As if there wasn’t enough happening in town on Dec. 2 (First Friday, WIVK Christmas Parade), the United Way of Greater Knoxville hosted its inaugural Change Awards dinner. It was a sell-out event at The Mill & Mine downtown.
Nonprofits including East Tennessee Children’s Hospital, Muse Knoxville and Volunteer Ministry Center were recognized for their leadership, innovation and collaboration. Judges evaluated more than 60 peer-nominated entrants.
“We have an incredibly vibrant nonprofit community and collaborative culture in the region. Our winning individuals and organizations are driving continuous improvement toward attaining greater quality of life and long-term change for people with all kinds of needs,” said Matt Ryerson, United Way of Greater Knoxville president and CEO.
Phyllis Nichols was named the first entrant into the newly-established Knoxville Nonprofit Hall of Fame. Nichols recently retired from her role as president and CEO of the Knoxville Area Urban League after almost 30 years with the organization. A full list of winners can be found here.
Oops! The event took place on December 2 to mark the 100th anniversary of United Way in Knoxville. Guess this night belongs to United Way.
The awards also featured a performance by Knoxville Poet Laureate Rhea “Sunshine” Carmon, as well as a moment of silence to mark the recent passing of Marble City Opera managing director Brandon Gibson.
Information from website of United Way of Greater Knoxville