Workers at the Painttown project include foreground (right-left) – Abe Queen, Paisley Raby, and Tuff Jackson ; background – Andy Hull and Sally Wildcat. (CPF photos)
For many centuries, the Cherokee have assisted members of their tribe who need help, perhaps tending a garden, fixing a roof, lending a hand with painting or yard clean up.
During this year’s daylong event held on Thursday, May 15, approximately 225 volunteers stepped forward and assisted families or individuals in particular need. That evening, nine “Quiet Heroes” and one “Good Neighbor” who have served their communities unselfishly were honored at a special dinner at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort.
The Cherokee Preservation Foundation, the Office of the Principal Chief of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, and Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort sponsored the 10th annual Cherokee Day of Caring.
On hand for the special day was legendary NASCAR racer Kyle Petty. A third-generation athlete, Kyle Petty has continued to keep the Petty family name rich in tradition and heritage while also making it a worldwide leader in philanthropic efforts. Petty is currently a racing analyst for TNT Fox Sports 1 covering the sport he grew up in.
“We are proud to celebrate the Cherokee Day of Caring not just because it has been a successful event for 10 years, but because it epitomizes this community’s giving spirit and compassion for one another,” said Cherokee Preservation Foundation executive director Annette Clapsaddle.
NASCAR legend Kyle Petty (left) is shown with homeowner Bob Reed, of the Painttown Community, and Principal Chief Michell Hicks (back).
Day of Caring Projects included:
Towstring – Helen Matthews
Big Cove – Hattie Panther
Yellowhill – Peggy Hill Kerbow
Painttown – Bob Reed
Big Y – Mabel Frizzell
Wolfetown – Lucille Owl Labrato
Birdtown – Bernice Lambert
3200 Acre Tract – Alice Dyer
Snowbird – Viola Lane
Cherokee County – Rita Rogers Rife
The Quiet Heroes & Good Neighbor Awards went to:
Towstring – Bertha Pilkington
Big Cove – Ruth Lossiah
Yellowhill-Kayla Johnson
Painttown-Lois Dunston
Big Y-Reba Brown
Wolftown-Debbie Bradley (Memorial)
Birdtown-Flora Bradley
Snowbird-Tevin Smoker
Cherokee County- Glen Rogers (Memorial)
Good Neighbor – Jack and Lisa Russell (the Good Neighbor is a non-EBCI Tribal member who gives of themselves unselfishly to benefit the entire tribe)
– Cherokee Preservation Foundation
