Larry Bailey served the Town of Clayton, and the entire Clayton Community for many years. His primary area of impact revolved around recreational opportunities for everyone. Larry was selfless in giving of his own time, and money, to create opportunities for everyone in the Clayton community to participate in recreational opportunities. He was also instrumental in growing the parks and greenway system in our community to provide more opportunities for recreation.

The Larry Bailey Community Service Award was created to honor Larry’s impact over many years in the community, to raise awareness of the Clayton Community Recreation Foundation (CCRF), and to highlight the impact of others within our community that are also making a positive impact.

Nominations are now being received by the Clayton Community Recreational Foundation (CCRF). If you wish to apply or know someone deserving of this honor, please complete and submit the nomination form below to CCRF by September 24, 2021. The winner will be honored at the Town of Clayton Fall Festival on Saturday, October 23, 2021.

Past Winners

2020 – Benny Langdon

Benny Langdon is an active member of the Clayton Civitan Club since 1993. Benny is committed to the club’s efforts to support Johnston County Special Olympics and is Chair of Long-Range Planning Committee, with focus on Special Olympics and special-needs recreational programming. His commitment is to provide access to youth recreation programs for all youth in the Clayton community, particularly the underserved.

Benny is retired from the NC Department of Corrections and his career focus and passion was to grant access to optimal mental health services in the criminal justice system. His favorite pastime includes family time, especially time with grand kids, golf, fishing, and grilling.

2019 – Chris Archer

Chris Archer, MLB baseball player and pitcher with the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The two-time All-star and nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award, was born and raised in the Triangle. The Clayton native began his professional baseball career with the Durham Bulls before being called up with the Tampa Bay Rays.

In 2013, Chris founded the Archway Foundation to give back to his community. Beginning with the expression of “Unconditional Love”, Archway is dedicated to partnering with organizations who focus on improving the lives of young people especially homeless teens.

The Archway Foundation’s mission is to support organizations who focus on improving the lives of young people.

Chris gives generously of his time and other resources because of his passion for making a difference. He has experienced first-hand the difference Unconditional Love can make in the life of a young person.

2018 – Leigh Hudson

Leigh Hudson has been a tireless contributor to the community of Clayton for his entire life. Leigh is a past president and governor of the local Clayton Rotary Club. Leigh has helped to build handicap accessible ramps, push to eradicate polio, eliminate drugs, all while running a successful hardware store, Hudson’s Hardware & Outdoor Equipment in Garner and Clayton, NC.

One of the best qualities that Leigh Hudson possesses is what he does when nobody is looking. He is a man of impeccable character that is always available to lend a helping hand when his fellow citizen needs it.

Nomination Form

    Please complete the form and submit by September 24, 2021.

    Nominee Information

    Nominator Information

    Award Criteria

    Building Our Community through Giving
    & Partnership

    Let’s Come Together