Nearly 400 people came out Saturday evening for the Community of Excellence’s 3rd Annual Gala at the Wellness Center in Dillon.
The black tie affair provides scholarships for students, and honors those making a difference in the community.
Toni and Reggie Graves, along with their committee members make up the Community of Excellence.
Several local and state leaders were also in attendance at Saturday night's event.
This year, the nonprofit organization gave out scholarships for students at Latta, Lake View and Dillon High Schools; and a nontraditional award for a student.
The following people received community awards for their outstanding work:
- The People’s Choice Award: Kevin Locklear
- Reaching Back: NFL Player and Lake View native Darius Leonard
- Shining Star: Dr. Miranda Page
- Business Champion: Prestige Funeral Home
- Servant’s Heart: Pastor Larry Williams
- Trailblazer: Magnolia T. Williams
- Community Excellence: Teresa Pernell
- Spirit: Jamal Rogers Nelson
Dillon native, Elder Kevin Lighty, served as the keynote speaker for the gala.
Lightly urged community members to uplift and empower one another in Dillon County.
Lighty told those at the event that there was greatness in the room, and leaders are people who truly lead, regardless of any obstacles in their path.
Toni Graves said she, and her husband’s mission, is to help those in need, whether it be students or those who lost their home to a fire.
Graves said they’re helping people throughout the year.
She encouraged the community to support all nonprofit organizations that are making a difference.
“Our life is not our own,” said Graves.
ABC 15’s Tonya Brown served as the mistress of ceremony, and said she was blessed to be a part of such a great event to help others.
Level 10 band performed throughout the evening and had lots of people “shaking a leg.”
Graves said a lot of hard work goes into the event and they’ll start work in the coming days for next year’s gala.
She thanked her committee for their tireless efforts and those who attended the gala.