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Randy Foster/editor@cherokeescout.com Participants line up for supper at the Volunteer Appreciation Dinner on Friday night at The Ballroom in Murphy. -
Cyndi Martin/Contributing Photographer Briles Johnson, executive director of the N.C. Commission on Volunteerism & Community Service, was honored for her outstanding leadership in promoting volunteerism and community service throughout the state
Murphy – Several community service organizations in Cherokee County gathered at The Ballroom downtown Friday for a Volunteer Appreciation Dinner.
This event celebrated the remarkable accomplishments of the county’s 10 community development clubs as well as three local nonprofit organizations that have made a positive impact.
The event, emceed by Mayor Tim Radford, had a jam-packed agenda that highlighted the work carried out by local organizations.
The evening’s special guest, Briles Johnson, executive director of the N.C. Commission on Volunteerism & Community Service, also known as VolunteerNC, was honored for her leadership in promoting volunteerism and community service throughout the state.
Johnson, along with her husband, Barry, made the long journey from Raleigh and delivered Certificates of Appreciation from the Office of the Governor to the 13 organizations being recognized.
Radford, who also serves as a VolunteerNC commissioner, welcomed attendees, expressing his gratitude for the tireless efforts of local volunteers in enhancing the community’s well-being. He emphasized the importance of recognizing their hard work and dedication.
The organizations whose accomplishments were featured at the event include community development clubs from Bellview, Culberson, Grape Creek, Hiwassee Dam, Marble, Martins Creek, Peachtree, Ranger, Texana and Unaka as well as Reach of Cherokee County, the Rotary Club of Murphy and Valley River Humane Society.
Nancy Helms, who was instrumental in organizing the event, received a heartfelt thank you for her dedication and hard work in making the Volunteer Appreciation Dinner a reality.
Also recognized at the event was a long list of sponsors and workers whose generosity made for a perfect evening.
As the event concluded with dessert and social time, attendees left with a renewed sense of community spirit – and a deep appreciation for the contributions of local service organizations and volunteers.
The Volunteer Appreciation Dinner served as a reminder that when individuals and organizations come together to serve their community, incredible achievements become possible. Johnson’s presence, and the recognition of local community heroes, underscored the profound impact of volunteerism and community service in Murphy, and beyond.