval. Sugar Plum Bakery was nominated by Scott C. Miller, a litigation partner in the firm’s Virginia Beach office who also serves on the bakery’s board of directors.

At Williams Mullen, giving back is a central part of our culture. Learn more about our commitment to the communities we serve by visiting our website here.