The Rotary Club of Salisbury, in its 106th year of service to the community, has recognized Keith and Lora Adkins of Salisbury, Maryland as the recipients of its prestigious Four-Way Test Award. The award is presented annually to non-Rotarians whose lives exemplify the tenants of the Rotary Four-Way Test that asks persons of the things they think, say, or do:
- Is it the Truth?
- Is it Fair to all concerned?
- Will it build Goodwill and better Friendships?
- Will it be beneficial to all concerned?
Mr. and Mrs. Adkins formed Santa’s Angels, a charitable organization, in 1989, in response to a moment of realization involving their daughters, Amanda and Nicole, who were 14 and 9 years old at the time. The Adkins family noticed that their children struggled to comprehend just how fortunate they were in comparison to others, not fully understanding that many people, especially those less fortunate, didn’t have the same blessings or opportunities that they did.
This awareness prompted Mr. and Mrs. Adkins to create the charity, Santa’s Angels, to help their daughters recognize the importance of giving back and to make a difference in the lives of others who may not be as fortunate. For the past 35 years, Santa’s Angels has been bringing Christmas joy to families in need across the Eastern Shore of Maryland and Delaware. What began as a small, humble operation, with Keith playing the role of Santa and Amanda and Nicole serving as his elves, helping just three families in Wicomico County, has grown into a large-scale community effort that now serves more than 150 families annually.
More than 300 volunteers, ranging from local church groups, service organizations, firemen, teachers, businesses, and individuals, come together each year to ensure the charity’s success. Their goal is simple but powerful: to ensure that every family, no matter its background or circumstances, can experience the magic of Christmas, filled with love, warmth, and the spirit of giving.
A list of all recipients of the Rotary Club of Salisbury Four-Way Test Award since 1963 is at www.rotarysalisbury.org.
