After beginning his career in Chattanooga, Ralph moved to Raleigh in 1973 to become Executive Director of the Raleigh Boys Club. The Raleigh Boys Club had approximately 200 members and one building on Lane Street. Today, seven full-service clubs serve nearly 5,000 young people each year through the organization now known as the Boys & Girls Clubs of Wake County.

The mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. The clubs provide youngsters from disadvantaged backgrounds a safe place to learn and grow, ongoing relationships with caring, adult professionals, life-enhancing programs, character development experiences, hope and opportunity.

WakeEd has been presenting this award since 1990 to an individual who has made significant contributions to our community and shares qualities of the late Senator Vernon Malone who advocated tirelessly for every child to have equitable opportunities. Recipients of this award set a high standard for selfless dedication— moving from words to deeds that have a lasting impact. Ralph Capps is being honored for his incredible 50+ years of leadership serving the children of Wake County.