CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (CBS19 NEWS) -- The personal injury law firm of Allen and Allen recently announced the 14th annual award winners for its Hometown Heroes program. 

The firm first started this awards program back in 2010 to celebrate its 100th anniversary and since then has recognized more than 500 heroes in the Central Virginia area. Allen and Allen looks for people who work to make Charlottesville a better place. 

“We look for people who instill the firm's values like passion, community and family,” Managing Attorney Richard Alexander said.

On Friday night, their hard work was recognized. Three of the five Charlottesville recipients attended Fridays After Five at the Ting Pavilion and were recognized on stage. Among the heroes is 13-year-old Natalie Jenkins who was recognized for her nonprofit, Finally Home Animal Haven. 

“It basically reminds me how much hard work we have put into this, and it means a lot to me,” Jenkins said.

Alex-Zan was also recognized for his work in education. He's one of the Charlottesville 12, the name given to 12 Black students who first attended Charlottesville’s previously all-white schools. This experience led to his passion for facilitating creative and interactive presentations for people of all ages. 

“Well, it means a lot. I have been at this for 35, 40 years and I come from a family of giving,” Alex-Zan said.

The third hero recognized was Latara Ragland who is the co-president of Families Helping Families Fund, which aids children in reaching their full potential in and outside of school.

“It's not about me by any means, it's the people I am connected to and this work with Families Helping Families is 100 percent volunteer, so the people come with their heart,” said Ragland.

You can visit Allen and Allen’s website to see the rest of the 2023 Hometown Heroes.