Seven Corporate Partners and Board Members Honored with Spirit of North Carolina Awards
United Way of North Carolina recognized 34 Spirit of North Carolina Award winners representing six local United Ways on April 9. United Way of Greater Charlotte is proud to recognize seven award winners in multiple categories. Each award celebrates individuals and organizations for their exemplary partnership demonstrated through fundraising and volunteer efforts, outstanding leadership, and creative team building.
“The Spirit of North Carolina Award shines a light on our incredible partners, who are supporting United Way’s work to build thriving neighborhoods and help lift people out of poverty,” said United Way of Greater Charlotte Chief Development Officer Clint Hill. “Congratulations to each winner who has collectively made a lasting impact in the lives of our neighbors.”
Local awards categories include:
United Way Community Ambassador
- Ron Messenger, Grant Thornton
Building a Legacy of Community Engagement through Volunteerism
- Elliott Davis
Impactful and Engaging Campaign Event or Activity
- Little Diversified Architectural Consulting
- GreerWalker
Building Momentum and Sustainability through Engaged Leadership or Employees
- Terrence Smyre, Americhem Inc.
- Randy Souther, Corning Inc.
- Atrium Health Union
Each honoree has modeled a dedication to community service through their fundraising, volunteer, and advocacy efforts.
Ron Messenger earned the United Way Community Ambassador award for his engaged and dedicated leadership on United Way’s Board of Directors over five years. Messenger, who is currently on the Executive Committee, has used his expertise to help diversify United Way’s funding sources. Messenger’s advocacy extends to his role in leading and executing Grant Thornton’s United Way workplace campaign and he is a dedicated member of the Tocqueville Donor Society, exemplifying his growing support for community impact initiatives.
Elliott Davis stood out for its exceptional commitment to community service and volunteerism in and out of the office. The company created Elliott Davis Cares, which is an initiative that provides each team member with opportunities for community service aligned with their skills and interests. Team members at all levels have embraced this initiative, willingly contributing their time, talents and resources to enhance the well-being of the communities. Elliott Davis embraces its passion for helping others through a hands-on approach and its enduring spirit of caring.
Each winner was recognized at the Spirit of North Carolina Awards ceremony on Tuesday, April 9 at the Charles Mack Citizen Center in Mooresville.