2025 Good Neighbor of the Year
The Human Relations Council is soliciting youth (ages 10-18) and adult (ages 19 and older) nominations for the 15th Annual Good Neighbor of the Year Award. The award recognizes Wake Forest residents who work to improve the quality of life in their neighborhoods without seeking recognition for their efforts.
In order to qualify for this year's award, a nominee must be a Wake Forest resident who made a significant contribution to the community between Sept. 1, 2024, and Aug. 31, 2025. Employees of the Town of Wake Forest are not eligible. All nominations must be received by August 31, 2024.
The "Good Neighbor of the Year" Award is Wake Forest's way of recognizing residents who are committed to preserving, maintaining and improving the quality of life in their neighborhoods and our community. Your assistance in recognizing these residents is greatly appreciated.
Good Neighbor Day
Mayor Vivian Jones will present a commemorative plaque to one youth and one adult winner during this year’s Good Neighbor Day on Saturday, Sept. 20. The event is scheduled from 1-4 p.m. at E. Carroll Joyner Park, 701 Harris Road.
Good Neighbor of the Year Winners - Adult
- 2024 Samantha Luce
- 2023 Sandy Matthews
- 2022 Christy Lynn Van Ness
- 2021 Ronnie Jackson
- 2020 Kenille Baumgardner
- 2019 Tilda Caudle
- 2018 Joy Shillingsburg
- 2017 John Andrew Barrett
- 2016 Hank Pierwola
- 2015 Connie & Herman Cole
- 2015 Norma Bennekin
- 2014 Becky Rogers, Hilda Warren
- 2012 Art Schwartz
- 2011 Albert Barneto, Eugene Adams
- 2010 John Panichello
Good Neighbor of the Year Winners - Youth
- 2023 Jay Jay Wilson
- 2022 Camden Ames
- 2021 Jordan Kaplan
- 2020 N/A
- 2019 Simone Smith
- 2018 N/A
- 2017 Trent Taylor
- 2016 Brianna Hernandez
- 2014 Katie Newhouse
- 2013 Scottlin Davis
- 2012 Kyndall DySard
- 2011 Holden McLemore