Eliada Foster Parent Recognized at NAACP Awards

Martha K. Gardenhight is the recipient of the sixth annual NAACP Sophie Dixon & Grace Dorn Leadership Award.

ASHEVILLE – November 2007 – The Asheville branch of the NAACP has awarded Mrs. Martha K. Gardenhight the sixth annual NAACP Sophie Dixon & Grace Dorn Leadership Award. The award is given to women who “exemplify the qualities of action and influence of leadership in the Asheville Community”. Mrs. Gardenhight was recognized for her untiring work for the people of Asheville, with special emphasis on children and the elderly.

Mrs. Gardenhight and her husband Billy have provided Therapeutic Foster Care for approximately 60-65 young people over the last 22 years. In accepting the award, Martha said, “I came from a large family and I know firsthand how difficult some situations can be in life. This is why I never forget where I came from. I made a vow to God that if he blessed me to raise my children, I would help others and give something back.” She has fulfilled this promise through offering a loving home to children in need since 1986.

According to Joe Hammond of Eliada’s foster care program, “Martha has been a foster parent with Eliada for many years.  She has continued to give back to her community by helping children in need.  Martha provides a safe, structured, and caring home for teenage boys.  She has been open to caring for some of the more difficult therapeutic boys.” He went on to say that  “Martha has always been fair with what is expected in her home and she will go above and beyond to help her boys to reach their fullest potential.  Martha is a living example of Eliada's core values of Faith, Hope & Love, Integrity, Teamwork, and Excellence.”

About Eliada
Eliada is a 105 year old non-profit agency serving North Carolina’s children and families. Founded in 1903 by Dr. Lucius Compton as a home for women and children, Eliada’s full service continuum includes NAEYC accredited Child Development Services (Pre School, After School, Summer Camp, More at Four); Residential and Day Treatment for children and adolescents; In Home services; Foster Care and Therapeutic Foster Care; and Therapeutic Recreation services. The agency enters its second century with pride, committed to the fulfillment of its mission statement: Helping Children Succeed.