FTBOA named Ocala Nonprofit of the Year

The Florida Thoroughbred Breeders and Owners Association was named the 2015 Nonprofit Business of the Year by the Ocala/Marion County Chamber and Economic Partnership on Wednesday.

It is the second major award won by FTOBA this year, after being named Association of the Year by the Florida Society of Association Executives in July.

“This award was so exciting because we had outside judges who are people from outside our community,” said Kevin T. Sheilley, president and CEO of the Ocala/Marion County CEP. “They don’t know our organizations but judged the nominees strictly by the applications so they could make a solid selection.”

FTBOA represents more than 1,300 Thoroughbred and owners and breeders internationally who breed, raise, sell, train, and race horses in the state of Florida.

“To be named the Nonprofit Business of the Year in a county with more than 1,000 nonprofits is quite a humbling honor,” said FTBOA CEO Lonny Powell. It is particularly satisfying to know we have been recognized by the business and leadership communities for our best practices, programs, services, promotion, and advocacy.

“It takes great members, directors, and staff to have such a positive impact on a community and state, and it helps to be part of a great brand and product of the globally acclaimed, nationally respected, and locally-loved Florida-bred Thoroughbred and their connections,” he continued.