Wilkes Chamber Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The Foundation was established to fund economic development, education, and special projects. One major focus is to provide educational opportunities for youth, develop leadership skills, and foster a commitment to community service.

The Wilkes Chamber Foundation partners with Wilkes County Schools supporting programs established and administered by each of these organizations.

United Teens in Action (UTA) is a youth leadership program for high school juniors from all five Wilkes County high schools, designed to enhance civic engagement, leadership skills, and community awareness. Through hands-on experiences, group collaboration, and community service projects, students develop personal leadership qualities while building relationships across school lines. A partnership between the Wilkes Chamber Foundation, Wilkes Communications/RiverStreet Networks, Wilkes County Schools, and Leading to Change, UTA empowers students to make a positive impact in their schools and communities.

Principal and Teacher of the Year - Awards presented in May of each year are a time of recognition and celebration of Wilkes County principals and teachers. Wilkes Chamber Foundation awards the principal and teacher of the year with a financial gift of $500 annually. This annual event, held at the Stone Family Performing Arts Center, highlights the selected teachers and principals nominated from each Wilkes County school and the Wilkes Early College. The selection committee determines the winners based on the teacher’s respect and admiration of their colleagues.

For the second year, the Tory Oak Project gave 60 Wilkes Early College 10th graders an immersive look at Wilkes County’s history, economy, industries, and recreation. Students visited over 20 sites, explored local career and entrepreneurial opportunities, and created Wilkes-based business plans, which they pitched to a panel of judges.

Contributions to the Wilkes Chamber Foundation are tax deductible. Wilkes Educational Golf Tournament, held annually, is a fundraiser for the educational efforts of the foundation. Chamber members have an opportunity to contribute directly to the foundation by including a gift when renewing their annual membership investments.

Thanks for supporting the Chamber Foundation!