Grand Canyon here we come!

ASHEBORO — Jeff Harris has been giving to United Way of Randolph County for years. On Dec. 19, all those donations were returned in the form of a new Nissan Versa.

Harris was one of 10 finalists in the United Way Car Give-Away at Asheboro AutoMall. The finalists were picked from those who had contributed at least $100 to the annual campaign. 

All 10 were given keys but only one fit the Versa’s driver’s side doorlock.

Harris was the fourth to try his luck and was rewarded when the key turned and the door opened. “I can’t believe it,” he said. “It’s an amazing feeling. I’m glad to have a job good enough for me to help (in the United Way cause).

“I’ve been working (at Randolph Electric Membership Corporation) for almost 37 years and giving to United Way as long as they’ve been doing it. I think it’s a great cause.”

Asked what he would do with the 2024 Versa, Harris said it’s a Christmas present to his wife, Whitney.

Whitney was as excited as Jeff about winning the car. “I couldn’t believe it when the key turned,” she said. “It’s crazy.

“We’ve been looking to get a new car for vacations. We’ll take it on trips.” She said they would like to visit the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone National Park, among other sites.

Samantha Baker, executive director of United Way of Randolph County, said the current campaign goal of $600,000 is now at $543,000. When the goal is reached, she said, they’ll be able to support some 51,000 people in Randolph County.

Chris Lackey, owner of the AutoMall and son of Dan Lackey who founded the company, said this was the 18th year they’ve sponsored the giveaway. “We want to continue as long as we can. It’s super important to me and my family.” He added that the dealership will again “handle the sales tax” for the winner.

Besides Harris, the other finalists were:

— Jamie Raino of Sapona Yarns.

— Amy Rudisill of Randolph County Government.

— Allen Creed of the City of Asheboro.

— Travis Phillips of the City of Asheboro.

— Christine Whitehead of Technimark.

— Donna Avelino of Randolph Hospital.

— John Green of the City of Asheboro.

— Neal Comer of The Timken Company.

— Bounthong Sinpaseuth of the City of Asheboro.