Caught Doing Good: Thomasville Alumni Class of 1973 collaborates to help others
“Caught Doing Good” is a concept inspired by local educators. The idea involves sharing brief notes about community members who have been observed doing something commendable. This could range from a significant act to a small gesture, but it will always highlight something good in our community.
The Thomasville Alumni Class of 1973, in collaboration with dedicated community supporters, has established a proactive committee. The first project was aimed at addressing homelessness, housing instability, and hunger, particularly in light of the upcoming inclement weather season.
As part of their initiatives, the committee launched the "Homeless Care Packages" project, which distributed specially designed backpacks throughout Davidson County in December.
After months of careful planning and collaboration, the team successfully delivered a total of 200 Homeless Care Backpacks in Thomasville and an additional 174 in Lexington, reaching numerous individuals in need.
Organizer Robert Gilmore described the experience as "indescribable," expressing gratitude for the community's overwhelming generosity. He noted that the outpouring of support for this humanitarian effort was deeply inspired by biblical teachings, especially Proverbs 19:17 and Deuteronomy 15:11, which emphasize the importance of helping those in need.
The initiative also engaged students from Thomasville High School, fostering a sense of civic responsibility and volunteerism among the youth. To encourage participation and raise awareness, the committee crafted a promotional message around the theme "Be A Cheerful Giver." Davidson County Parks and Recreation, along with students, set up a collection table during the bustling bulldog football season, serving as a focal point for donations. The project created new partnerships among various organizations and faith-based groups.
Pictured: Thomasville High School Class of 1973 and community volunteers.
In total, 36 donors and volunteers came together to contribute their time and energy. The collective efforts of the committee exceeded initial expectations, culminating in the distribution of a total of 486 backpacks—far exceeding the original goal of 300. Donations benefited several local organizations, including Cooperative Community Ministry, The Father’s Storehouse Ministries, Davidson County First Hope Ministries, Davidson Medical Missionary, and Davidson Connect.
Looking ahead, the alumni group is excited to shift its focus toward the upcoming Multicultural Annual Event, specifically the Davidson County Rhythm of Spring CommUnity Concert, scheduled for April 19, 2025, at 3 PM in the T. Austin Finch Auditorium. This concert will feature a lineup of talented performers, promoting unity and cultural appreciation within the community. All proceeds from the concert will support the Steve B. Price, Sr. Scholarships for Thomasville High, Lexington High, and, for the first time, three deserving students from Davidson County. Any remaining funds will continue to support the community care package project, ensuring ongoing assistance for those in need.
The group remains committed to maintaining its collaborative spirit and extending its outreach by utilizing social media and personal networks to ensure that the mission of helping others continue to thrive.
