As the holiday season invites us to reflect on gratitude, I am deeply thankful for the many blessings that surround us—my family, a beautiful community of friends, and a hardworking, hope-filled Board of Directors. The Step Forward community continually inspires me with the way you open your hearts and your hands to help others. Together, we lift students, strengthen families, and make the world around us a little brighter.
When we lead with compassion, there is enough—enough hope, opportunity, and kindness—to meet the needs before us. Thank you for sharing your generosity and spirit with Step Forward. You remind me every day that gratitude grows when it is shared.
With heartfelt thanks,
Nancy Broaddus, President SFSF
IN
THIS
ISSUE
Honoring Our Generous Donors
Celebrating Our Scholarship Recipients
SFSF Annual Report at a Glance
Giving Tuesday is Here
Volunteer and Make a Difference!
Honoring Our Generous Donors
The Step Forward Scholarship Fund seeks to provide financial support to qualifying Governors Club employees and their minor dependents to help them achieve their education and career aspirations.
We are profoundly grateful for our donors and sponsors, whose generosity is the lifeline that makes our mission possible. Their unwavering support allows us to continue our vital work and create a lasting, positive impact for so many families.
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Reflections of Spain with Reilley Hegeman
A 2025 SFSF Scholarship Winner Majoring in Cardiovascular Technology
The five weeks I spent in southern Spain changed me in ways I cannot fully put into words. From the first day, I was challenged, stretched and pushed beyond what I thought were my limits. Every street I walked, every conversation I had, every new experience required me to step outside my comfort zone. Living there forced me to rely on myself, to face uncertainty, and to discover strengths I didn't know I had.
“Since receiving the SFSF scholarship, I’ve moved back home to Buffalo, N.Y., where I’ve built a rewarding career as a physical therapist in home health. My husband and I have restored a beautiful old home, and we’re now excitedly awaiting the best Christmas gift of all — our first child! I’m so grateful for the support I received during my time at GC and UNC Chapel Hill, which helped make all of this possible.”
Brianna Colello George
Scholarship Recipient 2019-2021
“While an employee at Governors Club and an undergraduate student at UNC’s Kenan-Flagler Business School, the Step Forward Scholarship Fund made my senior year study abroad experience possible. What began as a class opportunity became a moment of real growth -- pushing me to lead, step outside my comfort zone, and see the world through a broader lens. The experience deepened my appreciation for connection, culture, and community, and it continues to guide the way I lead and engage with others, both personally and professionally. I’m deeply grateful to the Governors Club community for believing in students like me and for helping make experiences like mine possible.”
Haley Hanks
Scholarship Recipient 2023-2024
“Step Forward has given me an immense amount of things to be grateful for: The scholarship and its mentors allowed me to be the first person in my family to attend college and graduate debt-free. Without this scholarship, I would not be where I am now; a proud App State alum. I am especially grateful to Janie Butler and Bill Wallace, who have been exceptionally supportive throughout my whole journey. They were always there for me during my time in college and continue to be there for me while I navigate having a full-time job now! Because of the generosity of Step Forward, I am encouraged to give back to my community in the same way as you all have given to me. Governors Club and SFSF will always have a special place in my heart. And for that I am eternally grateful.”
Oliva Sanchez Castillo
Scholarship Recipient 2021-2025
A glimpse into everyday moments of our scholarship recipients sharing laughter, friendship, and the joy that fuels their dreams beyond the classroom.
SFSF Annual Report at a Glance
2025 to Date
Total amount of donations $157,358
Total number of donors 79
Total scholarships/Internship stipends/fees: 29
7 to employees:
22 to dependents of employees
13 new to the program
16 repeat applicants
Total awarded: $144,500
Average award: $5,000
One $12,000 "Governors Scholarship" Award
Two awards from our "Legacy" Program
Recipients from:
Administration
Dining Services
Maintenance
Golf Shop
Racquet Sports
Wellness
Food Services
2019 - 2025
Total scholarships/Internship stipends/fees: 134
75 to employees
59 to dependents of employees
Total awarded: $685,000
Average award: $5,100
Award range: $500 to $14,500
Five "Governors Scholarship" Awards
Two awards from our "Legacy" Program
Recipients from every GC department
More than 250 GC members have donated
ALL individual donations go 100% to recipients
Equivalent of one year of awards in cash reserve
December 2 is Giving Tuesday
We’re rallying support to propel the SFSF mission forward. Join us for a global day of generosity that’s shaping up to be our most impactful yet.
With your invaluable support, SFSF Governors Club employees and their families are building brighter futures through education and career advancement.
Ways to Give
PayPal or credit card through the SFSF website. Just click the button below:
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2. Mail your donation to:
3. Donations can be dropped off in the Governors Club lobby.
Be an Active Part
of Something Extraordinary!
We’re seeking passionate individuals to join our Committees and help drive the SFSF mission—empowering Governors Club employees and their families to "step forward" to life-changing opportunities.
Financial contributions are vital to our work. Active involvement offers an even deeper reward—the personal fulfillment of giving your time, energy, and heart.
To learn more, please contact the individuals listed below.
