United Way names Deonna Wylie the 2023 Judith M. Davis Volunteer of the Year

United Way of the Midlands recognized Deonna Wylie of DW Empires of Excel Real Estate as the recipient of the 2023 Judith M. Davis Volunteer of the Year Award.

“This award honors the spirit of Judy Davis’ commitment to constantly improving the Midlands,” said Sara Fawcett, United Way President & CEO. “Deonna is an active volunteer, donor and champion for United Way of the Midlands and our Young Leaders Society. As chair of the YLS Steering Committee, Deonna spends countless hours volunteering, planning events, soliciting funds and most importantly creating relationships and connecting new faces to United Way and YLS.”

Wylie has been engaged with the United Way as a valued volunteer and Young Leaders Society (YLS) donor since 2019. She currently serves as the YLS Chair and is credited with starting the YLS Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Subcommittee. 

“I am honored to be recognized as this year’s Judith M. Davis Volunteer of the Year,” said Wylie. “You never know the positive impact you can have on someone’s life. What might seem like a simple gesture to you, can plant a seed that produces fruit for a generation.” 

Wylie’s philanthropic efforts do not stop at United Way’s footsteps. She also brings awareness to feminine healthcare by hosting the annual Cola Rosé Shower. “In its second year, the Cola Rosé Shower promotes awareness of feminine care issues that plague women in the Greater Columbia community,” Wylie said. “Held at Williams-Brice Stadium the event aims to turn Columbia’s most masculine symbol pink for a day to promote unity around the cause of feminine care. It celebrates women in South Carolina and provides product donations to nonprofits impacting women.” 

The award recipient was selected based on a demonstrated commitment to community service and a desire for professional development. The recipient must be an active donor in United Way of the Midlands’ Young Leaders Society, complete a minimum of 50 hours of community service in the past year, have at least one year of nonprofit volunteer board or committee service, and must be currently employed with a for-profit organization. The recipient will receive tuition and travel expenses to attend a Harvard University Leadership Development course in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

To learn more about United Way of the Midlands, visit www.uway.org.  

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About United Way of the Midlands
United Way of the Midlands is the most collaborative, efficient and accountable model for investing in the improvement of the Midlands community. With nearly 70 Community Impact Partners, United Way works to identify and respond to the critical human service needs of Calhoun, Fairfield, Lexington, Newberry, Orangeburg and Richland counties. Funds are raised through workplace campaigns, grant writing and individual donations and are directed to fight for causes including childhood literacy, economic mobility and dental and eye care for those without resources. For more information, please visit www.uway.org.