Asheboro, N.C. — The Randolph Livestock & Poultry Improvement Association has been named a recipient of the Governor’s Award for Volunteer Service, recognizing their extraordinary commitment to giving back to the community through continued support of Hospice of Randolph’s annual Auction & Barbecue.
Since 2009, the Association has been a steadfast partner of Hospice of Randolph, generously donating time, talent, and resources to support the nonprofit’s signature fundraiser, the annual Auction & Barbecue. Over the past 15+ years, Association members have prepared more than 20,000 pounds of perfectly smoked barbecue and have helped raise more than $1 million in support of local hospice care and bereavement services.
“We are proud to congratulate the Association on this well-deserved recognition, which reflects their longstanding commitment to our nonprofit hospice mission and the community we serve,” said Trent Cockerham, Chief Executive Officer of Hospice of the Piedmont and its affiliate, Hospice of Randolph. “Their generosity and hands-on support — particularly through our annual Auction & Barbecue — continue to make a meaningful impact on the families we are honored to serve.”
Each fall, Association members bring cookers, skill, and remarkable dedication beginning preparation the night before. They tend the barbecue overnight with patience and pride, then return on event day to chop and prepare the meat so plates can be assembled and served efficiently. Their hands-on commitment has been essential to the fundraiser’s continued success. In addition, the group regularly engages local FFA chapters, encouraging youth to volunteer alongside seasoned members and making the effort a truly multi-generational service experience.
“Hospice has done a lot for our families in the past, so we try to give back to the community by helping with the Hospice Auction & Barbecue each year,” said Sheela Wright, Association member.
Hospice of Randolph nominated the Association for the Governor’s Award for Volunteer Service in recognition of its enduring partnership, selfless spirit, and meaningful contributions that have strengthened community connections and sustained critical hospice services.
The Governor’s Volunteer Service Award honors the true spirit of volunteerism by recognizing individuals and groups that make significant contributions to their communities through volunteer service. Nominations are submitted at the county level and reviewed by the Governor’s Volunteer Service Award Commission, with awards presented locally by designated county coordinators. More information about the program is available at https://www.nc.gov/working/volunteer-opportunities/volunteernc/governors-volunteer-service-awards.
The Randolph County Livestock and Poultry Improvement Association plans to continue its long-standing support of Hospice of Randolph and will once again be part of the 41st annual Hospice Auction & Barbecue on Saturday, October 17, continuing a tradition of service that has touched countless families.