Wilson Community Outreach

They provide a wide variety of programs that support families and individuals in need. Their Back to School give away provided essential supplies for more than 100 children. Their Walk a Thon has provided awareness and inclusion of children with special needs. The nomination letter shared, " The unwavering commitment of Wilson Community Outreach to uplift the community through education, meeting basic needs with inclusive initiative. They exemplify the power of collaboration and compassion that can make a true difference in the community."

 Denning Mitchell 

In the Adult Volunteer category, Denning has been a loyal volunteer and member of Total Impact Ministries for more than 35 years he plays a critical role in executing food drives and charitable events. At Sallie B. Howard, he mentors students and assists with classroom activities. His nomination letters states, " What stands out most about Mr. Mitchell is his tireless work ethic and his deep sense of compassion. His life experiences, including his service as a veteran, have shaped his perspective and ability to relate to those in need. 

 Eli Kicklighter

In the Youth volunteer category, Eli volunteers with the Rock Ridge 4-H Club, summer camps and Springfield Middle School. He does a quarterly roadside clean up, planting flowers, improving signage, and a variety of activities where students demonstrate pride in school. He mentors children and help them succeed in program activities as a 4-H Leader. Eli also organized a supply drive at Springfield Middle school after damage due to a tornado. His nomination letter stated, " Eli's dedication to his community, his outstanding leadership and his ability to inspire and uplift others makes him truly deserving of recognition. Despite his busy schedule, he remains fully dedicated to serving others and always finds a way to mentor younger kids. He exemplifies what it means to be a servant leader."

Sharon High-Jones 

In the Educator of the Year category, Sharon is an Exceptional Children's teacher at Fike High School. She served at the Eastern NC School for the Deaf, Wells Elementary, Forest Hills Middle, and More at Four Preschool. Her service extends beyond the classroom as she helped with various programs, including organizing an indoor yard sale for her students to raise money to purchase toys for Christmas. She encourages her students to volunteer and can often be found at various events supporting her students.  Her nomination letter states, "She pushes her students to become well rounded persons. She always instills in them that they should not allow their differences in abilities to shadow the qualities they possess - as that makes them the unique individuals they are."

 Jackson Robol

In the Advocate of the Year category, Jackson hosts a podcast where he talks about life's challenges and interviews a wide variety of people. He is an employee of Whirli-Dogs Cafe. "Jackson does not hide his autism and through his interactions, he advocates for better understanding in the community. He has demonstrated, with his podcast, that one can overcome challenges. He is an inspiration to others," his nomination letter states. 

R & L Carriers

In the Employer of the Year category, R & L Carriers  show true dedication in working with persons with disabilities. They continue to partner with Vocational Rehabilitation to recruit applicants with disabilities and build a prosperous community. Their nomination letters said, "R&L hired an employee with a learning disability who was trained to drive a forklift. He was successful in his role for many years. The employee detached his retina which caused reduced visibility. The R&L team did not lay him off but worked to find another position and allowed him to continue to work. This is an outstanding example of how an employer with the willingness to accommodate, can hire and keep great team members.