Turning a Lottery Win Into Lasting Community Change

Born and raised in Winston-Salem, Clark Chavous has always had a deep love for her hometown and its people. “Mom was big on church and volunteering growing up,” she reminisces. “So, I tagged along, lending a hand wherever I could. School, too, was full of activities and programs that kept me involved and connected."

Winning the North Carolina COVID-19 vaccine lottery in 2020 came as a complete shock. She discovered her win by checking her email after a long day’s work. “At first I was awestruck, but I was quickly compelled to do something charitable with the winnings and use my platform to advocate on behalf of my community.”

Deciding how to distribute the money to charitable causes wasn’t simple. That’s when she turned to The Winston-Salem Foundation for help. “From my very first meeting with the Foundation staff, I could tell that everyone genuinely cared about what they were doing. They became my guides, showing me how to make a difference in my community. I’ve learned a lot from them and built a strong trust.”

To Clark, philanthropy isn’t just about giving money—it’s about using her voice to inspire and uplift others. “Through interviews and public appearances, I learned to speak up for what I believe in, and I hope to inspire others to do the same.”

Through her partnership with the Foundation, Clark made a significant gift to the Black Philanthropy Initiative and established a scholarship fund for African American students who attend historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). “I felt inclined to focus my giving in a way that strengthens Black communities in Winston-Salem.”

“This journey has given me many powerful opportunities and the chance to meet great people who also care deeply about Winston-Salem. With the lessons learned and the connections I’ve made, I’m determined to keep making a positive impact in my community.”

As she approaches her final year at Fayetteville State University, Clark is eager to continue building up the community around her and take the next steps to grow her career as a family and marriage counselor. “This journey has given me many powerful opportunities and the chance to meet great people who also care deeply about Winston-Salem. With the lessons learned and the connections I’ve made, I’m determined to keep making a positive impact in my community.”