Murphy – “If you don’t worry about who gets the credit, you can get a lot accomplished,” Terri Wells of the WNC Communities & Agricultural Programs told a crowded room full of community development club leaders.
Cherokee County resident and noteworthy volunteer Nancy Helms lives by Wells’ creed. It was the work of Helms, treasurer of the Grape Creek Community Development Club, behind the scenes that brought together the Community Development Club all-county assembly on June 20.
“As far as I can remember, this is the first time since 1974 that we’ve all gathered together,” she said.
Club members from across the county gathered to share resources, build relationships and receive $150 from a Bridge Foundation Now grant. Helms was the force behind the award.
“I applied for the $2,300 grant for the clubs, and less than three weeks later they sent me the check,” she said. Helms divided the money among the clubs, using the remainder to pay for the luncheon at Downtown Pizza.
Mayor Tim Radford, flexing his muscle as Gov. Roy Cooper’s appointment to the N.C. Commission on Volunteerism & Community Service, presented the awards to each club. After officially declaring June 20 as “Community Day,” he welcomed the community leaders by saying, “Today is about recognizing your great work in our community, and connecting folks to more resources for even greater success.”
A dozen or so people representing those resources were in attendance. Leslie Ledford, Cherokee County Schools’ director of accountability and digital teaching & learning, offered help to clubs who lack broadband internet access. And Jessica Ward, manager of the Murphy Walmart store, received high praise for her zealous commitment to donations for the community.
Susan Garret, community programs coordinator for WNC Communities, spoke of the robust scholarship program the organization sponsors.
“Two of the keys to a stronger community,” she said, “are a commitment to the social fabric and economic vitality.”
Garret said Cherokee County Community Development Clubs not only serve their communities, but also foster economic development by renting out their buildings for private events.
“I came here today because I was invited,” Texana Community Development Club assistant secretary Brenda Blount said with a laugh. “I enjoy interacting and networking.”
Blount’s sentiments were echoed through the energetic hall, as club members met one another and shared stories or ideas from their own clubs. Radford offered an apt summation.
“Cherokee County is blessed to have amazing community development clubs, volunteers and community partners,” he said, “who provide opportunities for active living and recreation in a safe, inclusive environment.”