Charlotte, NC, February 13, 2026
Charlotte is honoring the legacy of journalist Steve Crump with ongoing fundraising efforts by ‘Team Crump WBTV.’ The initiative, now in its second year, seeks to raise funds for causes Crump passionately supported, including colon cancer awareness. Crump’s impactful journalism and mentorship have left a lasting mark on the community, making these efforts a fitting tribute to his dedication.
Charlotte Continues to Honor Journalist Steve Crump with Ongoing Fundraising Efforts
Charlotte, NC – The spirit and enduring legacy of renowned journalist and documentarian Steve Crump continue to be celebrated in Charlotte, as “Team Crump WBTV” prepares for its second consecutive year of fundraising in his honor. This initiative serves to commemorate Crump’s profound impact on the community and the field of journalism, while also raising vital funds for causes he championed during his lifetime. The commitment to carry forward his work comes after his passing in August 2023 following a courageous battle with colon cancer.
A Legacy of Storytelling and Advocacy
Steve Crump, who dedicated nearly four decades of his distinguished career to local news and documentary filmmaking, was a cherished figure in Charlotte and beyond. He joined WBTV in 1984, leaving an indelible mark through his tireless efforts to tell nuanced stories, particularly those focusing on the African American experience and civil rights issues. His extensive body of work includes more than 20 documentary films that explore significant moments in history, such as the legacy of the Friendship Nine, the story of Smoketown, and the Black history of the banjo. These documentaries often garnered widespread recognition, with many going into national distribution to PBS stations.
Crump’s dedication extended beyond reporting. He was known for his integrity, community impact, and mentorship of aspiring journalists. Throughout his career, he received numerous accolades, including the National Association of Black Journalists’ Journalist of Distinction Award in 2016, acknowledging his in-depth coverage of topics important to the African Diaspora. He also earned multiple regional Emmy Awards and was recognized with the Martin Luther King Jr. Medallion in 2013 for his work in promoting racial equality and social justice.
Championing Colon Cancer Awareness
In July 2018, Crump was diagnosed with colon cancer, a battle he fought with remarkable resilience until his passing on August 31, 2023. Even while undergoing treatment, he leveraged his platform to raise awareness about colon cancer, urging the community, especially African Americans, to get screened. He openly shared his journey, highlighting the symptoms and risk factors, emphasizing the importance of early detection and treatment.
His advocacy became a personal mission, aiming to educate and encourage proactive health measures to combat the disease that affects thousands each year. Crump’s work in this area underscored his profound commitment to public service and the well-being of the community he served.
Continuing the Mission in His Memory
The “Team Crump WBTV” initiative stands as a testament to the lasting influence of Steve Crump. By continuing these fundraising efforts for a second straight year, the team ensures that his dedication to storytelling, community engagement, and public health awareness lives on. While specific details regarding the date, location, and precise beneficiary of the 2026 fundraising event are still being developed or are forthcoming, the overarching goal remains clear: to honor Crump’s memory and contribute to the fight against colon cancer, a cause he so passionately championed. The ongoing efforts are a reflection of the deep respect and admiration the community holds for Crump’s indelible contributions to journalism and society.
Frequently Asked Questions about Steve Crump’s Legacy
Here are answers to common questions regarding Steve Crump and the ongoing efforts in his memory:
- Who was Steve Crump?
- Steve Crump was a renowned journalist and documentarian who worked primarily in Charlotte, NC, for nearly four decades. He was known for telling nuanced stories, particularly those focusing on the African American experience and civil rights issues.
- What was Steve Crump’s cause of death?
- Steve Crump passed away on August 31, 2023, following a battle with colon cancer.
- What is the purpose of the ‘Team Crump WBTV’ initiative?
- The ‘Team Crump WBTV’ initiative continues its fundraising efforts for a second straight year to commemorate Steve Crump’s profound impact on the community and journalism, and to raise vital funds for causes he championed, likely including colon cancer awareness and research.
- What were some of Steve Crump’s journalistic achievements?
- Steve Crump produced over 20 documentary films on civil rights issues, many of which received national distribution. He was the recipient of the National Association of Black Journalists’ Journalist of Distinction Award in 2016 and multiple regional Emmy Awards.
- Did Steve Crump advocate for any specific health causes?
- Yes, after his colon cancer diagnosis in July 2018, Steve Crump actively used his platform to raise awareness about colon cancer, advocating for screening and early detection, especially within the African American community.
Key Aspects of Steve Crump’s Legacy and the Commemorative Initiative
| Feature | Description | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Honored Individual | Steve Crump, a distinguished journalist and documentarian. | Local, Regional, Nationwide recognition for work |
| Primary Location of Work | Charlotte, North Carolina | Local |
| Career Duration | Nearly four decades in journalism. | Local, Regional |
| Cause of Death | Colon Cancer (August 31, 2023). | Personal, Nationwide health issue |
| Advocacy Focus | Colon cancer awareness and the importance of screening. | Local, Nationwide health initiative |
| Commemorative Effort | “Team Crump WBTV” fundraising initiative. | Local (originating from Charlotte), with broader impact |
| Initiative Duration | Ongoing for the second consecutive year. | Annual |
| Journalistic Impact | Produced over 20 documentary films focusing on civil rights and the African American experience. | Regional, Nationwide |
| Awards & Recognition | National Association of Black Journalists’ Journalist of Distinction Award (2016), multiple regional Emmy Awards, Martin Luther King Jr. Medallion (2013). | Local, Regional, Nationwide |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
