The annual dinner is one of the agency’s major fundraisers designed to commemorate accomplishments; recognize staff, community partners and sponsors; and bring awareness to issues of poverty as well as garner funds to sustain First State’s ongoing efforts to help low-income families and disadvantaged communities become self-sufficient.

Among those honored were Gary and Karen McCrea with a Community Partners Award; and Rep. Daniel Short, R-Seaford, with a Legislative Award. Barbara Harmon was the 2009 recipient of First State’s Employee of the Year Award, and Peggy Strine received the agency’s Stanford L. Bratton Award for community service.

Over 300 guests attended the anniversary event. Delaware’s Lt. Gov. Matt Denn and Don Mathis, president/CEO of the National Community Action Partnership in Washington, D.C., were among the distinguished guests to offer special greetings.

Highlights of the event included silent and live auctions with Rep. Dave Wilson, R-Bridgeville, as the guest auctioneer and former Delaware Gov. John Carney as a spotter; musical performances by gospel recording artist Eunice Wright and an eight-piece student band from Delaware State University; and words of inspiration provided by the event keynote speaker, former football coach William “Bill” Yoast, whose career story inspired the movie “Remember the Titans.” Yoast gave words of encouragement to all the guests attending, stressing the importance of having and pursuing their dreams, coming together to overcome adversities and supporting the youth.

Yoast was joined by Kerry Lundin and Daryl “Blue” Stanton, two original members of Yoast’s T.C. Williams High School Titans championship football team.

The evening was an occasion of inspiration, celebration and, coincidently, birthdays. Nov. 16 signified an anniversary for the agency as well for Yoast, who celebrated his 85th birthday that night.