The NWW Foundation is a 509(a)(3) supporting charity, founded in 2018 to support NW Works, Inc. As a private foundation, the NWW Foundation disperses at least 5 percent of assets each year to NW Works, which helps cover program expenses for the organization. The Foundation is focused on both investing existing assets and fundraising additional assets to prepare for the future of NW Works.
It is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, much like NW Works.
Grady W. (Skip) Philips, III, is NW Work’s Chief Executive Officer. Prior to joining NW Works in January of 2023, he was the President of Winchester Medical Center and SVP for Acute Care for Valley Health.
Originally from Georgia, Skip brings more than 30 years of experience leading not-for-profit health systems and community-based healthcare in Virginia and Georgia. His collaborative approach to leadership has led to significant service expansions in the Northern Shenandoah Valley, including NW Works’ transitional employment program at Winchester Medical Center, ProjectSEARCH. Skip graduated from Emory University in Atlanta, with bachelor’s degrees in Chemistry and History. He holds a Master of Health Care Administration and a Master of Business Administration, both from Georgia State University.
During his career, he has served in numerous community, church, civic and business organizations with a focus on making his community healthier and a better place to live and work. An active member of the Winchester community, Skip has served on the Board of Directors for the Sinclair Health Clinic and is currently a board member and Treasurer for the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley. He has been a member of the Healthcare Council of the Northern Capital Area Planning Committee and has been involved with Lead Virginia as a Regional Advisory Member and Alumni Panelist. Skip is also a Lifetime Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.
Outside of work, Skip enjoys spending time with his wife Cathy and his three adult children, traveling, hiking and experiencing new adventures and places. Skip and Cathy both support and serve through a variety of community organizations in our community.
Ellen Mason is the Secretary of the NWW Foundation Board. She is also former member of the Board of Directors and a former Board President. A former nurse, Ellen brings a personal connection to NW Works, as the parent of a former client.
Jason Aikens is a current member of the NWW Foundation, and a former President and Member of the NW Works Board of Directors. Jason is the Vice President of the Aikens Group and brings a unique combination of experience in business management, hospitality and real estate to NW Works.
Erin Drumheller joined the NW Works Foundation Board in 2022 and serves on the Therapeutic Programs Committee. As a Financial Advisor with Edward Jones, Erin is committed to serving our community and looks forward to making a positive impact in the lives of current and future NW Works Clients.
Forrest Limon joined the NWW Foundation Board in 2020. A Financial Advisor at JP Morgan Chase, Forrest brings a fresh perspective to the Foundation and is eager to make a difference at NW Works.
Debera Taylor is the Director of Corporate Training for Laurel Ridge Community College. She is the past President & CEO of NW Works, Inc. serving the organization from 2019-2022. She is the former Vice President, Operations for Fortessa Tableware Solution, LLC an international company operating a foreign-trade-zone operation in Winchester, VA. In every role of her career, she has focused on people. She has coached, counseled, and developed individuals to reach their highest potential. Her work experience spans industries such as manufacturing, distribution, logistics, retail, and foodservice operations. She holds her bachelor’s degree in business, has been certified as a Human Resource professional, is a certified Development Dimensions International, Inc. instructor, holds a Blackbelt in Lean Six Sigma, VA Tech and has completed Master level courses in Adult Education. She has conducted trainings for small groups, led team development camps, and has spoken in front of audiences of over 500 attendees.
Jason Williams joined the NWW Foundation Board in 2022, bringing nearly three decades of financial services experience to the organization. As a Financial Advisor at the Myrias Group, Jason uses a team-based approach to help his clients reach their financial goals. He hopes to bring that same mentality to the NWW Foundation.
NWW Foundation is managed by
