UNCF: An Evening of Stars Tribute Honoring Floyd and Norma Young

Floyd and Norma Young, owners of FDY, Inc. were recognized Friday evening for their outpouring of love to not only the Charlotte community, but to all, particularly those seeking a higher education.

Marilyn Baldwin Richards and the UNCF an Evening of Stars Tribute Leadership Committee didn’t have to look hard to determine who should receive the 2011 tribute. Richards has never asked Floyd and Norma Young for anything to benefit UNCF and they said no. The Young’s take to heart the old adage, “To whom much is given much is required.” By bestowing blessings on others they continue to be blessed.

Friends, family, and recipients of the Young’s kind deeds came from near and far to say thank you again, and simply just acknowledge the quiet philanthropist acts bestowed upon many.

Colleges, universities, and the community at-large benefit not only from the wholesome food provided, but the employment opportunities, and business advice shared.

Floyd Young is most often a quiet man – and to him this evening was extremely warming.

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“And a child shall lead them” is such a wonderful biblical phrase – and it holds true for the beginning of the life Floyd and Norma Young have enjoyed for fifty years.

At about five-years old, Keith Haywood, the son of Norma Edelen, a single mother, was enrolled in Flanner House Community Outreach and Child Development Center in Indianapolis, Indiana. With his aunt, Ida Edelen on staff as a social worker, Norma knew this was the ideal environment for Keith.

Making life as easy as possible for sister-in-law Norma, a health care professional in the Indiana hospital system who worked long hours, Ida tried to lighten Norma’s load.

Ida knew Flanner House had just given Floyd Young, a recent graduate of Prairie View A&M University with a degree in Industrial Education, an opportunity to start his career as their food service manager. She also knew Floyd and Norma both lived on the Southside of Indianapolis. Floyd could easily give little Keith a ride to-and-from school and save Norma from the hustle and bustle of getting across town.

Ida made the introduction, and Floyd made the adjustment – putting a little seat in the front of his van just for Keith. That kind deed probably came from his Brenham, Texas up-bringing.
Before long, Ida and husband Maurice and Norma and Floyd became very dear friends. Friendly enough, that Maurice sanctioned the marriage of Floyd to his sister Norma. After retirement Maurice even assisted in their business ventures.

Shortly after gaining practical experience at Flanner House, Floyd met Nathaniel R. Goldston, III and is one of the founding members and vice president of Gourmet Services, Inc., of which Goldston is now CEO. This long lasting friendship is why Goldston chartered a plane to get to Charlotte on time for the special UNCF tribute to the Young’s.

Young’s recruitment to serve as head of Johnson C. Smith University’s food service program most likely aided in his desire to help students in need. Management positions with the Southern Region, Sedexo, Inc, formerly Marriot companies, plus continuously gaining education, prepared him for his ultimate goal. In 1982 Floyd D. Young founded FDY, Inc.

An exceptional first-classed food service prepared to give superb catered service from a private party of two to a premier banquet of thousands best describes FDY, Inc. But more importantly to FDY, Inc’s management team – they employ and train a qualified staff. Many that they employ work at the HBCU’s they serve: Johnson C. Smith University, Livingstone College, Bennett College for Women, Howard University, North Carolina Central University, North Carolina A&T University, and South Carolina State University.

A trail of education, business affiliations and memberships, awards, scholarship presentations, and deeds of philanthropy are why Floyd and Norma Young received the UNCF tribute. Love and commitment to a lasting relationship are why they were graced with an outpouring of love for “50” years of marital bliss.

By Fran Farrer
The County News