FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Bessemer City, NC
April 22, 2026
Bessemer City Honors Volunteers at Annual Banquet
The City of Bessemer City proudly recognized the individuals who generously give their time and talent to serve the community during a Volunteer Appreciation Banquet held on Tuesday, April 21 at the Allan Farris Community Center.
The event brought together Mayor Smith, City Council, and City Staff to celebrate volunteers from across a wide range of boards, programs, and initiatives. Honorees included those serving on the Planning / Zoning / Stormwater Board, Downtown Development Board, Parks and Recreation Board, ABC Board, as well as Parks and Recreation volunteers, Senior Program volunteers, and others who contribute to the City through administrative and community-based efforts.
Guest Speaker, Ray Hardee of the Pointe Church, gave an inspirational speech focused on service and how our work makes a difference for others.
Each volunteer in attendance was individually recognized and applauded for their service, reflecting the City’s deep appreciation for the critical role volunteerism plays in the strength and vitality of the community.
Volunteerism and civic engagement are central to Bessemer City’s Strategic Plan, which prioritizes engaging the community and expanding opportunities for residents to serve. City leaders emphasized that the commitment of volunteers directly contributes to making Bessemer City a more vibrant and connected place to live.
At the conclusion of the evening, Parks and Recreation Director JoD Franklin announced the 2026 Volunteer of the Year Award. The honor was presented to Ms. Nancy Nichols Capps, age 95, who has dedicated more than 22 years of service to the Parks and Recreation Department, particularly in senior programming and bingo.
Ms. Capps, deeply appreciative of the recognition, shared her motivation for volunteering, stating simply, “You have to keep moving…” and that she “loved Bessemer City.”
Director Franklin expressed sincere gratitude for Ms. Capps, who serves as an inspiration for us all and all volunteers who support City programs, noting their invaluable contributions to the community.
Mayor Smith echoed those sentiments, stating that she and the City Council are extremely appreciative of the dedication and impact of Bessemer City’s volunteers in helping make the community a better place.
City Manager Josh Ross added that volunteerism and community engagement are foundational to a successful community, emphasizing that the spirit of service demonstrated by Bessemer City’s volunteers is what makes the City a great place to live and work.
The City of Bessemer City extends its heartfelt thanks to all volunteers for their continued service, commitment, and positive impact on the community.
Photos from the event can be found here: Photos from Volunteer Banquet
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