Nominations open for ‘Great Friend to Families’ award

The High Country is known for its community outreach, especially to its youngsters and their families.

In an effort to recognize those who go the extra mile to make a difference, the staff and volunteers of The Children’s Playhouse in Boone are once again preparing to recognize “hometown heroes who offer sustained contributions” to the well being of young children and their families in the area, said the organization’s board president, Tara Stollenmaier.

Several of these High Country residents will be honored March 2, as “Helping Hands” and “Helping Hearts;” one of the honorees will receive the overall “Great Friend to Families” award, a piece of local art and $500 to donate to the High Country nonprofit organization of his or her choice.

The celebration luncheon will be held from noon to 2 p.m. at the High Country Homebuilders Association Plaza.

What does it take to be a “hero?”

According to Stollenmaier, “Helping Hands” awards celebrate professionals who, over the course of their careers, have shown extraordinary dedication to improving the lives of children and families.

“‘Helping Hearts’ awards recognize individuals who have touched the lives of children and families through generous philanthropy and/or outstanding volunteerism,” she said.

Children’s Playhouse director Kathy Parham encourages the community to think of that “special someone” who deserves recognition and to nominate that person in the category that best describes the majority of the individual’s contributions.

“We want those making nominations to mention additional volunteerism or paid work which adds to our overall understanding of what makes the person so deserving of recognition,” she said. “Please note the length of time the individual has served families in the High Country and if he or she has worked in more than one capacity, or worked with more than one organization.”

Nominations must include full contact information for the nominee and nominator, and the names and contact information for at least three people who support the nomination.

More information and nomination forms may be accessed online at http://www.goplayhouse.org.
Those without Internet access may stop by The Children’s Playhouse or call Parham at (828) 263-0011 for more information.

Nominations must be submitted by Feb. 15 via email to (kathyparham@gmail.com) or mailed to Great Friend to Families Award Committee, c/o Kathy Parham, The Children’s Playhouse, 400 Tracy Circle. Boone, N.C. 28607.

Award winners will be chosen by a committee of local leaders, including previous award winners, Parham said.

The awards luncheon will be held from noon to 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 2, at the High Country Home Builders Plaza, located at 755 N.C. 105 Bypass in Boone. Tickets are $20, of which $15 is tax-deductible, and may be purchased through the Playhouse website.