NourishNC presented its Lifetime Achievement Award to Slice of Life pizza restaurant owner Ray Worrell, according to a news release.
The release described Worrell as "a dedicated and inspiring volunteer whose unwavering commitment and extraordinary efforts have left an indelible mark on the community, NourishNC and the families they serve. For nearly 10 years, Ray has been a beacon of compassion and service, consistently going above and beyond to support the mission of ending childhood hunger."
In 2017, NourishNC celebrated Worrell as its Volunteer of the Year.
NourishNC Executive Director Steve McCrosssan stated in the release, “From serving on NourishNC’s board to volunteering in the warehouse to leading the construction of our new facility, Ray has literally done it all. His exceptional leadership, energy and generosity have strengthened NourishNC and inspired countless others to join our cause.”
Worrell, a UNCW graduate, owns 4 Slice of Life Pizza locations in the Wilmington area, and his wife owns the Green House Restaurant which features a plant-based menu.
Among other activities, he serves on the Ocean Friendly Establishments Committee, launched out of concern about the overwhelming amount of plastics polluting the Earth. He is very active in the Wrightsville Beach Outrigger Canoe Club and was awarded the club's Volunteer of the Year award in 2022. Worrell has also participated in the Mustaches for Kids campaign and served on the Municipal Services District Advisory Committee.
NourishNC is a 501(c)3 nonprofit whose mission is to “provide healthy food to hungry children, empowering them to succeed in the classroom and in their community.”