Giving back! Nida commits to helping neighbors in need

When disaster strikes in Southwest Virginia, UVA Wise alumnus Micah Nida is there with hot, freshly cooked meals and a desire to serve.

Nida, owner of The Cluck Truck, has been providing free meals to flood and storm victims since Tropical Storm Helene hit in September. He has served residents during power outages in Wise County and traveled to Damascus, Hurley, and most recently Dante, demonstrating his commitment to helping neighbors in need.

“I’ve always felt led to give back to this community,” Nida said. “This region has given so much to my business, and I believe it’s our responsibility to care for one another during hard times. For me, that starts with a fresh meal.”

Nida launched The Cluck Truck in July 2022, and with strong community support, his business is expanding. He plans to launch a second trailer next month, the first step in building a regional chain of food trucks.

He attributes his approach to service partly to his time at UVA Wise, where philosophy and ethics courses taught by Associate Professor Anthony Cashio helped refine his moral compass.

Micah’s story exemplifies how UVA Wise graduates continue to serve and uplift the region that shaped them.