Vulcan Park Foundation Raises Over $150,000 at 2024 Vulcans Community Awards

Celebrating Exceptional Civic Pride and Leadership Across Birmingham

The Vulcan Park Foundation is proud to announce that its 10th Annual Vulcans Community Awards, held on November 6, 2024, at The Club in Birmingham, raised over $150,000 to support its mission of preserving Vulcan as a symbol of the Birmingham region, advancing knowledge of the city’s history and culture, and fostering community engagement. This milestone year marked Vulcan’s 120th birthday, the Foundation’s 25th anniversary, and the 20th anniversary of Vulcan Park & Museum’s reopening after its historic renovation.

The 2024 event celebrated seven extraordinary individuals whose dedication to the community reflects the very spirit of Birmingham:

Vulcan Legacy Builder Award: Stewart Dansby – Recognized for over two decades of pivotal contributions to the Vulcan Park Foundation, creating a legacy that will inspire future generations.
Vulcan Community Champion Award: The Kiwanis Club of Birmingham – Honored for their exceptional advocacy and support in preserving Vulcan and beautifying its scenic park.
Vulcan Spirit Award: C. Phillip McWane – Acknowledged for his steadfast commitment to ensuring Vulcan remains a symbol of Birmingham’s strength and resilience.
Lifetime Achievement Award: Gerald Watkins – Celebrated for revitalizing Rickwood Field and bringing major events to Birmingham, enriching the city’s cultural heritage.
Hero Award: Daniel Chaplin – Recognized for his tireless advocacy for the Down syndrome community, influencing legislation and improving countless lives.
Game Changer Award: Martin Juarez – Honored for his innovative PD Fight Club, transforming lives of individuals with Parkinson’s Disease through boxing and community support.
Servant Leadership Award: Melinda MeGahee – Celebrated for empowering over 14,000 women through The Lovelady Center, transforming lives with compassion and purpose.

Cynthia Cardona, president & CEO of Vulcan Park Foundation, shared her gratitude for the community’s unwavering support and this year’s exceptional slate of honorees:

“This year’s Vulcans Community Awards embodied everything we stand for at Vulcan Park Foundation—preservation, progress, and pride. Our honorees are a testament to Birmingham’s strength and resilience. Their work inspires us to build on Vulcan’s legacy, advancing our mission to educate, engage, and elevate our city. Together, we ensure Vulcan remains a towering symbol of our collective spirit for generations to come.”

The funds raised will directly support the Foundation’s educational programs, community events, and exhibitions that highlight Birmingham’s rich and diverse history.

As Birmingham’s most prestigious recognition of civic pride, leadership, and progress, the Vulcans Community Awards reflect the heart of what makes our city exceptional. The Vulcan Park Foundation invites the community to continue supporting its mission through visits to Vulcan Park & Museum, participation in events, and contributions that sustain its vital work.