The Rob and Ginger Cranford Community Service Award, sponsored by Morrow Insurance Agency, is given each year in memory of the Cranfords who were passionate about giving back to their community.
It recognizes Henderson County residents who support United Way of Henderson County, as well as other local nonprofit organizations, leaving a legacy of service to the wider community. This year’s Cranford Award recipients are Donna and Sandy Hastie.
The Hasties retired to Flat Rock after extensive careers in nuclear power operations and technology. Since their move to Henderson County, they have been actively involved in numerous volunteer and community service activities. Donna has served on the boards of United Way, the Hendersonville Symphony Orchestra, and Interfaith Assistance Ministries. She currently is on the board at the WNC Bridge Foundation. Sandy served as president of the Hendersonville Symphony League, and with Donna, helped create the Boys and Girls Club annual holiday gifting event. He also served as an Agriculture Extension Service Master Gardener, and he and Donna have given many hours of time working in the flower beds at the Flat Rock Playhouse.
Sherri Holbert, Chair of the Board of Directors, noted that the United Way Board was enthusiastic in voting to present the Hasties with the prestigious Cranford Award, as they wished to acknowledge the couple’s lasting legacy to the community. “Donna and Sandy are passionate, hands-on philanthropic leaders who have made Henderson County a better place through their community service. We are deeply grateful for their leadership and servant hearts!”
The Edward C. Brisley, Jr. Award is named for a beloved former Executive Director of United Way of Henderson County, and is presented for outstanding volunteer service. This year’s Brisley Award honors Pauline Carpenter. Carpenter serves on the Women United Executive Committee and Rising Leaders Committee and also volunteered on one of United Way’s Program Evaluation Panels where she was involved in reviewing funding applications from local Henderson County nonprofit agencies.
“Pauline’s perceptive questions and well-considered input during our funding process was evidence of her deep appreciation for the work of our local nonprofits,” said Denise Cumbee
Long, Executive Director. “She has been a tireless, dedicated, and always humble leader in her volunteer service with United Way, and we have been incredibly fortunate to have her share her time and talent with us.”
Visit the United Way of Henderson County website for additional information.