Interview
Tina Larue
United States
As Co-Founder and Co-Chair of Cows ‘n Cabs, Inc., Tina Larue has spent more than a decade developing a fundraising initiative that turns celebration into impact for children’s causes in Central Florida. Her leadership has helped grow the organization into an award-recognized platform built on volunteer dedication and community support.
1 Congratulations on your achievement in the TITAN Business Awards! Could you tell us a bit about yourself and your role, as well as your business or organization?
I’m Tina Larue, the Co-Founder and Co-Chair of Cows ‘n Cabs, Inc. Back in 2011, my husband and I envisioned a creative way to raise funds while having fun. We aimed to create a celebration with a purpose, and now, 15 years later, here we are!
2 Winning such a prestigious award is a milestone for many. How did you feel when you first learned about your win, and what does this recognition mean to you personally or professionally?
It’s truly an honor to receive our first significant award for Cows ‘n Cabs on a global platform. As a volunteer dedicated to raising funds for children in need in Central Florida, being recognized by the Titan Business Awards is a remarkable achievement.
3 What inspired you to submit your entry for this competition, and what aspects of your submission made you feel confident it could stand out?
One of the primary motivations for submitting our entry was the blind judging process. Receiving this award solely based on merit speaks volumes about the countless hours and sleepless nights we dedicated to making Cows ‘n Cabs the best it can be.
4 Were there significant obstacles you faced along the way, and how did you or your team overcome them to reach this success?
Cows ‘n Cabs has been held at the same park for the last 14 years. Throughout this time, the City of Winter Park has implemented various improvements to the area, which have complicated logistics significantly. While the new improvements enhance our footprint and contribute to the increasingly beautiful vegetation, it also occupies more unusable space for us. Additionally, we must address safety concerns in our rapidly changing world. Ensuring our guests have a safe and enjoyable experience is a top priority in this evolving environment.
5 Winning is often just the beginning. How do you plan to leverage this recognition to further your business goals or inspire others in your industry?
Winning the Gold in the Community Engagement Event for Titan Business Awards will hopefully springboard for us to reach an even wider audience and show event guests and sponsors how serious we are. We’re eager to leverage this recognition to expand our reach and impact, highlighting the dedication and passion that drives Cows ‘n Cabs. This award not only validates our efforts but also inspires us to continue innovating and enhancing the experiences we offer. We hope it attracts more sponsors and partners who share our vision of supporting children’s charities in Central Florida. With this accolade, we aim to build stronger community connections and create even more memorable events in the future.
6 Participating in awards can be a learning experience. What do you think is the greatest benefit of entering competitions like this?
Not only does it act as a launchpad for numerous opportunities, but it also provides global recognition. This creates leverage for sponsors, participants, and attendees alike.
7 Is there someone in your team or organization whose efforts played a significant role in this achievement that you'd like to acknowledge?
My co-chair, Liz McGlamery, is instrumental to our event, as we wouldn't have any of the participating restaurants without her. She ensures that everything is in place and that everyone has what they need. Additionally, I want to acknowledge our other co-founder, Dave Larue, for his efforts in securing our beverage partners and sponsorships. Together, these two individuals truly embody the heart and soul of the event.
8 Looking back at your journey, is there any advice you would give your younger self or someone just starting out in your industry?
The learning never stops, and it’s through this mutual exchange of ideas and perspectives that we grow stronger as a team and as a community. Embrace collaboration and remain open to fresh insights, as they often ignite the spark of innovation. As we continue on this journey, remember that every challenge is an opportunity in disguise, and with the right mindset, we can overcome any obstacle. Let's keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, always striving to make a positive impact and create unforgettable experiences for everyone involved.
9 For those who are considering to enter, what advice would you share about crafting a strong submission or maximizing their chances of success?
It appeared that an award for Cows ‘n Cabs was an unlikely achievement due to its global scope. However, by applying, you are showcasing the remarkable work you do and truly deserve to be recognized.
10 What’s next for you or your business after this recognition? Are there any exciting projects, collaborations, or goals that you would like to share?
Our goal is to raise more money for children's charities in Central Florida. We are exploring ways to enhance the guest experience without increasing event costs, allowing us to contribute even more to those in need.
