Present Pillars Selects Its Pillar of the Year
Present Pillars Selects Its Pillar of the Year
Present Pillars hosted its 4th Annual Pillar Awards Gala this past Saturday at the Four Winds Casino in New Buffalo at 11111 Wilson Rd, New Buffalo, MI 49117. The evening united community members in celebration of fatherhood, mentorship, and leadership throughout the community.
The awards gala featured food, live music, dancing and a reflection on the organization’s impact over the past year. The event drew more than 200 attendees.
“It was a great night for our organization," said James Gunter, Executive Director for Present Pillars. “We were able to share exciting news with members of our community and also highlight the change makers in our community that are present pillars to many.”
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Pillar of the Year Award, which went to Charlie Patterson, a dedicated case manager for teen parents at the Berrien County Health Department. Born and raised in Benton Harbor, Patterson has spent nearly 20 years serving youth and families in the community. He and his wife, Shenita, have been married for 18 years and are proud parents of four and grandparents of two. In addition to his professional work, Patterson is an ordained Elder with the Church of God in Christ at Brotherhood of All Nations Church in Benton Harbor. Known for his humility and heart for service, he has inspired many through his belief that true fatherhood is defined not by material wealth, but by love, commitment, and leadership in the home and community.
Additional awards were presented to recognize outstanding community contributions. The Legendary Pillar Awards were given to Reverend Leamon Terrell, Donald Pearson, and Glenn Yarbrough for their long-standing dedication and service. Trevin Alexander received the Mentor Award for his commitment to guiding and inspiring youth. The Community Impact Award was presented to Sergeant Reginald Gee of the Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety for his efforts to build stronger community relationships, and John Sams was honored as Sports Dad of the Year for his encouragement and support of youth athletics.
“We’re proud of our work here at Present Pillars,” said Gunter. “We thank everyone that has volunteered and contributed to our mission and we hope to continue to receive the support of our community.”
Those interested in supporting Present Pillars can donate at presentpillars.org. The organization invites the community to its Annual Trunk or Treat on October 31 at Union Field next to Discount Tire in Benton Harbor from 5:30–7:30 PM, and its Fall Family Run/Walk 5K on November 1 at 10:00 AM at Sarett Nature Center. Both events aim to bring families together in a safe and healthy environment.
