Educational Collaboration Joins Students from Gates and Hertford Counties
In an exciting partnership, the Saunders Science Scholars (SSS) program is joining hands with ACTivate Futures, expanding their mission of science education, college readiness, and youth development to students from Hertford County Public Schools.
ACTivate Futures, a collaboration between the Gates County Community Partnership and Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, was presented to local students this past summer. The free program opened its doors to high school students wishing to bolster their preparedness for higher education. After the camp, a decision was made to expand the program into a joint campaign with the Saunders Science Scholars, an educational enrichment program launched in Gates County in 2017.
"ACTivate Futures was initially tailored for Gates County students. Towards the end of registration, we realized there would be a sizable number of open slots and when this happens, we don't close things down, we open them up," said Chante Jordan, Director of Gates County Community Partnership. "The response from Hertford County was tremendous. Thank you, Hertford County Early College High School (HCECHS), for your continued support and engagement."
Dr. Crystal Harden, Director of Program and Access Initiatives at Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, shared her enthusiasm: "The integration between ACTivate Futures participants and our Saunders Science Scholars was seamless, so we had to figure out a way to continue. This collaboration underscores the potential our students hold. Welcome Alexis, Jameilya, Madison, Trent, Sydney, Amiya, and Anaston to this continued educational journey."
With six meetings planned throughout the 2024-2025 academic year, these sessions will foster an environment of collaboration and shared learning. Sessions will primarily be held at the Gates County Community Center, with potential meetings in Hertford County.
"As a parent and President of the Hertford County Early College High School Parent Teacher Student Organization, I am very grateful to the Gates County Collaborative (Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, Gates County Community Partnership, and Gates County Schools) for opening the doors of the program to students at Hertford County Public Schools and other surrounding counties," emphasized ACTivate Futures parent Wendy Vann. "I am even more excited that ACTivate Futures will continue throughout the 2024-25 year to allow the HCECHS students to join the Saunders Science Scholars in additional college readiness initiatives. We greatly appreciate the opportunity to continue this exciting partnership!"
Gates County Community Partnership is a 501c3 public charity whose mission is to inspire and increase community engagement by the citizens of Gates County for the educational and social development of its youth.
Morehead Planetarium and Science Center serves North Carolina and beyond by bringing together the unique resources of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill to engage the public for an enhanced understanding of science.
The Saunders Science Scholars "Pop Up" for Local Youth
The Saunders Science Scholars, an innovative program based in Gates County, is at the forefront of sparking curiosity and fostering a love for science among young learners. This high school science enrichment and college readiness initiative brings interactive "pop up" STEM events to community gatherings, specifically designed to engage elementary school students and their families.
"Community service is a vital component of our mission. We strive to instill in our students a strong sense of moral and civic responsibility, encouraging them to positively interact with the public," stated Dr. Crystal Harden, Director of Program and Access Initiatives at the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center. "We recognize the way you grow in knowledge and understanding is to use what you learn in a practical manner and we appreciate our community for the opportunities they provide and their support."
Now in its second year, the Saunders Science Scholars program has brought dynamic pop-up events to multiple venues including the Gates County Community Center, local elementary schools, and more. This year, the program aims to broaden its reach to even more locations, enhancing its impact across the community.
"Our scholars, now high school juniors and seniors, gain invaluable experience through these events," noted Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr., President of Gates County Community Partnership. "These activities may ignite a passion for education in some participants, but they invariably demonstrate the profound value of service to others."
For those interested in hosting a Saunders Science Scholars "pop up" during the 2024-2025 school year, please reach out to Program Director, Dr. Crystal Harden, at [email protected].
Gates County Community Partnership Donates for Camp Scholarships
Gates County, NC - In a heartwarming act of generosity, Gates County Community Partnership recently donated funds that will provide scholarships for children to attend the highly anticipated Summer Hoopla camp for free.
Summer Hoopla, a four-week summer camp for students ages 7 to 12, is set to take place from July 8th to August 1st at the Gates County Community Center. The engaging program is a collaborative effort between the Gates County Community Center, Gates County 4-H, and Morehead Planetarium and Science Center. The camp promises an array of enriching activities that will stimulate creativity, curiosity, and adventure among young participants.
The camp’s schedule is packed with diverse themes, ensuring a comprehensive and exciting experience for every child. Week 1 is Arts, Crafts, and Theatre, Week 2 is S.T.E.M., Week 3 is Sports, and Week 4 is Nature.
Additionally, campers will embark on numerous exciting day trips, which include visits to the Gates County Public Library, ECSU Planetarium, Merchants Millpond, a Norfolk Tides baseball game, and the 4-H Eastern Center. These outings are designed to complement the camp's weekly themes and provide hands-on learning experiences.
"At Gates County Community Partnership, we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to explore, learn, and grow. Summer Hoopla is a fantastic program that enriches our children's lives by combining education with fun, and we are proud to support this initiative with these scholarships,” stated Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr., President, Gates County Community Partnership.
With this donation, Gates County Community Partnership not only helps alleviate financial constraints for families but also ensures that more children have the chance to experience the joys and educational benefits that Summer Hoopla provides. This act of kindness and community spirit highlights the ongoing commitment of local organizations to the development and well-being of Gates County’s youth.
A Summer of Enrichment: Digital Brilliance Hour and Saunders Science Scholars/ACTivate Futures Camps in Gates County
This summer, Gates County, North Carolina was abuzz with activity as it hosted two exciting and enriching camps for local students: Digital Brilliance Hour and Saunders Science Scholars/ACTivate Futures. Offered by Gates County Community Partnership (GCCP), these camps delivered opportunities for middle and high school students to delve into game development, music production, and college readiness, fostering creativity, learning, and personal growth.
Funded by Burroughs Wellcome Fund, Digital Brilliance Hour was a three-day camp focused on game development and music production for 7th through 10th graders. This camp combined the rigor of a bootcamp with the practical experience of an internship, all within a hands-on curriculum. The campers explored various aspects of STEEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Entrepreneurship, Arts, Math), channeling their creativity into technical skills.
Instructors Kevin Epps, Caleb Stowe, Josiah Laster, and Michael Bernal, of the Durham based Digital Brilliance Hour, guided the students through the intricacies of game development and music production. The first day introduced the basics, allowing students to choose their preferred path. Game development enthusiasts joined Caleb and Josiah in the computer lab to learn coding, game terminology, and character design. Meanwhile, Kevin and Michael led the music production group, teaching beat making, mixing, and recording techniques.
By the final day, the camp had successfully produced two remarkable projects: a game titled "Beats of Rage" and a music album named "Starry Skies.” The students not only gained technical skills but also boosted their confidence and developed a passion for STEEAM.
Running concurrently, the Saunders Science Scholars/ACTivate Futures College Readiness Camp targeted high school juniors and seniors. This initiative, a collaboration between Gates County Community Partnership and Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, included participants from Gates County Schools, Hertford County Public Schools, and Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Public Schools.
The week-long camp began with an inspiring session by Dr. Crystal Harden of UNC-CH and an intensive ACT training session by APlus Test Prep, out of Durham. Throughout the week, students engaged in various development sessions, including college application simulations and resume building workshops led by UNC staff members Davron Rorie and Fredi Neilsen. These sessions equipped students with essential skills for their college and scholarship applications.
One of the highlights of the camp was the college tour portion based in Norfolk, Virginia, where students explored the campuses of Norfolk State University, Old Dominion University, and Hampton University. They also learned about coastal resilience at the Ryan Resilience Lab, enjoyed nature kayaking, visited the Norfolk Botanical Garden, and enjoyed water and volleyball at Ocean View Beach Park.
The sense of camaraderie and unity among the participants was palpable, as they described the camp as forming a new family. This spirit of togetherness was best encapsulated during a bayside group meeting at Hampton University, solidifying the bonds they had formed over the week.
Both camps were resounding successes, providing valuable educational experiences and fostering personal growth among the students. Digital Brilliance Hour ignited a passion for technology in its young participants, while Saunders Science Scholars/ACTivate Futures equipped high schoolers with the tools and confidence needed for their academic journeys.
The dedication of the instructors and organizers, alongside the enthusiastic participation of the students, ensured that these camps were more than just summer activities—they were steppingstones towards bright futures. As GCCP looks forward to next summer's programs, it is clear that the seeds of brilliance and academic excellence have been sown.
"Reflecting on this summer’s camps, it is heartening to see the profound impact of Digital Brilliance Hour and Saunders Science Scholars/ACTivate Futures on our students. These programs not only ignited a passion for STEEAM but also bestowed invaluable skills for college readiness,” emphasized Chante Jordan, Director of Gates County Community Partnership. “As we watched our students grow more confident and excited about their futures, it became evident that these were not just camps, but pivotal experiences that will shape their paths for years to come."
Gates County Community Partnership Celebrates Awarding North Carolina Promise Plan Scholarships to Local Seniors
For the sixth consecutive year, Gates County Community Partnership (GCCP) has proudly awarded the GCCP North Carolina Promise Plan Scholarship to graduating seniors from Gates County High School. This significant scholarship covers one year of tuition at one of four distinguished institutions: Elizabeth City State University, University of North Carolina at Pembroke, Fayetteville State University, or Western Carolina University. This year’s honorees, Aniaya Hathaway and Landon Buck, will be attending Elizabeth City State University and Western Carolina University, respectively.
Sherley Jones Jr., a director of Gates County Community Partnership, shared his enthusiasm for the ongoing commitment to local students, "In line with our mission to elevate the educational goals of Gates County scholars, it fills us with immense pride to deliver these scholarships to our students."
The North Carolina Promise Tuition Plan, a venture by the State of North Carolina, aims to enhance access to high-quality university education within the University of North Carolina system by offering reduced tuition rates that are supplemented by state funds. Gates County Community Partnership supports students who benefit from this valuable program, recognizing it as a strategic investment in education.
Chante Jordan, one of the directors at Gates County Community Partnership, reflected on the impact of their mission since its inception, "Established in 2018, our organization has always operated on the principle that education is essential and serves as the foundation for a thriving society. This scholarship matters deeply to us, to the recipients, and to the broader community. Truly, education is the key to the future!”
Gates County Community Partnership is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt public charity whose mission is to inspire and increase community engagement by the citizens of Gates County for the educational and social development of its youth.
Gates County Community Partnership Offers Two Free Summer Camps to Local Students
Gates County Community Partnership (GCCP) is presenting “ACTivate Futures – Gates,” a free college readiness initiative, and “Digital Brilliance Hour,” a free game development and music production camp, to local students this summer.
“ACTivate Futures – Gates” is for rising 11th and 12th graders. The initiative is a one-week summer enrichment camp combining ACT Prep, youth development, and an overnight college tour in Virginia. “ACTivate Futures – Gates” will take place June 24 – June 28, 2024, at a yet to be determined location in Gates County. 
“We are grateful for the opportunity to engage in a college prep program for a third consecutive year. As an organization, we desire the best for our students and we feel this initiative is invaluable,” stated Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr., President of Gates County Community Partnership. “We encourage local students to consider this program. It will be well worth it!”
The goal of “ACTivate Futures – Gates” is to influence and direct students towards a four-year degree from an accredited university. The objective of the program is to increase the number of students who obtain a postsecondary certification.
“Digital Brilliance Hour” is for rising 7th through 9th graders. The camp is a three-day immersion in game development and music production. The curriculum is carefully crafted to be engaging and hands-on. Participants will dive into a world of creativity through a series of activities that include training, practical work, product packaging, and presentations. The camp will also focus on nurturing essential life skills like collaboration, communication, and decision-making. “Digital Brilliance Hour” will take place June 25 – June 27, 2024, at Central Middle School in Gatesville.
“Summers are supposed to be about fun, and we are excited to offer this new opportunity to local students,” said Sandra Jordan Branch, Director of Gates County Community Partnership. “We would like to thank the Burroughs Wellcome Fund for funding this camp. I do not think there are many better ways to engage our local students in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) than using gaming and music.”
The goal of “Digital Brilliance Hour” is to rectify societal imbalances by strategically addressing economic, job market, and systemic disparities. It aims to provide the tools needed to elevate, fostering a more balanced and equitable society.
Space is limited for both camps, but Gates County Community Partnership will do everything possible to engage all youth who are interested.
“Gates County Community Partnership continues to honor its mission by delivering high-quality, innovative programs tailored for students. ‘ACTivate Futures – Gates’ and ‘Digital Brilliance Hour’ stand as testament to their commitment towards investing in students' future ambitions and dreams, guiding them towards achieving their full potential,” stated Dr. Barry Williams, Superintendent of Gates County Schools.
Registration forms for both camps are located at https://gatescountycp.org/our-events/. Please return to [email protected]. The deadline to apply is Saturday, June 1, 2024. For questions, call 252-220-5051.
Gates County Community Partnership is a 501(c)(3) public charity whose mission is to inspire and increase community engagement by the citizens of Gates County for the educational and social development of its youth. More information about the organization can be found at www.gatescountycp.org.
Winter Coat Drive Collects 170 Coats for Gates County’s Youth
Winter can be a magical time for many, with snowflakes gently falling and the scent of hot chocolate in the air. But for some families, the bitter cold can be a source of worry and stress. These families are often forced to choose between providing warm clothing for their children or meeting other essential needs.
To help address this situation, Gates County Schools, Gates County Community Partnership (GCCP), and Dominion Energy recently collaborated on a Winter Coat Drive for students of need in Gates County Schools. This initiative was able to collect 170 winter coats to donate to local youth.
"It has truly been an honor to collaborate with Gates County Community Partnership and Dominion Energy in this year's Coat Drive. I am so proud of everyone who participated in some part to provide for those in need this winter. The gift of giving and caring for others that our students, staff, GCCP, and Dominion Energy have exhibited is the essence of the holiday season," said Dr. Barry Williams, Superintendent, Gates County Schools.
The importance of this initiative cannot be underestimated. It ensures children have proper protection against the harsh weather conditions. Winter coats act as a shield, providing warmth and insulation, and reducing the risk of illness caused by exposure to the cold. Having a quality winter coat allows children to go outdoors confidently, participate in physical activities, and stay active during the winter months.
Beyond the practical benefits, a winter coat can do wonders for a child's self-esteem. It's easy to overlook the social and emotional impact a warm coat brings. Feeling included and having the same opportunities as peers boosts children's self-confidence and fosters a sense of belonging. No child should feel left out or embarrassed due to not having proper winter attire.
"We hope this coat drive also serves as a catalyst for community involvement. Neighbors, schools, local businesses, and charitable organizations came together, united by a common cause: ensuring children in our community stay warm and protected," emphasized Katherine Wade, External Affairs, Dominion Energy North Carolina. "This coat drive not only provides tangible assistance but also nurtures the bonds that strengthen our society. It brings out the best in us, reminding us we are all capable of making a positive impact in someone else's life."
In a show of deep appreciation to the local community, Chante Jordan, Director, Gates County Community Partnership stated, "To all the generous donors of our coat drive, your kindness and compassion are truly commendable. Your support demonstrates the power of community and the beauty of human kindness. Thank you for your generosity and for making a meaningful difference in the lives of others."
Coats were distributed at a few Gates County schools. There will be more available at the Gates County Community Center starting on Monday, December 18. If interested, please contact Connie Wolfrey at 252-357-0677 or just stop by.
Coats will be available in all sizes to fit students from kindergarten through 12th grade.
Sponsors Come to Gates County to Teach High School Students Financial Literacy
On November 18, 2023, the Saunders Science Scholars welcomed program funders, Steve and Addie Butts, to Gates County! This was not a normal visit, as Mr. Butts had an important message to deliver to program participants through “Personal Finance with Steve.” The workshop focused on financial literacy and provided information relevant to the masses.
Financial literacy refers to the knowledge and skills that enable individuals to make informed and effective financial decisions. It encompasses understanding various financial concepts, such as budgeting, saving, investing, debt management, and financial planning. In today's complex and interconnected world, financial literacy has become increasingly important in empowering individuals to take control of their finances and secure a stable financial future.
One demographic that greatly benefits from financial literacy education is high school students. High school is a critical time in a person's life where they are transitioning into adulthood and beginning to assume greater responsibility for their financial choices. By equipping students with the necessary knowledge and skills, they can develop healthy financial habits early on and make informed decisions that will positively impact their lives.
Mr. Butts started his session with an icebreaker, where students shared their name, favorite subject, what they wanted to be when they grew up in elementary school, and what would they do if they had $5,000 to spend in seven days. As expected, the answers were interesting, to say the least.
The focus then shifted to the agenda of the workshop: Defining Financial Success, Net Worth, Saving, Spending Plan, and Debt and Credit Score. The following are some key points from the presentation:
- True Financial Success is more than outward prosperity and has less to do with dollar signs than it does with how money affects your life and your relationships.
- Having your financial life in order can give you control of your money, increase the likelihood of achieving financial goals, decrease stress, increase harmony at home, and be a source of confidence and satisfaction.
- Assets minus Liabilities equals “Your TRUE Financial Situation”
- Sacrifice some spending when young so you can spend in the future.
- Create a spending plan.
- The “cost” of poor credit is steep.
Truist Wealth’s Center for Family Legacy provided content for the presentation. The information presented was general in nature and did not specifically address individual investment objectives, financial situations, or the needs of any specific person.
“First, we would like to thank Mr. and Mrs. Butts. They are amazing individuals who are the conceivers and benefactors of the Saunders Science Scholars program,” stated Benjamin Saunders, Jr., Director, Gates County Community Partnership. “Steve could have used anyone to do this presentation but chose to do it himself, as he is committed to an intimate relationship with our kids and their families.”
Morehead Planetarium and Science Center’s Saunders Science Scholars Program is a unique partnership with Gates County Schools and Gates County Community Partnership, where students discover science in new and exciting ways through hands-on exploration and new enrichment opportunities. The program provides resources and events to the Gates County Schools community, in particular high school students and their families.
Computer Donation Impacts Local Scholars
Gates County Community Partnership (GCCP), a local nonprofit organization dedicated to the educational and social development of the youth in Gates County, recently made a surprise donation of 25 computers to the student participants of the Saunders Science Scholars STEM enrichment initiative at Gates County High School. This generous act took place after the annual Gates County Lions Club Christmas Parade in Gatesville, where the Saunders Science Scholars showcased the program.
GCCP Director Sandra Jordan Branch emphasized the importance of providing the necessary tools of success to participants in the Saunders Science Scholars program. She stated, "We believe that every student should have access to the resources they need to excel academically and socially. By donating these computers, we are helping empower these young scholars to reach their full potential."
The Saunders Science Scholars (SSS) provides invaluable resources and events to the Gates County Schools community, with an intimate focus on 25 high school students and their families. This program aims to promote a deeper understanding and appreciation of science through various activities. Morehead Planetarium and Science Center engages Gates County Schools and Gates County Community Partnership to ensure a comprehensive outreach effort.
Three years ago, Gates County Community Partnership donated laptops to SSS, ensuring participants had access to the latest technology. Today's donation demonstrates their ongoing dedication to the success of the program.
"In all honesty, three years is an eternity, and we recently found out some of our scholars’ computers were no longer operational," said GCCP Director Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr. "With the high usage we expect from participants, we knew it was time. We are grateful for the opportunity and ability to serve our scholars."
This donation reflects Gates County Community Partnership’s enduring commitment to the educational uplift of local students. The organization is thankful for the support of their community and friends. They emphasized, “We all worked together to make this happen.”