On Saturday, a woman in Madison was rewarded for all the good she has accomplished in the community.

Carolyn Dodson received a brand new car from Hiley Mazda. Dodson is just one of 50 people across the country receiving Mazda's Hero Award.

Michael Ponter, general manager of Hiley Mazda Huntsville, said they chose Dodson because of her commitment to community service. 

"Someone who takes the time out of their day to care about and love other individuals and go outside of themselves is something that we all need to take heed of and learn from," Ponter said.

He said this is the first time Mazda decided to do an award like this, and it is to honor those who have gone above and beyond for their community.

Dodson is known for donating food, gift cards and her time to help those in need through her church.

"The homeless or the hungry shouldn't be invisible. They're people. Let's serve them and help them," Dodson said.

As part of the award, Dodson received a 100th anniversary MX-5 Miata.

"I hope that people will just look into themselves. There are people who are hurting, who are hungry, who are one paycheck away from being on the street," Dodson said.

She hopes she can inspire others to give back, especially amid this pandemic.

"If we can learn anything from Ms. Dodson, that any opportunity that we have to give a helping hand to our fellow human being, we should do so," Ponter said.