ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Nearly 200 people gathered May 14 at United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County’s Community Impact Awards Dinner to honor six local leaders and organizations for service and community engagement.
The event was held at The Barn, a locally owned event venue in West Asheville.
Kevin Montgomery, vice president of resource development for United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County, welcomed attendees and praised community partners for their ongoing service.
“Our staff feels incredibly fortunate,” Montgomery said. “Every day we get to meet incredible people in this community… people who are caring, creative and dedicated.”
United Way President and CEO Dan Leroy joined honorees and their teams for the celebration.
2026 Community Impact Awardees
Steve Shoaf — Hands On Asheville-Buncombe Volunteer of the Year
Shoaf was recognized for decades of volunteer service, including work that began with the Peace Corps and continued through United Way’s workplace campaigns.
“I started, probably 50 years ago, volunteering in the Peace Corps,” Shoaf said. “It’s part of my DNA… I feel like I can still do more.”
Legerton Architecture — Spirit of the Mountains Award
The firm, led by John and Wendy Legerton, was honored for community investment through financial support, employee engagement and volunteerism.
“It wasn’t all about making a profit,” Wendy Legerton said. “It was about building community and improving our environment.”
Amy Hanks — Women United Taylor Foss Award
Hanks was recognized for her leadership within United Way’s Women United giving society.
“When you’re incredibly grateful, it turns into responsibility,” Hanks said. “I believe we’re all called to serve.”
Team Us — Circle of Hope Award
The group was honored for its youth-focused community programming and outreach.
“It grew beyond a one-time event,” a representative said. “It’s about giving kids an outlet of positivity.”
Consulta tu Compa (Jackie Fitzgerald) — Live United Award
The organization was recognized for its work creating inclusive spaces and leadership opportunities.
“We create spaces where people are welcome to be their full selves,” Fitzgerald said. “Community work is about creating sustainable systems.”
Emily Erickson — Gamechanger Award
Erickson, principal of Enka Intermediate School, was honored for her leadership in community school initiatives and student support efforts.
“I try to be present with them always,” Erickson said. “Being a community school helps us support families and students so they can succeed.”
Event sponsors included Colton Groome, DMJPS, The Van Winkle Law Firm, Mosaic Lifestyle Realty, Modera Wealth Management and Crawl Space Ninja.
United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County said the awards highlight individuals and organizations working to strengthen community connections and expand opportunity across the region.
