Our Thanks to eight for their good works

On Saturday's Opinion pages, the Observer editorial board thanks eight people for their good works and commitment. We've done this at the end of the year for more than two decades. Those we thank are more than worthy but they are examples of the thousands of people who give their time, money and talents to make this area a more compassionate, prosperous and livable place. Several work with organizations that could use public support. Here is a list of them all and where you can get information about their groups (find the full articles on each in the print paper or at www.charlotteobserver.com/opinion:

Thelma Reynolds works with Charlotte Family Housing, a group that helps the homeless. Reach Charlotte Family Housing at http://www.charlottefamilyhousing.org/ or by calling 704-335-5488. You can donate online.

Cate Martin is president of the Merry Oaks Neighborhood Association, and does dog rescue work, fostering does for the North Mecklenburg Animal Rescue. Reach North Mecklenburg Animal Rescue at http://www.northmeckanimalrescue.org/ or email nmeckanimalrescue@yahoo.com.

Candace Curlin Vance established a book club for the homeless called Turning Pages Book Club. It meets Tuesdays at the uptown branch of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library. Go to http://turningpagescharlotte.blogspot.com for information on the club and how to donate.

Ron Leeper founded Men Who Care Global, a group reaching out to young black males. Reach the group by email at mwcglobal1@gmail.com or call 1-855-692-4562.

Ashley Armistead and Lori Klingman are president and vice president of Let Me Run, a running club for fourth-grade through middle-school-age boys designed to build self-esteem as well as physical health. Reach them at http://www.letmerun.org/ Their mailing address is Let Me Run, P.O. Box 473314, Charlotte, NC 28247. Donations can be made online or by mail.

Clair Lane founded Our Foundation for Children which aims to help keep families together by providing books, food, clothing and toys for needy families. Reach the group at www.ourfoundationforchildren.org or by phone at 704-503-3996 or 704-503-4964.

Jerry McGee is president of Wingate University in Union County and first chairman of the Union County Partners for Progress. Reach him by email at mcgee@wingate.edu.

Aimee Norman is head of outreach at Christ Episcopal Church. Reach the church at http://www.christchurchcharlotte.org/www.

Posted by Fannie Flono