AAUW the honorees of our Keel Club Philanthropy Award James & Kathrine Owens

At the 5th Annual Keel Club Philanthropy Awards on November 21, 2024, Albemarle Area United Way honored Andy and Karin Montero for their exceptional dedication to the community. Held at Seven Sounds Brewing in Elizabeth City, the event celebrated the couple’s lasting impact and commitment to service. As Andy shared, “Never undervalue the impact you can make by simply doing what you can.”

Albemarle Area United Way hosted its inaugural Keel Club Philanthropy Awards Dinner on November 7, honoring Bruce and Anna Biggs for their exceptional generosity and commitment to the community. Held at the Carolina Center, the evening also featured the presentation of the Order of the Long Leaf Pine—the highest civilian honor in North Carolina—to Bruce Biggs in recognition of his outstanding service and leadership.

Albemarle Area United Way is on track for a strong 2017–18 campaign, having raised more than $221,000—81% of its fundraising goal—with months still remaining. During a Keel Club celebration, Executive Director Bill Blake highlighted the growing impact of donor support, the expansion of the Keel Club, and the vital role United Way plays in helping local families through partner agencies and community programs.

Albemarle Area United Way celebrated the growth of its Keel Club leadership donors while announcing Bill Blake as its permanent Executive Director. Since joining the organization, Blake has helped expand donor engagement, launch new initiatives such as Small Business United, and introduce the Bocce, Beer & Bites fundraising event. The celebration recognized the power of community leadership and the positive momentum driving United Way’s mission across northeastern North Carol