WellCare of North Carolina Honors Community Heroes
In a heartfelt recognition of local contributions, WellCare of North Carolina celebrated the 2025 Community Hero Award recipients. This annual event showcases organizations making significant impacts by removing barriers and improving the quality of life for communities throughout the state.
Commendable Achievements in Community Support
During the award ceremony, hosted by WellCare's Community Engagement team, notable partners who work tirelessly to foster meaningful societal change were honored. The event emphasizes the importance of collaboration in addressing community challenges and enhancing overall well-being.
Words from Leadership
Troy, the CEO and Plan President of WellCare of North Carolina, expressed his gratitude toward these exemplary organizations. "Each of our Community Heroes serves as a steady force for individuals and families across North Carolina. These partners demonstrate what it means to uplift communities with compassion, consistency, and purpose. We are grateful for their dedication and proud to support the work they do every day to improve lives."
Recognizing the Awardees
The recipients of this year's awards were chosen from numerous nominations submitted by partners and team members statewide. Each award recognizes impactful work across six Medicaid regions and highlights the essential services these organizations provide, which are crucial for fostering health, stability, and community connections.
Regional Award Recipients
Region 1: Homeward Bound & A-HOPE
Homeward Bound and A-HOPE have actively transformed the homelessness response in Buncombe County. By utilizing the Housing First model, Homeward Bound has achieved a remarkable 96.5% housing retention rate. A-HOPE serves as the vital initial contact for those experiencing homelessness, ensuring access to essential services that cultivate long-term stability.
Region 2: Angelic Warrior Foundation
The Angelic Warrior Foundation is dedicated to supporting individuals and families coping with colorectal cancer. Through education, advocacy, and community navigation, they shine a light on important issues such as early detection, thereby bolstering support systems for families during treatment.
Region 3: HELP Carolina
HELP Carolina plays a pivotal role by facilitating access to safe housing and essential resources for families in Gaston, Lincoln, and Cleveland Counties. Their work actively promotes family well-being and fosters community resilience.
Region 4: Shining Light in Darkness
This organization emphasizes trauma-informed care and crisis intervention for survivors of domestic violence, aiding in safety, healing, and strength rebuilding during some of life's most challenging times.
Region 5: Bishop Ann Newell-Dockery
Celebrated Pastor Ann has selflessly delivered home-cooked meals to individuals facing homelessness for nearly twenty years, emphasizing nourishment, dignity, and community connection.
Region 6: Act Now CDC
Act Now Community Development Corporation, Inc. is committed to supporting youth mental health and family stabilization through expert crisis navigation, emotional assistance, and service connections, ensuring individuals facing hardship are never alone.
Region 6: MENAC, Inc.
Through programs designed to develop leadership and character in young people, MENAC, Inc. reinforces accountability and skill-building, preparing the next generation for future success.
These awardees exemplify the essence of community service, listening with compassion and purpose, and working diligently to improve stability, safety, and opportunity across the state.
About WellCare of North Carolina
WellCare of North Carolina specializes in delivering government-sponsored managed care services for families, children, seniors, and individuals with complex needs through Medicaid, Medicare Advantage, and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans. WellCare is a subsidiary of Centene Corporation, an international healthcare company devoted to enhancing community health outcomes. To learn more, please visit www.wellcare.com/northcarolina.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Community Hero Awards?
The Community Hero Awards honor organizations making significant contributions to improve community well-being and remove barriers to healthcare.
Who provides the awards?
The awards are provided by WellCare of North Carolina, recognizing partners who play essential roles in community health and stability.
How are the award recipients selected?
Recipients are chosen from nominations submitted by partners and team members throughout North Carolina.
What type of services do the awardees provide?
The awardees offer a range of services including crisis intervention, housing support, mental health services, and community navigation to facilitate recovery and well-being.
How does WellCare support its community partners?
WellCare supports its community partners by providing grants to advance ongoing programs and enhance community outreach initiatives.
