The North Carolina Governor’s Medallion Award for Volunteer Service honors the spirit of volunteerism by recognizing individuals, groups, and businesses that make a significant contribution to their community through volunteer service. Recipients are nominated at the county level by a designated award coordinator – with only one nomination permitted per county – and assessed by a statewide panel to determine the honorees. The Governor’s Volunteer Service Award honors people who have shown concern and compassion for their neighbors by making a significant contribution to their community through volunteer service. The award was created in the Office of the Governor in 1979.

Project Not Forgotten, Inc.

Project Not Forgotten, Inc. received the prestigious NC Governor’s Medallion Award on behalf of the North Carolina Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service. During the pandemic nursing homes were closed to visitors and families.  Jeffery Surles, a local florist, became concerned that residents would become lonely and depressed.  He reached out to a few friends to assist with creating and delivering flowers to nursing home residents. Over one hundred volunteers help brighten the lives of nursing home residents.  Six times a year they deliver arrangements to twenty-five facilities in five counties serving over 1700 residents.

William “Bill” Turner and Lynda Turner

William “Bill” Turner and Lynda Turner worked as a team to provide hot meals to seniors in the Dunn area during the pandemic.  They also played a significant role in making sure that needed supplies were delivered promptly during this critical time.  Without their dedication and support many seniors would have gone without needed assistance. 

Chief Ricky Blackmon

Chief Ricky Blackmon, who has served with the Erwin Fire and Rescue, as a firefighter/EMT for 40 years. He has led during numerous hurricanes and emergencies to include the COVID-19 pandemic.  Chief Blackmon volunteers his time to manage a paid staff and all the volunteers within Erwin Fire and Rescue.