Erin Clark Receives Rising Star Award During 23rd Annual People's Choice Awards

The Community Foundation of Washington County MD, Inc. has awarded Erin Clark, as a part of the 23rd Annual People’s Choice Awards, with a Rising Star Award.

This award honors an individual, under forty years of age, from the community who demonstrates a commitment to volunteer service. In their honor, a $1,000 contribution from the Community Foundation is made to the charity or charities of this recipient’s choice.

Clark is a fervent volunteer for organizations United Way of Washington County, Humane Society of Washington County, Leadership Washington County, youth athletics, Smithsburg athletics fundraising, her kids’ PTA, and more. A Mount St. Mary’s graduate, she’s also a successful audit manager employed by SEK CPAs & Advisors, and a GLOW mentor for Washington County Public Schools Education Foundation, where she teaches financial literacy classes to local high school students.

“I was so impressed by not just her commitment and dedication, but also that she stood by us through everything. With someone of her caliber, she could have served on any board, but my gosh – she chose us. She didn’t just stay around, she took control when she needed to,” said United Way of Washington County President & CEO Heather Guessford, who was on hand to support Clark.

“Erin really jumped in and helped us when we were in times of sheer confusion over what’s next. She was so committed to us, that she took on a famous dog, Hope,” said Humane Society of Washington County Executive Director Colin Berry.

“This is where I grew up. This is home to me, and it’s some place that means a lot to me. Growing up, I spent a lot of time with my grandmother… she never hesitated to give whatever she could to anyone in need. Whether that was throwing her last bit of change into the Salvation Army bucket at Christmas, or supporting everyone even though she didn’t have a lot of extra income to do that,” says Clark.

Two organizations were chosen by Clark to receive an equal portion of the $1,000 awarded: United Way of Washington County, and Humane Society of Washington County.