Catholic Charities West Virginia (CCWVa) announced the recipients of its 2024 Charity in Action Award in Huntington: Carol Bailey, Rory Chapman, and Teresa and Jim Jeffrey.
“Our Charity in Action Award honors charitable persons and groups for their devotion to the service of others,” stated CCWVa President & CEO, Mark Phillips. “Our honorees have shown the power that radical love for our neighbors can have in creating a more just and compassionate society for all.”
Honoree, Carol Bailey, has worked at a number of local non-profit organizations, including Time Out Youth Shelter, Prestera Center, Green Acres Regional Center, Huntington Museum of Art, and United Way of the River Cities. “I’m humbled and honored to have been selected for this recognition,” stated Carol Bailey. “This is an organization that walks the walk, doing an awful lot of good, meaningful work, often “below the radar” of most folks. I’ve witnessed firsthand the dedication of their employees to helping meet the varied needs of many in our community.”
Carol has also volunteered in elementary school classrooms and PTAs, led children on tours at the Huntington Museum of Art, and served the Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program.
Honoree, Rory Chapman, is a pastor, Huntington native, and the Director of FaithHealth Appalachia with the Marshall Health Network. Rory has a passion for providing service to others, promoting the ability of faith communities to help those in need. “To say I’m honored is a grave understatement,” stated Rory Chapman.
Honorees Jim and Teresa “Terry” Jeffrey are devoted parents and pillars of their community, and are the compassionate co-founders of the Gemini Bed Project, an organization that is dedicated to providing beds to foster and other vulnerable children.
“Every child deserves a bed,” stated Teresa and Jim. “This project is truly driven by God,” Jim Jeffrey said. “We are just the vehicle. It’s definitely a calling. I’m so glad we listened. We hope others around the state do too.”
CCWVa will recognize the honorees at its Charity in Action Awards Luncheon on Monday, May 6, at the St. Mary’s Center for Education in Huntington, West Virginia. This is a remarkable and memorable event designed to inspire and honor exceptional local heroes who wholeheartedly commit their time, passion, and resources to enhance the lives of the people in Huntington and the neighboring communities.
“Catholic Charities West Virginia is grateful to have so many cherished collaborators and supporters in service with us. Together in spirit and mission of charity, we have changed lives for the better,” stated Mark Phillips.
Tickets for the Luncheon are $50 per person and can be purchased at www.ccwva.org/event/ciahuntington/ or by calling 304.905.9860.
Funds raised through the event support CCWVa’s programs and services in western West Virginia.