United Way of Iredell County Celebrates Volunteers and Community Impact at Annual Awards Event 

Statesville, NC (April 24th, 2026) — United Way of Iredell County brought the community together for one of its most meaningful evenings of the year, celebrating the extraordinary impact of local volunteers during its annual volunteer recognition event. The evening honored individuals and groups whose service continues to strengthen Iredell County through compassion, dedication, and a shared commitment to helping others. 

From supporting families in crisis and mentoring youth to building homes, feeding neighbors, and advancing mental health initiatives, volunteers across Iredell County were recognized for creating lasting change. Their collective efforts demonstrate the true “Power of We,” inspiring others and building a stronger, more connected community. 

A highlight of the evening was the recognition of Mike Davidson, recipient of the 2025 North Carolina Governor’s Medallion Award, who opened the program and embodied the spirit of service celebrated throughout the event. 

Honoring Local Volunteer Excellence 

United Way recognized an outstanding group of community volunteers for their dedication and impact, including: 

  • Mark Anderson, Children’s Hope Alliance 
  • Lynn Bruschi, Rescue Ranch & Meals on Wheels 
  • Aubrey Campbell, The Christian Mission 
  • Diana Dagenhart, American Red Cross 
  • Rob Harris, Restoration Road 
  • Brian and Tina Hatch, The Salvation Army of Iredell County 
  • Jenniffer Jamison, Crosby Scholars Iredell County 
  • Margaret Johnson, Special Olympics Iredell County 
  • Jeff Medlin, Purple Heart Homes 
  • Elizabeth Morgan, The Salvation Army of Iredell County 
  • Wayne Mowery, Habitat for Humanity ReStore 
  • Althea Nelson, Habitat for Humanity ReStore 
  • Boen Nutting, Be Well Iredell 
  • Carol Ruxton, Rescue Ranch 
  • Carol Schartner, FeedNC 
  • Susan Stroud, Special Olympics Iredell County 
  • National Charity League Lake Norman Chapter, Bridge of Hearts 
  • Nadine Winter & Laurie Dishman, Fifth Street Ministries 
  • Ron & Marilyn Boardman, Food for Days 
  • Habitat Northern Volunteer Crew, Habitat for Humanity 

Each honoree represents the far-reaching impact of volunteerism, with contributions spanning thousands of hours and countless lives touched. 

Governor’s Volunteer Service Awards 

United Way also recognized the 2026 Iredell County recipients of the Governor’s Volunteer Service Award, a prestigious statewide honor recognizing exceptional dedication to community service: 

  • Ken Civelli 
  • Dennis Cowardin 
  • Isabella DiFiore 
  • Teresa Kutteh 
  • Pamela Navey 

Pamela Navey was selected as Iredell County’s nominee for the Governor’s Volunteer Service Medallion Award, one of the highest volunteer honors in North Carolina. Her lifetime of service—supporting victims, strengthening partnerships, and responding to community needs at all hours—has made an immeasurable impact across the region. 

Introducing the Ripple of Impact Awards 

This year, United Way introduced the Ripple of Impact Service Awards, celebrating how acts of service create lasting and expanding change throughout the community. 

  • Ripple of Impact: Youth in Motion Award was presented to Isabella DiFiore, founder of Bella’s Backpacks. At just 16 years old, Isabella has created a nonprofit that provides comfort and essential items to children experiencing trauma, while also leading awareness and disaster response efforts. 
  • Ripple of Impact: Lifetime Service Award was awarded to Teresa Kutteh, honoring decades of service in education, community organizations, and direct support to individuals and families. Her lifelong commitment to helping others continues to inspire generations. 

A Community Built on Service 

“Tonight, we celebrated more than individual achievements—we celebrated the collective impact of a community that shows up for one another,” said United Way leadership. “Every act of service creates a ripple, and together those ripples become waves that strengthen Iredell County.” 

The event concluded with a message of gratitude to volunteers, partners, and community leaders whose continued support makes this work possible.