WILMINGTON, NC (May 20, 2024) |
On a 90-degree day in Whiteville, NC, team members from REV Federal Credit Union and Duke Energy came together to rehabilitate the home of a Columbus County community member who is a special forces Veteran. The homeowner had applied for help through WARM NC which stands for the Wilmington Area Rebuilding Ministry and whose mission is to repair, rebuild, and make homes accessible and safe for home owners. They serve 7 counties including Columbus, Bladen, Brunswick, Duplin, New Hanover, Onslow, and Pender.
Dori Bishara, Community Engagement Coordinator for REV, organized this volunteer day with Pam Hardy, District Manager for Duke Energy. Both companies serve Columbus County and REV has a branch location in Riegelwood, NC. “As we planned the volunteer day and after speaking with Kim Gore, Chief Operations Officer for WARM, we discovered that there is a challenge in recruiting volunteers in our more rural counties,” said Dori Bishara. In the spirit of building partnerships an invitation was extended to the Columbus County Chamber of Commerce to volunteer alongside team members from REV and Duke Energy. Chamber President, Joan McPherson, and Board Member, Cynthia Ellis rolled up their sleeves along-side REV team members from Riegelwood, Whiteville, and as far as Charleston, SC to pitch in on the construction project which included building an ADA ramp to the home. Dori Bishara also shared, “REV believes in improving the financial wellness of others and in building resilient communities. Working together with companies like Duke Energy and the Chamber will help us make a bigger impact.”
As part of the volunteer day REV donated $3,000 to WARM NC to help to fund future projects. Duke Energy was able to offer a grant for $5,000 as part of their Vibrant Communities efforts. There are waiting lists in all counties for families that need assistance from WARM and those interested in donating their time or money can learn more at www.warmnc.org.
