Albemarle Area United Way honoring Jim & Katie Owens Keel Club Philanthropy Award
- Albemarle Area United Way
- Sep 4
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 8
Elizabeth City, NC – On Thursday, October 30th, the Albemarle Area United Way will gather to celebrate with our community. The Board of Directors are pleased to host a dinner award program to honor Jim & Katie Owens, who epitomizes the definition of philanthropy, which is love of humankind.
“We consider it a privilege to honor Jim & Katie with our sixth Keel Club Philanthropy Award. They have quietly given substantial dollars, donated time, and leveraged talent to benefit many in our community,” said Bill Blake, Executive Director for the nine-county regional United Way. “Jim & Katie exemplify the meaning of servant leadership.” Blake added.
Jim Owens is the retired CEO/Chairman Emeritus of Caterpillar Inc., a global manufacturer of heavy construction and mining equipment. He grew up in Elizabeth City, and graduated from NC State, so despite traveling the world, North Carolina, especially Northeast NC, holds a special place in his heart.
The Keel Club has significant meaning as a coastal community. The keel of a ship is the main timber of the ship’s bottom that extends from bow to stern and supports the whole frame. The keel is designed carefully and prepared through the efforts of many people working together for a common purpose. United Way is stronger because of these generous leadership donors.
“Please join us for an evening of celebration and recognition of this wonderful couple who are living examples of United Way’s mission and was the cornerstone to the launch of our AAUW Tocqueville Society,” stated Bryan L. Spence, the Albemarle Area United Way Board Chair.
The Tocqueville Society, named for the French Author Alexis de Tocqueville, a 19th century diplomat who applauded the American desire to take a personal role in the advancement of society by combining philanthropy and service.
Join us on October 30th at 5:30 pm at the Seven Sounds Brewing in their historic building on Water Street in Elizabeth City. The evening will include a cocktail reception, musical entertainment, and dinner catered by Cypress Creek. Corporate tables and sponsorships are available. Individual tickets are $75 and can be purchased online at aaunitedway.org, by calling 252-333-1510, or by visiting the AAUW office at 1413 Parkview Drive, Elizabeth City.
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Albemarle Area United Way is a not-for-profit organization that mobilizes communities to action so all can thrive. For more information on how you can give or to volunteer please call us at 252-333-1510 or visit our website at aaunitedway.org.