The Town of Cary, North Carolina, has named three finalists for its 2025 Hometown Spirit Award. This annual award recognizes a resident who improves the quality of life in Cary by supporting positive community values. The finalists are Matthew Gronke, Nancy Haywood, and Carla Michaels. They were nominated and selected by Cary residents for their community work.
Matthew Gronke has lived in Cary since 1992. He founded the Cary Free Bicycle Project and has donated over 250 bicycles to local residents. Gronke serves as a board member and treasurer of Triangle Off-Road Cyclists, helps maintain local trails, and volunteers at Laurel Park Elementary as Vice President of Fundraising and as the school mascot. He also volunteers at the Cary Library and nonprofit events, and supports bicycle infrastructure improvements.
Nancy Haywood is a member of the Cary-Kildaire Rotary Club and sponsors the Interact Club at Cary High School. She mentors students in leadership and volunteer activities. Haywood has worked with local nonprofits, organized food drives, and assisted families in need…