When making significant changes in your life, it's inevitable that both joys and challenges will arise. While it can be thrilling to embark on new adventures, such as starting a new job or moving to a new city, there may also be moments of isolation and regret. These moments can leave you feeling lonely and even depressed, especially when you have a lack of interpersonal communication or physical contact.
If you're like us, it's hard to imagine life without heartfelt hugs from family or deep conversations with your best friends. Unfortunately, moving to a new city or state may mean giving up those luxuries for a while. So, what should your next steps be? For many people, one of the first tasks to accomplish is finding a new place to meet people. But that's easier said than done, especially when you're trying to impress at a new job or feel like you don't belong in a new city like Mount Pleasant. You may be asking yourself questions like:
If you're struggling to hit the ground running now that you're living in the Lowcountry, know that you're not alone. At Pavilion North Church, we know the challenges and fears you're facing. We see them every day. But there's Good News to celebrate: By putting your faith in God, you can rediscover the power of trust, patience, strength, and faith. And that's incredibly important, especially if you feel like life is pointless right now. Whether you're looking to worship at a new nondenominational church in Awendaw, SC, or you simply need a warm, welcoming place to meet new people without judgment, Pavilion North is here to help.
Here at Pavilion North, we strive to be a place where the saving grace of Jesus Christ transforms lives. We do this by helping people grow in their relationship with God, achieve freedom, and fulfill their purpose in serving others. If you're new to the metro Awendaw area, feel lonely in our city, or are looking for a friendly, fulfilling place to worship, our doors are open to you, no matter your background or beliefs.
When you boil it down to the basics, we believe that God established our nondenominational church in Awendaw, SC, to be a place of refuge and salvation. In scripture, the word Pavilion is defined as a place where the presence of God dwells. In His presence, we can be transformed and find everything we need to live the abundant life Jesus came to give us. If you're thinking to yourself, "Sure, that sounds great, but I've never been religious and have never been to church," know that you and every person are welcome at Pavilion North. Our prayer is that every person that enters through our doors can experience the grace, power, and love of Jesus Christ in a new way.
We help spread that message by leaning on our values, which include:
The greatest commandment is to Love God & Love People (Mark 12:30,31)
My house shall be called a house of Prayer. (Luke 19:46)
We are saved by grace through faith. (Ephesians 2:8)
Faith is confidence in what we hope for. (Hebrews 11:1)
One feature that sets us apart from other churches in Awendaw is the fact that we are nondenominational. If you're used to denominations like Baptists and Methodists or are unfamiliar with denominations in general, this phrase might be new to you. Let's dive a little deeper into what our nondenominational status means.
Nondenominational churches are Christian churches that choose not to hold a connection to recognized denominations such as Lutheran, Presbyterian, Catholic, etc. Nondenominational churches do not follow the directives of larger denominational organizations and make their own decisions on various parts of church life. They emerged during the latter half of the 20th century, primarily in the United States, out of a desire for independence and a return to the biblical basics of Christianity. The reasons for their establishment vary, but many founders sought to separate themselves from the doctrinal and sometimes political affiliations of long-established denominational churches.
First things first: Every nondenominational church and church body will have a slightly different answer to this question. Generally speaking, however, nondenominational Christians believe that the Bible should be the ultimate authority when it comes to teaching, worship, and other aspects of church life.
Unlike denominational churches, nondenominational churches do not follow the exact beliefs set out by a larger organization. Instead, they rely on scripture to guide their beliefs and practices. Nondenominational churches are often led by members of the church congregation, reflecting a belief that a church is a community of believers rather than a hierarchy. They believe that doctrines formulated through interpretation and annotation of the scriptures are not necessary and can sometimes distract from God's word.
If you're interested in attending our nondenominational church in Awendaw, SC, and are curious about what makes us different from other, more traditional churches, it would be our pleasure to sit with you and discuss our statement of beliefs. Simply visit our website or contact our office today to learn more.
When it comes to loneliness, there are both good and bad ways of coping. Some folks choose to become workaholics, spending every waking hour dedicated to work, work, work. This self-defeating choice often results in waking up before the sun, working all day, and going to bed completely exhausted. While good for financial reasons, this method results in emotional and physical burnout.
Others focus on material items - they buy everything they can get their hands on because they mistakenly believe that more "things" will make them happy. Unfortunately, "things" do nothing to satisfy your desire for human connection and less loneliness. Would your "things" make you feel happy on an island where there's no human contact?
Others cheat on their partners, experiment with drugs and alcohol, or pitch pity parties for themselves, all to no avail. So what is the solution if you've been feeling lonely since moving to Mount Pleasant, SC? All we have to do is look to the Bible - and specifically Paul - for answers. In the Bible, Paul must confront loneliness head-on, and he does so in ways that are very applicable to modern situations like yours.
If you're feeling lonely, it's important to stay productive and make the most of your time. Don't allow loneliness to immobilize you. Instead, find a way to make the best of the situation. Remember the saying, "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade." Do whatever it takes to combat loneliness. Take a cue from Paul, who didn't allow himself to wallow in self-pity.
Despite being in prison, he asked for his coat and books so he could stay warm and use the time for writing and studing. This was a significant shift for Paul, who was an active church planter. Although he would have preferred to be preaching in the Colosseum, he recognized that God could use his loneliness for good. It's essential to take care of yourself when you're lonely, so don't neglect your personal needs. With the right mindset and approach, you can turn a negative situation into a positive one.
If you're feeling lonely, it's important to stay productive and make the most of your time. Don't allow loneliness to immobilize you. Instead, find a way to make the best of the situation. Remember the saying, "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade." Do whatever it takes to combat loneliness. Take a cue from Paul, who didn't allow himself to wallow in self-pity.
Despite being in prison, he asked for his coat and books so he could stay warm and use the time for writing and studing. This was a significant shift for Paul, who was an active church planter. Although he would have preferred to be preaching in the Colosseum, he recognized that God could use his loneliness for good. It's essential to take care of yourself when you're lonely, so don't neglect your personal needs. With the right mindset and approach, you can turn a negative situation into a positive one.
When dealing with loneliness, recognizing God's presence is a helpful approach. According to Paul, God provided him with strength and was with him always. Jesus also reassured his followers that they would never be alone. God himself promised to never leave nor forsake us.
David, who experienced loneliness himself, found comfort in his fellowship with God. He recognized that loneliness was an opportunity to grow closer to God. Instead of giving in to the temptation to do nothing, as Paul did, we should focus on making our time count by spending it in fellowship with God.
Remember, you can supplement your relationship with God and help combat loneliness by worshiping with others. If you're new to Mount Pleasant, our nondenominational church in Awendaw, SC, will welcome you with open arms and with a heart full of joy. Simply being in the presence of positive, faithful people can have a huge impact on your mental health, regardless of how active or aloof you wish to be in church functions.
One effective way to cope with loneliness is by showing empathy toward the needs of others. Instead of being self-centered, shift your focus towards those around you who may also be feeling lonely. Consider reaching out and helping them in any way you can.
A great example of this is Paul, who dedicated his life to serving others and spreading the word of God. Despite facing loneliness towards the end of his life, he remained committed to his goal of helping people in need. As he once said, "The Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it." (2 Timothy 4:17)
At Pavilion North, we worship with many people who question the purpose of their existence and whether their actions hold any significance. With all the trials and tribulations in modern times, it's easy to forget that God designed a plan for us to experience growth and joy - to live by faith and, ultimately, to return to His presence. Despite the plan God has for them, many Americans feel less happy than ever - only 14% of people felt "very happy" in 2020, according to the University of Chicago.
Whether you're religious or not, if you're struggling to find meaning in your life, keep these tips in mind to help you find happiness.
Life is often compared to a journey, and while it may sound cliché, this perspective can actually give us a sense of purpose in our everyday lives. A prime example is Mike Signorelli, who was once an atheist but later discovered religion and became the founding pastor of V1 Church, a thriving congregation in the New York City region. However, you don't have to undergo a religious conversion to experience a similar awakening. Simply shifting your mindset and approach to the world can lead to a meaningful journey of self-discovery.
Set a small goal for yourself every week. It could be something as easy as 15 minutes of self-reflection or promising that you will visit a nondenominational church in Awendaw, SC. No matter what goal you choose, continue to set them and acknowledge each accomplishment as a victory.
Contact UsWhether it's a professional group, a Sunday school meetup outside church, a Bible study book club, or a neighborhood association, getting involved and meeting new people can add value to your life and create lasting connections. It doesn't matter what form it takes - the important thing is to build relationships and be an active member.
Find inspiration from mentors, famous individuals who you admire, or even an exceptional parent that you've noticed in a new neighborhood you live in. Observe the world from their perspective, absorb their experiences, and expand your self-awareness. At Pavilion North, we strive to emulate Jesus Christ and, through Him, positively affect others who may feel down, out, or like their life has no meaning.
Looking for a church that brings people from diverse backgrounds together? Are you feeling lonely and need the compassion and support from fellow Christians? Do you feel lost on your journey in life and need help finding a new direction? A nondenominational church in Awendaw, SC, may be for you. Without any denominational affiliation, you can worship and connect with others based solely on your love for Jesus. Nondenominational churches often have a strong sense of community involvement, making for a unique worship experience, and that's no different at Pavilion North in Mount Pleasant, SC.
Our church is proud to be multicultural, multi-generational, and open to worshiping with people from any and all denominational backgrounds, cultures, and nations. God does indeed work in mysterious ways - and if you're reading this sentence, this could be a sign that His plan for you is working. Contact us today to take the next step in your life toward happiness and fulfillment through fellowship and Christ.
(843) 823-2081CHARLESTON COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD) – A prescribed burn will take place Wednesday in the Awendaw area.The United States Forest Service (USFS) will conduct two prescribed fires that include about 514 acres in the area of Victor Lincoln at Halfway Creek and approximately 147 acres near Halfway Creek and Steed Creek, according to Awendaw-McClellanville Fire District.Officials say those who live, work, and travel in the area will see and smell smoke.CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – A total solar eclipse will cross North Amer...
CHARLESTON COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD) – A prescribed burn will take place Wednesday in the Awendaw area.
The United States Forest Service (USFS) will conduct two prescribed fires that include about 514 acres in the area of Victor Lincoln at Halfway Creek and approximately 147 acres near Halfway Creek and Steed Creek, according to Awendaw-McClellanville Fire District.
Officials say those who live, work, and travel in the area will see and smell smoke.
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – A total solar eclipse will cross North America next week – but how much will we see in South Carolina? Well, it depends on where you are and the forecast.
Totality – like what we saw in August 2017 when the eclipse passed over Charleston – will not happen here at home; however, we are in store for a partial eclipse. That means only a portion of the sun will be covered by the moon when it passes by on the afternoon of Monday, April 8.
“Unfortunately, it won’t be like it was in 2017 when we got totality where it looked like it was in the middle of the night, yet it was the middle of the afternoon. So, we’re going to get about 70% obscuration,” said Storm Team 2 Chief Meteorologist Rob Fowler.
What is a total solar eclipse?
A total solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and earth, blocking the face of the sun, and causing the sky to go dark to appear as though it was nighttime.
Charleston saw totality in August 2017. This time we will see a partial eclipse with about 70% obscuration. However, most other areas in South Carolina will see a higher percentage on Monday afternoon.
What is the path for Monday’s eclipse?
The moon’s shadow will make landfall near Mazatlán, Mexico around 11:00 a.m. Pacific Daylight Time before entering the United States in southwest Texas, according to NASA. It will cross many south-central states before moving over the Northeast and into Canada.
What is the timing for seeing the eclipse in Charleston?
Charleston will begin seeing the eclipse just before 2:00 p.m. with the largest chunk of obscuration happening for us a little after 3:00 p.m.
“It starts about 1:53 in the afternoon for us, and about 3:10 will be our highest percentage of obscuration for the partial solar eclipse, and then it ends at about 4:24 p.m.,” Fowler explained.
How much of the eclipse will we see in Charleston?
South Carolina is in the 70%-80% range but a small portion of the immediate coast, which includes the Charleston area, is less at 60%-70% obscuration. Fowler said we’re more in the 70% range.
“I always use the analogy that if you’re in a closet and you shut the door it is pitch black. Now open that door about 30% and how much light will come in? Now you can see your surroundings. We’re not going to get the full experience,” he said.
What is the forecast for Monday’s eclipse?
“The forecast for us right now, and we’re talking on Tuesday, the forecast for next Monday is good,” said Fowler. “Sunny sky, mid-70s- so kind of a typical April day. I’m excited about the weather.”
Forecasting something like viewing a solar eclipse really depends on cloud over. You can see a cirrus cloud that could block the sun a little bit just as much as you could have stratus clouds with more widespread sky coverage.
“When you’ve got different layers of clouds and you’re forecasting those different layers, that’s the toughest part – where do you see a hole, or do you even see a hole in the cloud cover. Fortunately, when you get into this time of the year, the sun is getting high enough in the sky that the sunlight will break through some of those clouds,” Fowler said.
Monday’s eclipse comes at a time of year when you should still be able to see plenty of sun and plenty of the partial solar eclipse.
Do I need to wear special glasses to view the eclipse?
Yes, absolutely. NASA says it is not safe to look directly at the sun without specialized eye protection, except for a brief phase when the moon totally blocks the sun. Otherwise, you risk severe eye injury. And again, the sun will not be totally blocked when viewing from Charleston.
“It doesn’t matter whether it’s a partial or total, you have to use the special glasses. A lot of people who were around in 2017 probably still have their glasses hanging out – those glasses that you have most likely are the ones that are approved and safe. Sunglasses don’t do the trick and don’t look with the naked eye because it can absolutely do damage to your eyes,” said Fowler.
Click here to learn more about the proper solar eclipse glasses.
AWENDAW, S.C. (WCSC) - Some homeowners in Awendaw say they are concerned severe weather may be bringing severe problems to their properties.Community members living on Seewee Road claim more recent storms in the Lowcountry have caused drainage issues for roadside ditches along the six-mile stretch of rural road.“My backyard is just totally covered with water,” neighbor Stephen Flagg says. “My front yard has been totally covered with water. I mean, something just needs to be done.”Flagg lives on th...
AWENDAW, S.C. (WCSC) - Some homeowners in Awendaw say they are concerned severe weather may be bringing severe problems to their properties.
Community members living on Seewee Road claim more recent storms in the Lowcountry have caused drainage issues for roadside ditches along the six-mile stretch of rural road.
“My backyard is just totally covered with water,” neighbor Stephen Flagg says. “My front yard has been totally covered with water. I mean, something just needs to be done.”
Flagg lives on the same portion of land as his grandmother, Lillie Swinton. The family has called Seewee Road home since the 1960s. They say they have noticed the problem for decades.
Both Swinton and Flagg say taking care of the ditches along the property is one thing, but they believe fixing the ditches along the wooded areas and uninhabited spaces would make a big difference.
“Anytime we have heavy rain, the water settles. The ditch drain, there’s nowhere for it to go,” Swinton says. “When summer comes, we’re going to have a lot of trouble with mosquitos, and moccasin snakes.”
At one end of Seewee Road sits the Town of Awendaw Town Hall. Town Administrator Gregory Saxton says he has heard the concerns of neighbors and relayed them to the South Carolina Department of Transportation for assistance.
Seewee Road is a state road and therefore maintained by SCDOT through work orders.
“We just want something to be done. Because after all, we’re taxpayers, just like others. We should be able to have access to things, just like the other communities,” homeowner Alberta Goodwine says. “When it’s raining, the water just settles into the ditches and overflows in the yard. It’s a nuisance.”
Goodwine worries parts of the neighborhood community have been neglected. She adds it is a problem that affects her social life and her daily routines.
“When I step out, I’ve gotta have a boot on coming off the step. To protect myself,” Goodwine says. “Put pipes or something, so drainage will go somewhere, not on my property.”
SCDOT spokesperson Ginny Jones released the following statement:
We had a crew work on ditches along Seewee Road Jan. 2-5. Last week, the crew had to work on storm recovery efforts, but we have employees back out there today. The crew will not be onsite tomorrow due to a regularly scheduled safety meeting, but they will return on Thursday and Friday, as well as next week if necessary. Our crews are digging along approximately 9,100 linear feet of roadway, so it is taking some time, but we will continue to work on it as needed.
Regarding a work order, the answer is both: A citizen may enter an online work request, or a municipality may enter a work request on behalf of a citizen. Online work requests can be submitted here: https://apps.scdot.org/mwro/
We have been in touch with the Town of Awendaw about this work. Please let us know if you need any further information.”
When asked for clarification on how uninhabited portions of the road are maintained, Jones released this response:
SCDOT maintains what is in our right of way. If the land belongs to a municipality, county, or other party, we often work with those folks to plan for maintenance, but there are a lot of different ways that can look.
Copyright 2024 WCSC. All rights reserved.
AWENDAW, SC (WCIV) — For weeks, Awendaw residents have been expressing concerns about the potential of hundreds of new homes coming to their community."Town council has approved 822 new residences with more on the docket tonight," Awendaw resident John Cooke said. "Those residences come with a population that will at least double our current population."Read more: ...
AWENDAW, SC (WCIV) — For weeks, Awendaw residents have been expressing concerns about the potential of hundreds of new homes coming to their community.
"Town council has approved 822 new residences with more on the docket tonight," Awendaw resident John Cooke said. "Those residences come with a population that will at least double our current population."
Read more: Awendaw residents fear housing boom could threaten town's rural charm
However, Mayor Miriam Green says the population will not be doubled.
"It's not the truth," Green said. "It's not a total of 800 homes. And if it is, they still have to go through planning."
"I can't say it's 800, 9,00, or 1,000 homes because I don't know," she continued. "But in the preliminary plan, yes, it did say certain amount of homes will be built up there."
Green describes the development plans as "smart growth".
"We are following ordinance and processes of procedures and state guidelines," she said.
In response to the concerns about the development plans being too much in too little time, Green says the town has to follow guidelines and the rules.
"Just because someone comes to you and says 'This is what we want,' doesn't meant that's what the majority of the citizens of Awendaw want," the mayor said.
Residents have also expressed concerns about how new developments may affect Awendaw's roads and infrastructure.
Read more: Ten Mile Neighborhood Association challenges proposed approval of development along Seafood Road
"Last meeting, I heard emergency services people talk about the fact that they were concerned about their ability to support the town," Cooke said. "The roads, the infrastructure might not be able to support (new development). The roads that were made in the early 1950s-60s are still the ones being used today and could fail."
Green says the infrastructure, road, and traffic issues are being analyzed as part of the development plans.
"We're looking at all that stuff," the mayor said. "We have a traffic study in place, but it doesn't happen overnight."
Another concern is the septic tanks that will be used for the new development, which Green says the town is working on with the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).
Read more: Zoning denial a 'win' for some Awendaw residents
"20 years when all these systems start to fail, you could have an ecological disaster that could affect a lot of bulls bay and the intercoastal waterways," Cooke said.
The evening of Aug. 21, the Awendaw Planning Commission reviewed the Harper Valley proposal. It was denied in a 5-1 vote.
Cooke says people who live in Awendaw are banding together in opposition and they are asking for a moratorium to slow down the development.
"It's a growing pain in Awendaw," Green said. "It's not the people that live here. It's the people that came here."
CHARLESTON COUNTY, S.C. (WCSC) - A $5 million federal investment will soon add 446 acres of land along the South Carolina shoreline.Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge is currently made up of 22 miles of barrier islands. Sarah Dawsey, the refuge manager, has been working with nature preservation since she was in high school and joined the Youth Conservation Corps.“This has been a lifelong goal for me. I mean, I can’t tell you how ecstatic I am to get this money. We have barrier islands, the refuge is barrier island...
CHARLESTON COUNTY, S.C. (WCSC) - A $5 million federal investment will soon add 446 acres of land along the South Carolina shoreline.
Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge is currently made up of 22 miles of barrier islands. Sarah Dawsey, the refuge manager, has been working with nature preservation since she was in high school and joined the Youth Conservation Corps.
“This has been a lifelong goal for me. I mean, I can’t tell you how ecstatic I am to get this money. We have barrier islands, the refuge is barrier islands, and they’re only accessible by boat,” Dawsey says.
Coastal Expeditions does run a ferry to Bulls Island for a fee so those interested can visit for the day. There is a public dock on the island for those with boats to use as well.
“This money will allow us to have a tract on the mainland, where we can have trails, we can have hunting, fishing, environmental education, everything that we do on the islands, but to a greater extent and you don’t have to have a boat so it’s really exciting,” Dawsey says.
She also notes that a mainland tract is a step toward a future corridor connecting the refuge to the Francis Marion National Forest.
Durwin Carter is the project leader for Cape Romain, Ace Basin, Santee and Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuges. He says any addition of land is a huge win for conservation efforts, wildlife and the people nearby who can enjoy it.
“It ties directly into what our mission is. Our mission is essentially working with other partners to conserve these lands and habitats and the critters that use it, for the public to enjoy,” Carter says.
Dawsey and Carter pointed out how erosion from storms and sea level rise are threatening the barrier islands and, in their time at the refuge, they have seen the saltwater breach into ponds on Bulls Island and encroach further into the land each year.
“With the threats happening with development and habitat fragmentation and sea level rise, any additional lands that we can conserve are going to be beneficial. We do what we do for the wildlife, for the habitats and for people to enjoy. But we also do it for future generations to enjoy,” Carter says.
The funding comes from the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund. The fund is made up from the sale of Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamps, commonly known as Duck Stamps, and import taxes.
The refuge has a visitors center located off Highway 17 where people can learn more about the conservation work and migratory bird protection the islands offer. Dawsey says people are always welcome to visit Bulls Island as long as they come with respect for the wildlife and leave it as they found it.
“If you see birds flying around or acting unusual or dive bombing you, that’s a signal that you’re close to their nest and they’re just trying to protect their babies,” Dawsey says.
Cape Romain is home to more than 290 bird species that migrate through the area as well as other animals like alligators, deer and sea turtles.
“We are just winding up our field season, so we have a really big loggerhead sea turtle project, it’s seven days a week. We do a lot of posting for birds and stewarding to keep people out of the bird areas and educating people on why it’s important,” Dawsey says.
Carter says his staff and volunteers are grateful for the land the refuge currently gets to take care of. They are looking forward to the expansion once the sale is finalized and eventually to hosting wildlife and visitors on the new mainland tracts.
“We’re really lucky to have the jobs that we have because they really enjoy their time out on the water of Cape Romain; really enjoy their times out on the trails, enjoy their times out appreciating the refuge, doing birdwatching, fishing, hunting, whatever it is, we’re constantly reminded of how great our jobs are because we get a chance to see this every day,” Carter says.
Copyright 2023 WCSC. All rights reserved.
AWENDAW, S.C. (WCIV) — For the past three years, two months, and 17 days, Middleton & Maker Village Barbeque has been providing good food for a good cause, and has provided a safe space for customers.“It’s a backyard family reunion type of effect," said Eliot Middleton, one of the co-owners of the popular business....
AWENDAW, S.C. (WCIV) — For the past three years, two months, and 17 days, Middleton & Maker Village Barbeque has been providing good food for a good cause, and has provided a safe space for customers.
“It’s a backyard family reunion type of effect," said Eliot Middleton, one of the co-owners of the popular business.
This family reunion started back in 2016 as a mobile business bringing barbeque to different areas throughout the Lowcountry, but once those wheels parked, the business began to grow.
"From that opportunity coming into this opportunity with this restaurant being available and getting this literally two days before Covid start, so it’s just been a very strong strong battle for the last four years," Middleton said.
Middleton's passion didn't stop there. After realizing transportation was hard to come by for some people, his love to help the community kicked in.
“On the Middleton side, whatever profits I get from the restaurant, it all went back into the cars and making sure I could fix and develop cars that needed," Middleton said.
Unfortunately, the popular BBQ spot, located on 5105 N HWY 17 in Awendaw, will be closing due to new development plans moving into the area. But the business is now going back to its roots.
“We’re going back mobile. It’s going to be Middleton’s Village Mobile Barbeque LLC, and we’re going to be in all of the other areas and counties, and we’re going to do more community-oriented events," Middleton said.
Despite the change in locations, the passion remains, and the village will only grow.
"And they say if you build it they will come, and that’s what we did here—we built it, and people are coming," said Charles Maker, co-owner of Middleton & Maker Village BBQ.
Middleton and Maker will also start having village field days throughout the community for people of all ages to come out, play games and get some good food.
Middleton's service to his community dates back years. In October 2020, he was recognized with the Jefferson Award after he started fixing up old cars and giving them out to people in need of reliable transportation.