Asheville Honors Community Leaders at People of Action Gala

News Summary

The Rotary Club of Asheville held its second annual People of Action Gala on March 6, celebrating seven remarkable individuals for their contributions to the community. The event raised over $400,000 for various local initiatives, including storm relief efforts and educational scholarships. With a focus on service and collaboration, the gala emphasized the importance of community support and recognized local heroes in education and public service.

Asheville Celebrates Community Excellence at the People of Action Gala

Asheville was buzzing with excitement on March 6 as the Rotary Club of Asheville hosted its much-anticipated second annual People of Action Gala at the elegant Renaissance Hotel. This vibrant gathering brought together community members, local leaders, and supporters to honor those who have made significant strides in bettering the lives of others.

A Night of Recognition

The gala highlighted the hard work and dedication of seven outstanding individuals whose efforts resonate with the Rotary mission of “service above self.” Each awardee was celebrated for their unwavering commitment to community service, demonstrating the kind of selflessness that inspires change.

Selecting the honorees was no easy task, but the choices celebrated a diverse range of contributions across Rotary International’s Seven Areas of Focus. These leaders were not only recognized for personal achievements but also for their collaborative spirit, working hand-in-hand with various organizations to amplify their impact.

Meet the Honorees

The list of distinguished awardees reads like a who’s who of community champions:

• Dr. Oralene Simmons: Her relentless efforts in civil rights have made her a beacon of hope, aligning perfectly with peacebuilding and conflict resolution.
• Lang Hornthall: Known for his environmental advocacy, he’s been instrumental in protecting and restoring the beautiful Southern Appalachian Forests.
• Dr. Shannon Dowler: A leader in public health initiatives, her work focusing on disease prevention and treatment has saved countless lives.
• Dr. Amy Maietta: This gifted doctor has made remarkable strides in promoting Maternal and Child Health, ensuring healthier futures for families.
• Marta Alcalá: An advocate for basic education, literacy, and racial justice, she works tirelessly towards achieving educational equity in the community.
• Jeffrey Kaplan: His efforts to support entrepreneurs have unlocked new pathways for economic and community development.

Additionally, the Water Resource Department of the City of Asheville earned accolades for their collaborative initiatives aimed at restoring the water infrastructure damaged by storm Helene. This recognition added to the evening’s spirit of teamwork and unity.

Supporting Community Initiatives

Beyond honoring individuals, the gala aimed at raising crucial funds for various Rotary initiatives designed to uplift the community. The generosity of attendees was overwhelming, with the club raising more than $400,000 from supporters across 41 states. This impressive amount will go toward storm relief efforts and various community projects that are essential for the ongoing recovery and development of Asheville.

The Rotary Club also took this opportunity to reward local excellence. Eight dedicated public school teachers were awarded prestigious titles, and first responders were recognized for their heroic efforts. In a wonderful gesture of support for future generations, the club awarded $72,000 in scholarships to local students, paving the way for continued education and success.

Looking Ahead

As the Rotary Club of Asheville approaches its 111th year, members are eager to explore new avenues for community recovery and support initiatives. Their commitment shines through collaborations, such as with organizations like Black Wall Street AVL, focusing on inclusivity and empowerment within the community.

The People of Action Gala not only celebrated the achievements of exemplary individuals but also served as a vibrant reminder of the strength found in community. With unwavering dedication to service and collaboration, the Rotary Club continues to foster leadership and growth throughout Asheville and Buncombe County.

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Additional Resources

• Trib Papers: Rotary Club of Asheville Celebrates Community Leaders at Annual Gala
• Wikipedia: Service Above Self
• Trib Papers: People of Action Honoring Eight Asheville Heroes
• Google Search: Rotary Club of Asheville
• Wikipedia: Community Service