New Bern attorney Leigh Wilkinson is being recognized for her efforts to make a difference in her community.
She was selected as one of Craven County's "52 Faces of Community." This recognition, based on peer nominations, honors volunteers and unsung heroes working to improve the lives of fellow residents.
Leigh was specifically nominated for her work with Civitan Clubs throughout the area. Her service was highlighted in an article appearing in the New Bern Sun Journal. The story was also accompanied by a one-minute video of Leigh talking about her work with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Other highlights from the article include:
Leigh on how moving to New Bern changed her outlook
“When I first came to New Bern, I was single, didn’t know anybody and had never been here in my life,” said Leigh. “I specialize in healthcare. People go, ‘oh, do you sue doctors?’ No. Because they take Medicare and Medicaid payments—government payments—they have a lot of regulations that they have to comply, so I help with regulatory compliance.”
A coworker who was on the board of Big Brothers Big Sisters convinced her to become a Big Sister. She sponsored a girl in middle school whose mother was doing her best to support her children, working three jobs while attending Craven Community College. Leigh was a true inspiration, which earned her a Big Sister of the Year award in 1990.
Becoming a charter member and club builder with the We Can Civitan Club
“The main impetus for the creation of the club was that over the years, Civitan and its members had always directed their service efforts to helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” said Leigh. “But we realized that this group of people we were serving also had a lot to give, and we wanted to focus on what they can do rather than what they—or any of us—cannot do.”
These are just two of many examples of Leigh's dedication to her community. You can read more about her volunteerism online, here, or pick up a copy of the New Bern Sun Journal on newsstands today.
