Master Police Officer Ben Woodhouse Receives 2020 Health Promoter of the Year Award
Williamsburg, VA — After receiving a record number of nominations, the Greater Williamsburg Business Council’s Health Committee is thrilled to select Master Police Officer Ben Woodhouse as the 2020 Health Promoter of the Year. This award recognizes individuals, civic groups, or businesses that go above and beyond to create opportunities for members of our community to live healthier lives even though it is not their primary purpose of business to do so. You can learn more about the award and its criteria here.
Officer Woodhouse spearheaded the James City County Police Department Autism Awareness Project, which uses stickers and magnets to alert the community and public safety personnel that they may need to communicate differently with someone in a residence, place of work, or vehicle during an emergency situation. Officer Woodhouse also attended the William & Mary Daily Work of Justice series on Ability & Disability and has dedicated himself to raising awareness for marginalized and overlooked individuals in our community.
“Being the recipient of the Health Promoter Award is an unanticipated and humbling honor,” said Officer Woodhouse. “I never expected my dedication to those with disabilities and special needs to be spotlighted, however, I hope it brings continued awareness and support to this very diverse group of citizens who live and work within our community.”
It is clear that Officer Woodhouse has had a significant, personal impact on the Greater Williamsburg community. Throughout the COVID-19 Pandemic, he has conducted youth police camps and understands the importance of safe, virtual programming for children.
“Officer Woodhouse is a true servant to the community,” said James City County Police Chief, Bradley Rinehimer. “When he sees a problem or issue, he looks for ways to solve those problems. Ben is a great example of what you can do as a police officer when your heart is in the right place.”
Previous Health Promoter recipients include Williamsburg Landing in 2019, Ironbound Gym in 2018, and Henderson, Inc. in 2017.
“Serving fifteen years as a police officer in our community is in and of itself an amazing thing,” added Pam McGregor, Chair of the Business Council’s Health Committee. “It’s our incredible pleasure to announce that Officer Woodhouse was chosen as this year’s Health Promoter, and we applaud him for his dedication.”
Officer Woodhouse will be recognized at the 2021 Annual Dinner and featured in the November issue of Next Door Neighbors Magazine.
Master Police Officer Ben Woodhouse, 2020 Health Promoter of the Year