Watauga County Community Foundation announces 2024 Spirit of Philanthropy and Community Inspiration Award
For the past 17 years, the Watauga County Community Foundation (WCCF), an affiliate of the North Carolina Community Foundation, has hosted an event to recognize an individual or group that exemplifies the spirit of philanthropy by giving to our community and making it a better place. Like many organizations, WCCF cancelled the 2024 November event in response to Hurricane Helene and the recovery efforts that were still ongoing in the community. The WCCF Advisory Board postponed the presentation of the awards to their meeting on February 11, 2025.
The Spirit of Philanthropy Award was presented to Watauga Opportunities.
For the past 50 years Watauga Opportunities has offered pre-vocational, employment and community opportunities to the people of Western North Carolina. Though their mission has evolved, they consistently provide high-quality services and guidance to people with developmental disabilities who face vocational challenges.
President and CEO of Watauga Opportunities Michael Maybee accepted the award on behalf of the organization’s staff and board of directors. He thanked WCCF for recognizing the important role that Watauga Opportunities plays within our community and 17 other counties.
The WCCF advisory board was also honored to present a Community Inspiration Award to Matt Vincent. The award recognizes the outstanding contributions made by members of the community whose efforts have made a positive difference in the community and have inspired others.
Matt Vincent is the project specialist for VPC Builders, a local commercial and residential custom builder in the High Country. He has a leadership role with several area organizations including the Appalachian Theatre, the Watauga TDA, the Watauga County Planning Board and the Watauga Medical Center. His contributions and efforts with area nonprofits have made a positive difference in our community and inspired and motivated others.
The Watauga County Community Foundation is an affiliate of the North Carolina Community Foundation. WCCF was founded in 1993 and has grown to include 45 Endowment Funds. These Endowment Funds and Scholarship Funds have total assets of over $9 million and made grants and scholarships exceeding $800,000 in the past 12 months. For more information, visit nccommunityfoundation.org/Watauga.
About the North Carolina Community Foundation
The North Carolina Community Foundation brings together generous people and connects them to causes and organizations they care about, with a focus on inspiring lasting and meaningful philanthropy in the state’s rural communities.
With $460 million in assets, NCCF sustains nearly 1,300 endowments and partners with donors and a network of affiliates in 60 counties to strengthen our state. By stewarding and growing donors’ gifts, NCCF makes a powerful impact through a robust grants and scholarships program, awarding over $300 million since 1988.
Media Contact
Brian Crutchfield, WCCF Advisory Board Member