We’ve all heard the saying before: “If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life.”
But is that really possible? To go into work every day… and truly love it? Employees at the nine businesses profiled in this year’s Lynchburg Business Best Places to Work awards say, “Yes, it’s possible!”
After receiving numerous nominations from the community, we selected these organizations based on their company culture and community impact. From flexible hours to professional development opportunities, learn what makes each of these businesses stand out among the rest in Central Virginia.
Story originally published by LynchburgBusinessMag.com.
Sonny Merryman
COMPANY BIO: Sonny Merryman, Inc. was founded in 1967 by the late Floyd W. Merryman (Sonny) and his wife, Lou. From its humble beginnings in Rustburg, the company has become Virginia’s largest and most experienced bus dealership and employs nearly 200 people. The company operates four sales and service centers throughout the state: Central Virginia (Evington-Headquarters), Hampton Roads (Chesapeake), Northern Virginia (Manassas), and Greater Richmond (Ashland), which opened in 2018.
WORKPLACE CULTURE: On the last Thursday of every month, employees gather together for what they call “Popcorn Palooza” for company-provided snacks and beverages, as well as to recognize the Employee of the Month. Throughout the year, the company also hosts numerous other employee events such as games at the Hillcats stadium in the company box, tickets to LU baseball games, an annual Employee Family Picnic, and summer ice cream luncheons.
COMMUNITY IMPACT: Sonny Merryman employees host an annual Operation Christmas Child shoebox drive, ring the Salvation Army bell, serve on local emergency response teams, sponsor local youth athletics programs, and also offer their time to local nonprofits and association boards. In 2018, the company provided more than $150,000 in support to numerous nonprofits and philanthropic efforts.
IN THEIR WORDS: “I started working at Sonny Merryman 2.5 years ago with no previous experience in the automotive field. Since starting I’ve been provided with numerous resources, training, and a strong team of individuals that have fostered my professional growth. As a company, we have a collective ‘can-do’ attitude, which I believe much of our success can be attributed to.” – John Hatcher, Technician
“It’s a very family-oriented workplace. I feel empowered to not only be a great employee but also a great mom.” – April Droog, Warranty Analyst