North Carolina School Custodians Receive Philanthropy Award

School custodians across the country have been working tirelessly during the coronavirus pandemic to keep school buildings safe and clean for students and staff. The hard work of 130 permanent, part-time, and temporary school custodians in Wilkes County, North Carolina, hasn’t gone unnoticed.

Wilkes Community Foundation board of advisors recently announced in a press release that Wilkes County Schools custodial staff are the recipients of its 2020 Philanthropist of the Year Award, according to Wilkes Journal-Patriot. The annual award honors those who give back to the community.

Charlie White, board president of the Wilkes Community Foundation, told Wilkes Journal-Patriot, “We are honored to recognize Wilkes County Schools’ custodial staff for their efforts this year to keep our children safe. In a year like this, we celebrate the spirit of service by recognizing those who give of themselves out of love for their community.”

Dr. Westley Wood, assistant superintendent, personnel and human resources for Wilkes County Schools, told Wilkes Journal-Patriot the custodial staff was “elated” to be selected. “It’s a morale boost for all the stress and overtime they have been experiencing,” he said.

In addition, Wilkes Community Foundation and McNeill Chevrolet will make a $1,500 grant to Wilkes County Schools—designated for school-based custodial staff.