Saluting the Unsung Heroes of Asheville
Asheville, N.C. – On Tuesday, September 10, a charming celebration took place at the fifth annual Salute to WNC Heroes, organized by the American Red Cross. The event was all about honoring the local heroes who have dedicated themselves to improving the community. It was an evening filled with heartwarming stories, emotional speeches, and, most importantly, recognition of those special individuals who make a difference in the lives of others.
A Community Celebration
The festivities were emceed by the popular Chief Meteorologist, Jason Boyer, who kept the audience entertained and engaged throughout the night. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, as friends, family, and supporters gathered to cheer on the amazing honorees. This year, the community nominated seven outstanding individuals and two incredible groups for their remarkable contributions, and it was evident that each honoree had a special story to tell.
Highlighting Personal Journeys
Among the honorees was Philip Cooper, the Executive Director of Operation Gateway. His journey of transformation is nothing short of inspiring. Having once experienced incarceration himself, Cooper expressed that receiving this hero award alongside the Asheville Police Department signifies the critical nature of the work being done. “Over 95 percent of people in prison will eventually be released,” he remarked. “It could be your neighbor. So, it’s essential for us to ensure that their reintegration process into society is as smooth as possible.”
Cooper’s message resonated with the audience, highlighting the importance of supporting those who seek to become law-abiding citizens and engage positively in the community. His passion for helping others was palpable, making it clear why he was honored on this special evening.
Quick Thinkers, Lifelong Impact
Another duo recognized during the event was Andrew Young and Phillip West, electricians from MB HAYNES. Their swift reaction and CPR training saved a man’s life in a moment of crisis. Young shared, “It can happen any day to any of us. None of us are promised tomorrow, but CPR training definitely helped us out for sure.” Their bravery stood as a reminder that anyone can be a hero when they are prepared to act in emergencies.
Recognizing Diverse Contributions
The honorees included a diverse range of individuals, each contributing uniquely to the community’s well-being:
- Blood Services Hero: Mary McCoyle
- Community Impact Hero: Kenny Capps
- Corporate Impact Hero: Bill Jones
- Disaster Services Hero: Jesse Boeckermann
- First Responder Hero: Asheville Police Department
- Good Samaritan Heroes: Phillip West and Andrew Young
- Health Professional Heroes: Mission Hospital Stroke Team
Each recipient’s dedication and exceptional service spoke volumes about the power of community and the impact of ordinary people stepping up in times of need.
Building a Better Future Together
The evening culminated in an overwhelming sense of gratitude and inspiration. The stories shared not only celebrated individual accomplishments but also served to strengthen community bonds. Honoring these heroes emphasizes the collective responsibility we all share in looking out for one another.
As Asheville continues to nurture its compassionate spirit, events like the Salute to WNC Heroes remind us that heroes are often found in the everyday people around us—those who are committed to making a difference, one action at a time. The warmth of the community shone brightly that night, a brilliant testament to the hard work and heart of Asheville.
As we reflect on the stories of these remarkable individuals, let us all strive to contribute positively to our communities and perhaps start our own journey toward becoming someone’s hero.
