Baby T Sexton Honored as Mingo Nominee for 2026 Governor's Service Awards
Mingo County community advocate Tara 'Baby T' Sexton named a finalist for the state's top volunteer honor after leading flood recovery and grassroots aid across the Tug Valley.
WILLIAMSON, W.Va. — In today's world, discovering individuals whose personality is rooted in kindness and empathy — people who genuinely want to help those in need — is a rare occurrence. Those who stand firm and speak for people crumbling under the weight of life's burdens are a breath of fresh air, and an answer to the prayers of many.
On June 4, 2026, Mingo County had one of their own honored as a finalist nominated by her peers for this year's West Virginia Governor's Service Awards.
Although Tara "Baby T" Sexton fell short of being proclaimed the top volunteer of 2026 for the state, those whose lives she has touched on a local level will argue that decision — and will forever be grateful for the generosity, commitment, and dedication this community advocate and liaison has bestowed upon them and their community.
A Legacy of Service
The Community Service Awards have been presented by Volunteer West Virginia since 1995 to honor outstanding volunteerism and community service across the Mountain State. The program shines a spotlight on the dedicated individuals, groups, and businesses whose passion for helping others helps make West Virginia a better place to live, work, and thrive. Nominees are recognized for significant volunteer activities that directly address regional needs and inspire civic engagement.
According to the Community Services Awards press release, as an active voice and advocate in the Tug Valley area, Sexton's nomination reflects a steadfast dedication to grassroots community service, localized aid, and regional progress. The annual awards underscore a collective message from the Governor's office and Volunteer West Virginia that the dedication and hard work of local leaders do not go unnoticed, and their efforts remain foundational to the strength of the state.
Boots on the Ground
Although Sexton was no stranger to many Mingo County residents prior to the 2025 floods that ravaged communities across the Tug Valley, she quickly gained notoriety and became a household name as she stepped up to organize clean-up programs, head up food drives, and acquire donations for those who lost everything — while assisting with multiple clothing drives.
She took to the internet and reached out to charities and foundations across the country in hopes of garnering additional support not just for Mingo County, but for other locations in southern West Virginia and Eastern Kentucky that experienced damage due to flooding.
Sexton wasn't just a voice — she was boots on the ground. She was spotted on a daily basis working alongside other volunteers, helping shovel flood mud out of homes and garages, prioritizing the needs of the elderly and single mothers with children who had been affected. From daylight to dark, she was relentless and never faltered.
When asked why she was so determined to lend a hand, Sexton simply explained that her love for her hometown and its residents was a driving force she could not ignore — and that the needs of Mingo residents had been pushed to the back burner for far too long, and they deserved far more than they ever received.
Beyond the Flood
Sexton's hard work didn't fall to the wayside after flood recovery was underway. Instead, she simply moved on to other causes and projects, and continues to be an advocate for issues that include:
- Clean water access
- Children with special needs
- High utility costs
- Road problems that pose a safety threat to local residents
- Ongoing assistance for families in need or down on their luck
In Her Words
Regarding her nomination for the Governor's Service Awards, Sexton issued this statement:
“To see my name among the official nominees for the Governor's Service Awards is an incredibly humbling moment. I may not have been selected as the final recipient this year, but to be nominated for doing what I love — serving the people of Mingo County and southern West Virginia — is a true honor in itself. This recognition only strengthens my dedication to our community, and I want to congratulate all of this year's recipients and extend my thank you to all those who found me worthy of this nomination.”
Sexton will join other nominees from across the state for a special awards ceremony scheduled for August 6 at the Culture Center in Charleston.
Source: Volunteer West Virginia
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