United Way of Gaston County recognizes three with Spirit of North Carolina award

Staff reports
·2 min read

The United Way of Gaston County announced today that several local community members and the school district have been awarded the 2022 Spirit of North Carolina Award.

The three organizations recognized include The Book Club, Barbara Yarborough, and Gaston County Schools.  They each have modeled a dedication to community service through their fundraising, volunteer, and advocacy efforts.

From left to right, Valerie Yatko, Barbara Yarbrough, Barbara Moskowitz and Jane Pearson were recently honored with Spirit of North Carolina awards from Gaston County United Way.
From left to right, Valerie Yatko, Barbara Yarbrough, Barbara Moskowitz and Jane Pearson were recently honored with Spirit of North Carolina awards from Gaston County United Way.

United Way of North Carolina’s annual Spirit of North Carolina Award celebrates organizations for their exemplary partnership demonstrated through fundraising and volunteer efforts, outstanding leadership, and creative team building.  Additionally, organizations focusing on equity values and individuals who are champions of United Way are also celebrated.

Over three days (March 1-3), United Way of North Carolina recognized 74 winners representing 17 local United Ways at three regional events.  The regional ceremony for the Charlotte area was held in Mooresville on March 1 at the Charles Mack Citizen Center.

“The Spirit of North Carolina Award shines a light on our incredible partners, who are supporting the United Way’s work and helping us achieve our goals,” said Andrea Stephens, president.  “Congratulations to all the winners who have collectively made a huge impact in the lives of our neighbors across the state.”

The individual and organizations were honored in the following award categories:

  • The Book Club: Investment in Long-Term Sustainable Impact

Members of The Book Club attending to accept the award were Jane Pearson and Barbara Moskowitz

  • Gaston County Schools:  Building Momentum and Sustainability Through Engaged Leadership or Employees

Members of Gaston County Schools attending to accept the award were Valerie Yatko and Todd Hagans.

  • Barbara Yarbrough:  United Way Community Ambassador.

For more information about the Spirit of North Carolina Award and a complete list of winners, visit unitedwaync.org/spirit-north-carolina-award-winners.

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The mission of the United Way of Gaston County is to unite our community to help and care for one another. 

About the Spirit of North Carolina Award

The Spirit of North Carolina Award offers United Ways in NC communities an opportunity to honor organizations whose United Way campaigns exemplify the “spirit” of their community. United Way of North Carolina leads the award nomination and judging process and presents the award annually. 

This article originally appeared on The Gaston Gazette: Gaston County United Way recognizes 3 with Spirit of North Carolina