Luxury Resort Gives $200K to Virginia Charities

When Keswick Hall hosted the Southern Living Idea House, owner Molly Hardie decided every penny from ticket sales should stay in the community. That decision just put $200,000 into the hands of three Virginia charities.

The luxury resort near Charlottesville announced the donation will be split among the Yellow Door Foundation, Building Goodness Foundation, and Hospice of the Piedmont. General Manager Louis Shapazian says Hardie, a dedicated philanthropist, deliberately chose organizations that serve people at different life stages.

"She has a really strong focus on local charities and the ones that she selected for this endeavor really encompasses every stage of life," Shapazian explained. The Yellow Door Foundation supports youth programs, Building Goodness Foundation helps with construction and disaster relief, and Hospice of the Piedmont provides end-of-life care.

The donation wasn't an automatic decision. Hardie could have reinvested the ticket revenue into resort operations or other business ventures. Instead, she saw an opportunity to make a lasting impact where her business calls home.

Why This Inspires

This story shows how businesses can weave generosity into their everyday operations. Hardie didn't wait for extra profits or a special occasion. She simply built philanthropy into an existing event.

The timing matters too. Shapazian notes the organizations can now plan for long-term solutions and community care throughout 2026, removing financial stress from their operations. That kind of breathing room lets nonprofits focus on their missions instead of constant fundraising.

While the Southern Living Idea House moves to a new location next year, making this a one-time donation, Keswick Hall wanted the gift to be meaningful. For three Virginia charities serving kids, families in crisis, and people nearing life's end, $200,000 will create ripples of support throughout the community for years to come.