Community Service Merit Awards

2026 Community Service Merit Award Winner

Chad Echols

Chad Echols exemplifies quiet, consistent leadership through his wide-ranging service across Rock Hill and York County. His leadership includes over a decade of service to the Come-See-Me Festival as a Team Leader, Vice-Chair, the 2019 Chair, and serving on the Board of Governors. Chad currently serves on the Board of Directors for the YMCA of Upper Palmetto. He also works closely with YMCA Camp Cherokee where he helped found the Cherokee Conservation Corps to support the camp. The Cherokee Conservation Corps, in concert with the YMCA, recently completed construction of a new ten thousand (10,000) square foot recreation hall at YMCA Camp Cherokee. He recently completed two terms with the Anne Springs Close Greenway Board of Managers and is now joining the board for the York County Community Foundation. Chad currently serves on the Board of Trustees for Clinton College as the college works to strengthen its town and gown relationship with the Rock Hill Community. Chad is ordained as an Elder at Oakland Avenue Presbyterian Church where he has served on the Session in various capacities. As a trusted legal professional and community leader, Chad brings clarity, integrity, and thoughtful decision-making to organizations that support youth, families, education, and environmental stewardship. He also fosters a culture of service within his law firm, mentoring young professionals and encouraging civic engagement. Chad’s steady presence, generosity of time and expertise, and ability to bring people together have strengthened the fabric of the community to help ensure positive long-term impacts for generations to come.

2026 Community Service Merit Award Winner

Tynetta Moore

Tynetta Moore is a trusted leader, connector, and innovator whose work has strengthened Rock Hill, particularly the Southside, through authentic, service driven leadership. A Rock Hill native, Tynetta serves as a vital bridge between residents, local organizations, and the city, ensuring community voices are heard and needs are addressed. As co-owner of New What’s Up Rock Hill, a digital platform reaching thousands of residents, she provides timely information, resources, and opportunities that empower the community. Known as “The Tech Auntie,” Tynetta promotes digital literacy, positive digital citizenship, and accessible technology education, including AI awareness. Through partnerships with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, Carolina Community Action, and Rock Hill Neighborhood Services, she creates access where resources are limited and inspires civic engagement. Tynetta’s leadership activates service in others, helping shape a more informed, connected, and confident Rock Hill.

2026 Community Service Merit Award Winner

Trina Perry

Trina Perry is a dedicated community servant whose years of faithful service have supported individuals and families across Rock Hill and York County. Her work spans disability advocacy, senior services, youth programs, and civic engagement through organizations such as the Rock Hill Branch of the NAACP, the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities, and the York County Council on Aging. A leader within the Theta Eta Sigma Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated, Trina uses her financial expertise to strengthen organizations while actively volunteering in food drives, back to school initiatives, women’s health programs, and community events. She has played a key role in initiatives such as the Back2School Block Party, Special Olympics events, and senior support programs. Through her compassion, consistency, and example, often volunteering alongside her daughter, Trina has inspired others to serve and has helped build a stronger, more caring community.

2026 Community Service Merit Award Winner

Shelma Scales

Shelma Scales is a tireless servant leader whose dedication to helping others is felt daily throughout the Rock Hill community. She volunteers three to four days each week with Manna House Food Pantry, where she prepares food bags, stocks shelves, and helps distribute groceries to families in need. In addition, Shelma plays a vital role at the Dorothy Day Soup Kitchen, recruiting volunteers and leading monthly efforts to prepare and serve hot meals, particularly for the unhoused. A committed member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Shelma also serves through her church’s new members ministry, welcoming and supporting those seeking community and faith. Known for her hands on leadership, Shelma inspires others by example, mentoring volunteers and building dedicated teams that extend her impact. Her unwavering commitment, generosity, and energy embody the spirit of service that strengthens the community every day.

2026 Community Service Merit Award Winner

Perry Sutton

Perry Sutton is a lifelong advocate for youth, community development, and public service in Rock Hill. A retired Coast Guard officer and recently completing multiple terms as Rock Hill City Councilman, Perry has devoted decades to mentoring young people, particularly through youth football, where he has influenced countless lives and encouraged others to step into coaching and leadership roles. His work has been instrumental in the revitalization of Rock Hill’s Southside, including efforts tied to McGirt Auditorium, Armory Park, and the future Southside Regional Park. Perry also helped establish the Southside Ambassador Program, empowering residents to become informed leaders and resources within their own neighborhoods. Whether working with youth, seniors, or families, Perry’s service reflects a deep commitment to putting others first and strengthening the community he proudly serves.