The Human Relations Council (HRC) is pleased to pronounce Bailey FormyDuval and Markie Hayes as Wake Forest’s 2025 Youth and Adult Good Neighbors of the Year. The HRC announced the honorees during Saturday's Good Neighbor Day celebration at E. Carroll Joyner Park, 701 Harris Road, where Mayor Vivian Jones presented each with a commemorative plaque.
In her nomination narrative, Rachel FormyDuval acknowledged Bailey’s “true spirit of community and compassion.”
“(Bailey) never hesitates to step up when someone is in need, offering her time, effort, and kindness without ever expecting anything in return,” wrote Rachel.
She also noted Bailey’s character and the selfless care she provides her 87-year-old grandmother, who is widowed and lives alone.
“Bailey is always there to assist her - whether it’s helping with chores, providing company, or simply making sure she feels loved and supported. Her willingness to give so much of herself at such a young age speaks volumes about her character.”
Bailey also serves the broader community by volunteering at a local food pantry where she recognized a gap in service.
“None of the volunteers spoke Spanish, and many Spanish-speaking families were struggling to communicate their needs,” noted Rachel. “Instead of waiting for someone else to fix the issue, Bailey took the initiative to begin teaching herself Spanish. Her goal was simple but powerful - to make every family feel seen, understood, and cared for.”
In closing, Rachel emphasized Bailey’s greatest gift – her heart.
“She goes out of her way to make everyone she meets feel welcomed, valued, and comfortable. Whether it’s an elderly neighbor, a family in need, or someone who just needs a smile, Bailey is there - with quiet strength, compassion, and a genuine desire to help.
“Her humility is just as inspiring as her actions. She never asks for recognition or reward. She gives because she cares. She is not just a good neighbor - she is a bright light in the community, leading by example and showing that even the smallest actions, when done with love, can have a big impact.”
Bethany Bartholomew, Jenny Carrington, Kim Losurdo, and Jill Norris nominated Markie, who “goes above and beyond for the town of Wake Forest and has a passion for her work and a love of all people.”
In her nomination narrative, Kim wrote, “I nominate Markie for her heartfelt dedication to our community. Markie consistently brings energy and care to our neighborhood, making a meaningful impact through her actions, even when she faces personal challenges.
“Markie has shown a remarkable commitment to fostering connection in our community through her Around the Forest website, in which she highlights people and businesses along with spreading compassion and kindness through awareness of inclusion for all in our community. These efforts, often done quietly but with great passion, create a warmer, more welcoming environment for all.”
In her narrative, Jenny stressed Markie’s “ unwavering dedication, creativity, and generosity in supporting the town of Wake Forest and its community. She devotes her time, talent, and marketing expertise to promoting local businesses and fostering meaningful connections among neighbors.”
Jenny also noted Markie’s “Around the Forest” Facebook page calling it “a vibrant platform that highlights Wake Forest’s small businesses while also sharing community service opportunities for residents.”
She also emphasized several other initiatives spearheaded by Markie, including #KindnessAroundtheForest.
“(Markie) launched and organized the inspiring initiative,” wrote Jenny. “As part of this campaign, Markie and her team placed handwritten kindness cards - filled with heartfelt words of encouragement and paired with gift cards to Sweet Traditions or Black & White Coffee - at special spots around town during the 2024 holiday season.
“Markie also helped spearhead an angel tree gift donation drive that brought Christmas joy to over 40 children from the Wake Forest Boys & Girls Club. In addition, she coordinated donations of games and consumable goods to benefit the club as a whole. Her generosity doesn’t stop there - Markie also shares her beauty expertise with seniors at The Lodge, where she coordinates and participates in special events designed to celebrate and pamper these cherished members of our community.”
In conclusion, Jenny wrote, “Through her kindness, leadership, and tireless efforts, Markie continues to make Wake Forest a more connected, caring, and compassionate place for everyone.”
The HRC solicits youth and adult nominations for the Good Neighbor of the Year award each year from April through August and announces the winners during Good Neighbor Day. For more information, visit wakeforestnc.gov and search “Good Neighbor Day” or contact Human Resources Director Angela McCray at amccray@wakeforestnc.gov.