Family connects our Person of the Week to Tools for Schools

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — Our Person of the Week is among the dozens of volunteers who turned out to Wednesday's Tools for Schools drive--but she has a special connection to the cause..

"It's just little things they need, pens, paper and that kind of stuff," said Kim Dawson.

She works for Great Beginnings and Great Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, one of Eblen Charities' vital partners. And she's especially committed to the cause because of her family ties.

"When my children grew up, they became school teachers. And we have always been involved in schools and sports and everything. And this is near and dear to our heart," she said.

Her son Matthew is a teacher and coach at Enka High, while daughter Katie works at Shining Rock Classical Academy in Haywood County.

"My daughter's an elementary school teacher, and the supplies they go through and the teachers that have to buy themselves is astronomical," Dawson said.

Which explains why she has a keen understanding of the need.

"We feel like we can do a better job in helping the community by working with Eblen."

Dawson has a passion for helping kids get what they need to start the year. And every year at Tools for Schools drive, something special happens.

"And it's amazing how many walks of life really care, and come in and bring stuff for these kids," she said.

For all the people who rush to donate school supplies, there's a team of volunteers on hand to take them. Kim Dawson just happens to do it with lots of humor.

"Oh, I love people'" she said. "I can talk to anybody!"

What donors get in return, is a big greeting--and sometimes, a coupon for a free waffle.

The chance to help has her all smiles, with a few giggles in between.