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STAMFORD, Conn. More than 150 people representing local organizations and businesses made their way to Stamfords Sheraton Hotel for the United Way of Western Connecticuts 2012 Community Awards ceremony Wednesday afternoon.
The organization honored Eugene Campbell, executive director of the Yerwood Center, with the Advocate Award for his work with underprivileged youth in the city. He said his goal has been and will always be to follow the mission of Dr. Charles Yerwood, who fought against segregation and for equal rights.
Any good doctor knows you have to go to where the sick are, Campbell said in his acceptance speech.
Sandro Brelomme, an employee at the Yerwood Center, has known Campbell for two years and was immediately touched by how Campbell is always willing to help anyone in need. He remembers Campbell helping him apply for jobs and creating a resume as he prepared to graduate high school.
All you have to do is knock, Brelomme said, explaining that Campbells door is closed but opens for those in need.
Shirley Fishback was named volunteer of the year. She has helped the organization for the past 17 years in a variety of roles. She is proud of how the organization has evolved, particularly in the early education area.
Childrens minds are like sponges they soak up everything, Fishback said, stressing the importance of teaching kids at a young age.
The United Way of Western Connecticut also handed out the Give Award to 11 Stamford-based companies that assist the organization in helping the community. Those companies are G.E., Bank of America, Deloitte, First County Bank, Genworth Financial, Nestle Waters North America, Pitney Bowes, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Purdue Pharma, Stamford Board of Education and Webster Bank.
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