Union County 911 telecommunicators Kelly Laton and Michael Mulligan have been selected as recipients of the County’s annual Caught in the Act Team Award, recognizing their extraordinary efforts to support western North Carolina communities impacted by Hurricane Helene. The annual award honors a team of two or more employees who were nominated for demonstrating exceptional commitment by going above and beyond their normal job responsibilities. The recognition program encourages employees to acknowledge peers who make a meaningful difference across the organization and community.

911 Operations Manager Susan Furr nominated Laton and Mulligan in early 2025. They organized the "Warmth for Yancey County" drive after Hurricane Helene created urgent needs across western North Carolina. Recognizing that many residents were without heat during cold weather, the pair coordinated a countywide collection for electric heaters and blankets. Donation drop-off locations were set up at multiple fire stations and the Emergency Services Center. These efforts helped gather critical supplies for affected families. Laton and Mulligan also made two trips to western North Carolina to deliver two truckloads of donated supplies directly to communities in need.

"Your acts of kindness, selflessness and empathy have had a profound impact on the lives of those affected," Furr wrote in her nomination. "We are incredibly proud to have you as part of our team."

County Management selected Laton and Mulligan for the annual Caught in the Act Team Award among dozens of nominations received throughout 2025.

“Kelly and Michael demonstrated the compassion, leadership and dedication that define public service,” said Deputy County Manager Patrick Niland. “Their willingness to organize this effort and personally deliver supplies made a meaningful impact during a difficult time for many families. They truly exemplify the spirit of this award program.”

The Caught in the Act program is open to all full-time and part-time employees. Staff are encouraged to recognize coworkers for exceptional service and teamwork. As recipients of the team award, Laton and Mulligan each received two additional paid vacation days in recognition of their efforts.