“Love cannot remain by itself – it has no meaning. Love has to be put into action, and that action is service.” – Mother Teresa.
Murphy – A special time was set aside on Oct. 19 at The Ballroom to honor some generous folks for all they do to help others.
Mayor Tim Radford opened the Volunteer Appreciation Ceremony followed by a prayer for the victims of Hurricane Helene. The event included a presentation by Chief Al Lovingood of Murphy Fire Department on the importance of volunteering, as well as a dinner and awards ceremony.
The recognized recipients included individuals and organizations that have stood out for their time and dedication in service to their community. Each recipient has given far more than their following highlights.
- Andrews Lions Club volunteers work on many community projects, such as taking care of the environment, feeding the hungry and assisting seniors and the disabled. They are well known for helping fight blindness through vision screenings.
- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cherokee County makes meaningful matches between adults and children. They help develop positive relationships that have long-term effects in the lives of young folks in Cherokee County.
- Grape Creek Community Development Club supports initiatives like the Cart Fund and Shop with a Cop. They address vital infrastructure issues and provide food for those in need. They also help with a variety of other projects, including cleaning up parks and playgrounds as well as planting trees.
- Grape Creek Extension & Community Association has contributed to the community by making bibs and other cancer-related supplies, worked with the elderly in nursing homes, held dinners for veterans and made pillow-case dresses for missionaries.
- High Lonesome Therapeutic Equestrian Center in Ogreeta utilizes horseback riding to assist the needs of their clients with disabilities. Instructors and volunteers use specifically trained horses and ponies to gain a wide variety of benefits for the riders including strength, coordination, balance and self-confidence.
- Hiwassee Dam MANNA food distribution team offers food assistance to those in need. In 2023, it distributed 44,789 pounds of food to 1,442 families and 3,595 individuals. Seventeen core volunteers assist with bagging and delivering food to the vehicles in line as well as taking food to the homebound.
- Commissioner Jan Griggs embodies a life of service to her fellow man as well as her community. Griggs has served her country as a Marine and currently serves as a county commissioner. Much of her time is spent attending events, volunteering and helping others wherever needed.
- Logan’s Run Rescue serves the tri-state area. They are dedicated to reducing pet overpopulation by providing low-cost spay and neuter services. They rescue abandoned and stray animals, making sure each one receives the necessary care and finds a forever home.
- Marcil Hurt of Peachtree has dedicated her time and talents to others for more than 50 years and was recently awarded the Governor’s Medallion Award for Volunteer Service. She has strengthened her community with her many hours of service and kindness to others.
- Martins Creek Community Club volunteers created a community building that’s inviting and welcoming. They offer a variety of events and activities and their initiatives have included bingo nights and gospel singing. They have fostered social connections, raised money for the community and provided a space where people can celebrate their faith.
- Moore House Ministry, a faith-based community organization, uses like-minded volunteers to complete projects such as donating Thanksgiving meals during the holidays.
- Peachtree Community Club presents the community with a wide variety of events that are fun, informative and helpful. They offer a venue for hosting parties, celebrations, classes and fundraising as well as assisting others where needed.
- Reach of Cherokee & Graham Counties is dedicated to ending domestic violence as well as sexual assault by providing a wide range of services. They help with the needs of the homeless, provide food and clothing within the community, plus offer crisis intervention, education and outreach programs. Reach also helps find housing for their clients and offers needed items to seniors.
- Rotary Club of Murphy provides scholarships to local students, hosts community meals and raises awareness for Alzheimer’s research. They also support veterans and international projects, like Wells for Nora.
- Texana Community Development Club participates in volunteer work, recognizes local veterans and works with John C. Campbell Folk School in Brasstown to offer traditional arts and crafts opportunities. They enhance the community with a variety of initiatives that promote accessibility and education as well as volunteerism.
- Unaka Community Club senior center supports local seniors through nutrition programs and social activities. They address community issues like public safety and broadband access. They also collaborate with partners to distribute donated food so residents have access to nutritious meals and bring youth together by offering youth nights.
There were a few recipients unable to attend the Volunteer Appreciation Ceremony, including Bellview Community Club, Cherokee County Master Gardeners and the Valley River Humane Society, all which have dedicated many hours of their time, help and resources to their community.
In closing, Radford thanked with gratitude the many volunteers who have tirelessly given of their time to help the victims of Hurricane Helene. He also thanked those who worked hard in the planning and setup of the event.
“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” – Winston Churchill.