HAMLET — The United Way of Richmond County on Wednesday recognized its donors and volunteers in an outdoor ceremony at Richmond Community College’s amphitheater.
UWRC Executive Director Michelle Parrish welcomed the crowd, saying the organization “brings together changemakers throughout our community.”
“Donors and volunteers power our programs every step of the way,” Parrish said. “Their support improves our community’s children and youth, health, and wellness, strengthening and support, and crisis services.”
According to Parrish, UWRC’s partnering agencies— American Red Cross, BackPack Pals, Habitat for Humanity of the N.C. Sandhills, Leak Street Alumni, New Horizon’s Life and Family Services, Our Daily Bread, Pee Dee Pregnancy Resource Center, Richmond County 4-H; Richmond County Rescue Squad, Richmond County Schools Exceptional Children, Salvation Army, Samaritan Colony and Sandhills Children’s Center — were able to serve 14,194 individuals 80,000 times throughout 2023.
So far this year, 6,455 individuals have been served 23,587 times, Parrish said.
Dana Mintnier, Exceptional Children director, expressed gratitude for the United Way’s support.
“Your support has truly made a significant difference in the lives of our exceptional children, their families and our dedicated educators,” Mintnier said. The funds provided by the United Way have been instrumental in enhancing the educational experiences of our children with significant needs in Richmond County Schools.”
Mintnier added that the department has been able to organize field trips that provide hands-on learning and exploration.
“These experiences brighten their horizons, ignite their curiosity and foster a love for learning that extends far beyond the walls of the classroom,” Mintnier continued.
The funding has also enabled the department to equip classrooms with the materials and supplies “necessary to create engaging and dynamic learning environments,” including adaptive technology and specialized teaching aids, according to Mintnier.
Those gathered also heard testimonials from Sandhills Children’s Center and New Horizons.
After passing out the awards to the community donors, Parrish then honored the organization’s volunteers:
- Richmond Senior High School Beta Club, and advisor Suzanne Hudson – Volunteer Youth Group of the Year
- Burlington Industries – Volunteer Group of the Year
- Tracy Parris, Jan Hawkins, Matthew Christian and Justine Seabolt – Allocation Committee Volunteers of the Year
- Katie Mabe, Charity Lammonds, Cynthia Quarrels and Christy Leviner – Rookies of the Year
- Ginny Sellers – Outstanding Volunteer of the Year
- Vagas Jackson – Volunteer of the Year
Last week, the students of East Rockingham Elementary School were presented the “You Made A Difference Appreciation Award,” after each grade level raised money to donate to R.C. Rescue Squad, Our Daily Bread, Sandhills Children’s Center, Leak Street Alumni, BackPack Pals and Richmond County 4-H.
“This is the second time these students have donated to United Way and we truly appreciate each grade level and school administration,” Parrish said.
The United Ways Days of Caring will be Sept. 12-14 this year.
NOTE: This story has been updated to complete a sentence. 3:58 p.m.. 5-9-24
