Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore hosts annual meeting and awards
SALISBURY, Md. – The Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore held their annual meeting where they honored members of the community who’s hard work and selflessness made a special impact.
Erica Joseph is the president of the organization, and explained the importance of showcasing the involved members.
“Our annual meeting is really the highlight, a culmination of our year of impact, and that’s really all driven because of the people in the community that come together in ways big and small.” Said Joseph.
Hugh Livingston won the Frank H. Morris Humanitarian Award for his lifelong commitment to community service. Livingston’s service included work with the Fruitland Community Center, Wor-Wic Community College, Boy Scouts of America, the Red Cross, and many other organizations.
Livingston told WMDT that “it’s better to give than receive.”
Audra Phippin leads the therapy dog program at Behind the Lines inc., and was this years recipient of the Mary Gladys Jones Volunteer of the Year Award. Phippin was beyond humbled to win the award, however, she finds the greatest reward in her work.
“Just the look on peoples faces when we enter the room and the joy that it brings.” Said Phippin. “That has no pressure to it whatsoever. People get to melt and their walls come down when you bring a dog in.”
The Chairman’s Award was presented to Sonya Whited, the founder of the Black Excellence Community Fund. The award honored her dedicated leadership and ongoing generosity.
This years Richard A. Henson Non-Profit Excellence Award was given to the Epoch Dream Center, recognizing their continued work shaping young lives in the community. JoAnn Blackmon is the executive director for the center, and spoke on the importance of the work they accomplish.
“When you love well people begin to feel their own worth and then they start to live in their worth.” Said Blackmon. “And it’s just a gift to see. It’s a gift to experience and to be a part of.”
For more information on the Communtity Foundation of the Eastern Shore, or the non-profits they support, visit their website.
