Russell Wilson, founder of Pro Feet and a champion for numerous Alamance County non-profits, was awarded the Duke Energy Citizenship and Service Award at the Alamance County Chamber of Commerce annual dinner on Jan. 24.
The award is given annually by Duke Energy in recognition of people or groups who make a difference in their communities by contributing their time, talents and compassion to positively influence the lives of others. Candidates are nominated by their peers for consistently living out the values of volunteerism and encouraging others to support their community through getting involved where they can make a difference.
Russell is a role model and example of citizenship in the way he encourages service to others, said Walter Britt, CEO/executive director of Alamance County Community YMCA. He is a gifted servant leader who truly believes in creating meaningful impact in our community through his dedicated, tireless service to multiple organizations.
Without question, the Duke Energy accolade is well deserved. Over the years, Wilson has been involved with many non-profits in Alamance County, steering countless projects and raising millions of dollars. His leadership has contributed to the growth and advancement of numerous organizations, including:
The YMCA
Alamance County Arts Council
United Way
Alamance Community College Board of Trustees
Alamance Community College Foundation
ARMC Charitable Foundation
Salvation Army/Boys & Girls Club
Alamance Cares
Elon University Board of Visitors
Elon Academy
First Presbyterian Church
Carolyn Rhode, executive director of the Alamance Community College Foundation and Vice President of Institutional Advancement, described Wilson as a tireless fundraiser who is motivated by his care for the students. Nothing gives him more joy than to look a student in the eye and have that student say how much he appreciates being able to go to college, Rhode said.
Wilson, who is semi-retired from the sock manufacturing and distribution company he founded nearly 40 years ago, finds more fulfillment than ever in his civic involvement. When you genuinely believe in the value of what youre doing and you team up with people who care as much as you do, theres nothing you cant accomplish, Wilson said. I dedicate this Duke Energy award to everyone Ive served with along the way, in honor of their vision, hard work and commitment to missions that have made a difference in the lives of others.
