Approximately 150 residents and friends attended the 14th annual Shepherd Community Center Community Awards and Holiday program.For this program, each council member invites friends, relatives and neighbors as an expression of love for those invited. The council also recognizes individuals and organizations that are doing exceptional things for the benefit of the community.
The Shepherd Community Action Council was organized in 1968. Shepherd is one of the oldest historically black communities in Hamilton County. The community began in 1877 as the reconstruction period ended. There are people yet living in Shepherd who are descendants of the original settlers.
The Shepherd Community Action Council sponsors activities that contribute to sustaining the spirit of a caring, close-knit community that has been characteristic of Shepherd over the years. Emphasis is also placed on improving the community and protecting its existence as it is threatened by encroaching businesses due to the ideal location of the community, said officials.
The Outstanding City Employee Award was presented to Tana Walker who is a "dedicated, dependable and hardworking" city employee who works closely with the Shepherd Community in bringing about needed improvements.
The Business Award is presented annually to a business that partners with the Shepherd Community Action Council in sponsoring activities that benefit the community. This year’s recipient was Coca Cola Bottling Company United, Inc., Mr. Avery Smith, key account manager.
The Emery G. Henderson Community Service Award was presented to Mrs. Willie Pearl Deramus, who is an active member of the Shepherd Community Action Council that exhibits outstanding leadership and initiative. Nominees must have regular attendance at meetings and go beyond participation in regular planned activities to do something that is noteworthy and of benefit to the community.
The Florence Goolsby-Owens Community Volunteerism Award is presented to residents of the Shepherd who volunteer to do something that improves or benefits and contributes to sustaining the community. This year there were two recipients, Mrs.Dixie Ballou and Mr. Vinson Gaines.
The Teen Volunteer Award was presented to Master Deangelo Allen Miller for selfless acts of kindness, servitude, dedication, and hard work in the Shepherd Community. He can be found throughout the community performing good deeds.
The program ended with words from the new neighbor, Scottie Neil, vice president, Pinnacle and her associate. There was singing by Eva Connor and Delilah Daniels, fellowship, and a meal.