Organization recognized for transformative impact on youth, education, and community engagement
GATES COUNTY — Gates County Community Partnership (GCCP) will be formally recognized for its outstanding service and commitment to the community as a recipient of the 2026 Governor’s Volunteer Service Award, one of North Carolina’s highest honors for volunteerism and community impact.
The award will be presented during an upcoming meeting of the Gates County Board of Commissioners, recognizing GCCP’s years of dedicated service to the educational and social development of youth throughout Gates County and Northeastern North Carolina.
Founded in 2018, Gates County Community Partnership has become a driving force for community engagement, educational opportunity, and youth empowerment. The nonprofit organization, operated entirely by volunteers, has built a reputation for delivering meaningful programs and resources at no cost to the community; a philosophy the organization proudly describes as “Free is Key!”
Over the past several years, GCCP has led and supported numerous initiatives that have positively impacted students and families across Gates County. Among its accomplishments are helping facilitate transformational grants for Gates County Schools, awarding scholarships to graduating seniors, donating nearly 200 new computers to local students, delivering youth sports and mentoring initiatives, and partnering with other organizations serving Gates County and it’s surrounding areas.
Gates County Community Partnership has also played a major role in strengthening educational pathways for local youth by supporting college tours, enrichment programs, summer camps, leadership initiatives, and academic development opportunities.
“We are deeply honored and humbled to receive the Governor’s Volunteer Service Award,” said Dr. Chante Jordan, President of Gates County Community Partnership. “This recognition belongs to every volunteer, supporter, educator, student, parent, and community member who has believed in our mission and poured into the future of Gates County. Serving this community is both a privilege and a responsibility that we do not take lightly. We are grateful for the continued support we receive and remain committed to creating opportunities that uplift and empower our youth.”
The roots of GCCP are deeply personal and community-centered. The organization was inspired by the launch of the Saunders Science Scholars program in 2017, a STEM-based youth initiative developed by Morehead Planetarium and Science Center. The program, named in honor of esteemed educator Benjamin C. Saunders, Sr., became the catalyst for GCCP’s formation, encouraging childhood friends connected to Gates County to establish a nonprofit focused on expanding educational and social opportunities.
Today, GCCP’s work continues to grow through partnerships with Gates County Schools, local organizations, universities, and community stakeholders who share a vision for a stronger and more connected county.