Gates County Community Partnership and Gates County Schools Join Forces to Bolster Youth Development
Recognizing the essential role of youth development in reaffirming students' trust in the community and providing them support amidst their routine hurdles, Gates County Community Partnership (GCCP) and Gates County Schools are joining hands. The collaborative aims to launch an innovative mentoring program entitled "The Impact Makers Initiative" at Central Middle School.
This ground-breaking initiative will specifically target young men and function as a club, tentatively named “Busting Boundaries - Gates."
Enthusiastically affirming the initiative, Renoldo Windham, District Data Manager and Assistant Director of Testing/Accountability, Gates County Schools, stated, "We understand the pressing demand for a robust youth development program in our community. The purpose is to prepare our young men to evolve into responsible societal members by exposing them to diverse experiences. We aim to ensure they learn the importance of persistence, cultivate altruistic attitudes, and find direction towards fulfilling lives. Ultimately, we want them to step up as leaders!"
The primary framework of this program will emphasize the “8 C’s:"
1) Character – Demonstrating high moral standards and virtue.
2) Caring – Nurturing empathy and modesty.
3) Contribution – Participating actively across various environments while serving humanity.
4) Confidence – Exuding a feeling of self-importance and belief in personal abilities.
5) Competence – Developing the capability to take effective action.
6) Connection – Experiences providing safety, acceptance, and structure.
7) Competition – Undertaking activities that improve social skills, develop grit, and alleviate fear of failure.
8) College – Promoting academic excellence and acknowledging the importance of higher education.
The program will incorporate structured pedagogy, including enrichment activities and interactive presentations, aimed at promoting self-development. However, the success of the program rests heavily on community support and involvement.
Central Middle School already oversees a thriving youth development venture for girls named "Ladies of Distinction." This acclaimed program focuses on empowering girls to excel on all fronts - academically, emotionally, socially, and physically.
Kelly Eure, Principal of Central Middle School, commented, "By empowering young females today, we are effectively shaping our future leaders. Through the 'Ladies of Distinction,’ we create an environment conducive to nurturing brilliant minds. The aspiration is to harness the latent talents of our girl students to produce a generation of assertive and empathetic leaders who instigate lasting change."
Expressing his commitment to the cause, Sherley Jones, Jr., Director of Gates County Community Partnership, said, "We take pride in offering 'The Impact Makers Initiative' as a tool for supporting young men in their academic and personal journey. Our aim is to groom them as positive influencers in the community. Cooperation with the 'Ladies of Distinction' is crucial to harmoniously develop individuals who can significantly contribute to society."
“The Impact Makers Initiative" is slated to commence in January 2024, with scheduled meetings during Viking Voyage club days and after-school.
Gates County Community Partnership is a non-profit 501(c)(3) public charity devoted to fostering the youth of Gates County, North Carolina.
Saunders Science Scholars Complete College Tour Week
The Saunders Science Scholars Program students recently completed a successful summer college tour across North Carolina's Piedmont Triad region.
Students visited Winston-Salem State University, Wake Forest University and Wake Forest University School of Medicine, UNC Greensboro, and North Carolina A&T State University. In addition to exploring these institutions, students also engaged with the surrounding communities, including visiting the International Civil Rights Center & Museum and Skyzone Greensboro.
The trip was coordinated by Morehead Planetarium & Science Center. Morehead collaborates with Gates County Schools and Gates County Community Partnership to provide resources and activities that engage high school students and inspire future leadership in STEM fields.
Gates County Community Partnership Presents Opening GATES 2023 to Local Students
During the week of June 26th, Gates County Community Partnership (GCCP) presented the second edition of their free college readiness initiative, Opening GATES, to local high school students.
"This year we used lessons learned and 'glows and grows' to attempt to deliver an even better offering to our students. With the help of our extended community, I think we were successful," said Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr., President of Gates County Community Partnership. "Just like last year, we would like to thank our participants for allowing us to collaborate with them. Purpose filled lives are being built."
Saunders mentioned the 2023 camp engaged even more counties than before, as it served students from Gates, Hertford, Camden, Bertie, and Edgecombe.
The goal of Opening GATES is to increase the number of students from northeastern North Carolina who obtain a four-year college degree. The camp was fully funded by Gates County Community Partnership through a grant from the North Carolina GlaxoSmithKline Foundation.
"Higher education is key to developing our youth to sustain vibrant and prosperous communities where minds are enlightened, horizons are broadened, and opportunities are created," stressed Sherley Jones, Jr., Director of Gates County Community Partnership.
Opening GATES 2023 provided participants a one-week summer enrichment program that combined ACT Prep, youth development activities, and an overnight college tour of The University of North Carolina at Pembroke and Fayetteville State University.
The first three days of the camp took place at Gates County High School. Day 1 started with ACT tutoring by A Plus Test Prep. Students learned about test taking strategies and life. “What you get is in direct correlation with how hard and how smart you work!”
The day ended with an inspirational workshop by Gates County High School alum Kenneth Rountree. The veteran and award-winning actor currently works in the IT field and is co-founder of the Diversity Community of Interest group, Shades.
Mr. Rountree discussed the importance of a college education. He focused on the significance of networking, perseverance, and exposing yourself to different environments through travel and living in various places. “There is much more to the world than the area you live. Always be open to learn!”
During the last part of the workshop, the class learned how to create opportunities with elevator speeches. The session ended with presentations.
Day 2 began with Sheba Brown of A Plus Test Prep. She used her expert insight to actively engage the students and keep them focused.
Dr. Crystal Harden, Director of Program and Inclusion Initiatives at Morehead Planetarium & Science Center, led the afternoon youth development workshop, where she discussed financial literacy, interviewing etiquette, and essay writing. At the end of the session, Dr. Harden emotionally stated, "Providing young people who have been underserved and excluded access to educational opportunities is my purpose. I will passionately fight in this realm until my last breath!"
Day 3 started with Vincent Brown of A Plus Test Prep. He enthusiastically provided nuggets of wisdom during his enlightening lecture.
Gates County High School alum Brian Riddick, Principal at Butler College Prep (Chicago), led the afternoon youth development workshop.
“Butler College Prep ensures all students have equitable and positive school experiences that equip them to complete college and lead choice-filled lives. They know that the stakes are high, which is why the expectations for students and staff are even higher. Success is the only option!”
Mr. Riddick broke the ice with a game of "Taboo." This energized the students and prepared them for the life altering experience that followed.
Brian's main topics of discussion were: Success, Reflection, Sense of Possibility, Goal Setting, Why College?, and Gratitude. He emphasized we should not live in regrets. We should expect trust, exercise forgiveness, and be aspirational.
Tempting Treats & Gifts (Sunbury, NC), provided breakfast and lunch for the first three days of the camp.
Day 4 was the start of the college tour. Participants arrived at The University of North Carolina at Pembroke (Robeson County, NC) and were welcomed by Ms. Jordan Majette, Campus Experience Coordinator and Dr. Katina Blue, Associate Vice Chancellor / Chief Information Officer.
"Founded in 1887 as a school for the education of American Indians, UNC-Pembroke now serves a distinctly diverse student body and encourages inclusion and appreciation for the values of all people."
Lydia Mansfield (Native student) led an outstanding tour and history lesson. Dr. Jeff Bolles, Assistant MBA Director, provided an informative presentation on the various programs offered at the university. The tour ended with a visit to the "Museum of the Southeast American Indian."
The day closed with a private roller-skating event at Round-A-Bout Skating Center (Fayetteville, NC) and pizza at the hotel.
Day 5 started at Fayetteville State University’s Broadwell College of Business and Economics with a presentation by Assistant Director of Admissions, Patrick Stevenson.
Mr. Stevenson also led the campers on a comprehensive tour of the campus, which included the football stadium and sports complex. Participants had the opportunity to experience “Fish Friday” during lunch at the school cafeteria.
The Fayetteville State University tour ended early, so the trip back to Gates included an impromptu stop at Carolina Premium Outlets in Smithfield, NC.
GCCP is working to offer an even wider range of activities for the 2024 camp. Their goal is to serve 50 local students.
"Gates County Community Partnership has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the students of Gates County and the local area. Through their dedicated efforts, they have made significant strides in addressing the educational gaps that exist in our community. The collective dedication, expertise, and passion exhibited by the team at Gates County Community Partnership has resulted in remarkable outcomes and the betterment of countless lives," said Dr. Barry Williams, Superintendent of Gates County Schools.
The mission of Gates County Community Partnership (www.gatescountycp.org) is to inspire and increase community engagement by the citizens of Gates County for the educational and social development of its youth.
GCCP Participates in Local 5th Grade Promotion Ceremony
Gates County Community Partnership recently participated in the 5th Grade Promotion Ceremony at T. S. Cooper Elementary School. The program began with a processional, where the 38 honorees matriculated to their “positions of honor!”
“We are excited for the future of our rising 6th graders! Central Middle School awaits their excellence,” said Sherley Jones, Jr., Director, Gates County Community Partnership. “We would like to thank T. S. Cooper Elementary School for allowing us to participate in this program, as it is important to support the educational development and academic achievement of our youth.”
Academic achievement raises self-esteem, boosts confidence, and promotes positive attitudes towards learning, leading to better outcomes. For middle school aged students, it is important to establish good habits like studying, time management, and discipline, which are vital for success in higher levels of education.
During the ceremony’s keynote address, Gates County Community Partnership’s Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr. discussed the importance of overcoming fear.
“Fear is something all of us will have to confront at some point in our lives. It is a natural human emotion that is triggered by the presence of danger or risk. Fear is not necessarily a bad thing, as it can keep us safe and protect us from harm. However, fear can also be crippling if we allow it to take control of our lives. Fear can hold us back from achieving our goals and fulfilling our dreams. It can prevent us from living our lives to the fullest,” stated Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr., President, Gates County Community Partnership.
He added that overcoming fear is not easy. There may be setbacks, but strength, courage, and confidence are gained by every experience where fear is confronted. Saunders ended by encouraging the rising 6th graders to yearn to be great, which he defined as using opportunities to help others have a better life.
“T. S. Cooper greatly appreciates the support from Gates County Community Partnership. It was great to have a former Wildcat and GCCP member speak to the 5th graders during their promotion and share his experience as a Wildcat and the possibilities waiting for our students,” said Leslie Wright, Dean of Students, T. S. Cooper Elementary School.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, Gates County Community Partnership presented T. S. Cooper Elementary School with a $1,000 donation from the proceeds of their recent Alumni Basketball Game.
“T. S. Cooper Elementary School matters to Gates County and our organization, not just because of the fine education it provides its students. The school has been a beacon of hope for the local neighborhood south of the stoplight on Highway 32,” emphasized Sandra Jordan Branch, Director, Gates County Community Partnership. “A majority of our board are from Sunbury and attended the school, so our memories run deep. From the neighborhood basketball and football games to the summer softball games, the school provided for us when other places did not. We will always be grateful!”
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.
Gates County Community Partnership Receives Dominion Energy Grant
The Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation recently awarded Gates County Community Partnership $2,500 to refurbish horseshoe pits, walking trail bridges, and the bocce ball court at the Gates County Community Center. The foundation’s “Employees in Action” initiative, which supports company employees as they lead volunteer projects, provided the grant. Winnie Wade, of Dominion Energy, encouraged the Partnership to submit the grant application and shared, “Volunteering allows Dominion Energy to connect with the communities we serve to make them better places.”
“The Gates County Community Center is beyond thrilled to have the support of so many people, organizations, and businesses in our community and surrounding areas. Providing our citizens with numerous quality recreational opportunities is something we strive to do day in and day out and we value and appreciate those entities that help us make that happen,” said E. Norris Raby, Jr., Director, Gates County Community Center.
Gates County Community Partnership is a 501(c)(3) organization that believes organized collaboration is paramount to improving circumstance. Raby emphasized Dominion Energy and Gates County Community Partnership went above and beyond to ensure the materials necessary for repairs and renovations were up to the standards they aim to provide. He thanks both organizations for their efforts.
“We are grateful for the opportunity presented to assist the community center,” stated Benjamin Saunders, Jr., President, Gates County Community Partnership. “Thank you, Dominion Energy, for thinking of Gates in your efforts to support the locations you serve. We are looking forward to our next collaboration.”
Headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, Dominion Energy employs over 17,000 people in 16 states, providing reliable, affordable, clean energy to nearly 7 million customers. They are a leader in the clean energy transition, with a clear strategy to achieve Net Zero carbon and methane emissions.
Dominion's charitable foundation awards grants in four focus areas: human needs, environmental stewardship, education, and community vitality.
Gates County Community Partnership and UNC-CH Speak on the Importance of College
"Attending college is a crucial step towards achieving one's goals and aspirations. Not only does a college education offer opportunities for personal growth and development, but it also opens up a world of career possibilities."
Recently during homeroom period, Gates County Community Partnership and UNC-Chapel Hill presented an important topic to Gates County High School's 10th and 11th graders: the importance of furthering your education after high school.
"The best way to have financial independence in today's world is by investing in your education, and a college degree provides the foundation for a lifetime of financial stability," said Benjamin Saunders, Jr. of Gates County Community Partnership.
College graduates tend to earn higher salaries, have better job prospects and benefits, and are better equipped to navigate the challenges of the workforce. They have significant advantages in the job market as they generally possess more specialized skills and expertise.
Also, college provides a platform for students to network, build lasting relationships, and gain invaluable life experiences. It exposes students to a diverse population from various backgrounds and cultures, where they learn to interact with people who have different experiences and perspectives. This opens doors to new ideas and ways of thinking, which challenges assumptions and beliefs.
"College is a transformative experience that inspires and empowers students to become critical thinkers, innovators, and leaders in their communities, not afraid to be champions of change," emphasized Brian Rountree of Gates County Community Partnership. "College is not just about acquiring knowledge and skills, but also about developing maturity, independence, and a sense of responsibility that will prepare you for a successful and fulfilling life."
Gates County Community Partnership Awards Four Scholarships to Local Seniors
Gates County Community Partnership (GCCP) will grant four scholarships from two initiatives to 2023 graduates of Gates County High School.
GCCP North Carolina Promise Tuition Scholarship awardees are Sydney Moore (Elizabeth City State University) and Kristen Barnes (Western Carolina University). GCCP "3 Sisters" A.R.E. Achievers Scholarship awardees are Kailyn Wilson (North Carolina Central University) and Amaria Hathaway (North Carolina Central University). Each will receive a one-time, $1,000 payment to their university.
"Congratulations on receiving the scholarship awards! Your hard work and dedication has truly paid off," stated Chante Jordan of Gates County Community Partnership. "As you embark on this next chapter of your academic journey, I want to share these wise words from Nelson Mandela. 'Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.'"
Jordan also offers the recipients best wishes on continued success and implores them to use the scholarships as a stepping stone towards making a positive impact in their community and beyond.
The purpose of the GCCP North Carolina Promise Tuition Scholarship is to fund the first year of tuition for 2023 Gates County High School graduates using the North Carolina Promise Tuition Plan at Elizabeth City State University, Fayetteville State University, Western Carolina University, or the University of North Carolina at Pembroke
The privately endowed GCCP “3 Sisters” A.R.E. Achievers Scholarship honors three sisters from rural North Carolina who value education and understand the correlation between a college degree and a successful future. Recipients must attend North Carolina A&T State University, Winston Salem State University, or North Carolina Central University.
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.
Morehead Planetarium and Science Center Updates on the Saunders Science Scholars Program
On Monday, May 8, Morehead Planetarium and Science Center provided their annual update on the Saunders Science Scholars, a science enrichment and mentorship initiative named in honor of the late educator, Benjamin C. Saunders, Sr., during the monthly scheduled Gates County Board of Education meeting. The Saunders Science Scholars program provides regularly scheduled science activities, college tours, summer camps, and volunteer opportunities to twenty-eight 9th and 10th graders at Gates County High School.
“We feel like it is an obligation to present the remarkable achievements of the Saunders Science Scholars on a regular basis. We are exceedingly proud as they are doing great things,” emphasized Dr. Crystal Harden of Morehead Planetarium and Science Center. “Our journey with the Saunders Science Scholars will go on through college and we will continue to provide science programming to the entire Gates County community.”
Over the past year, participants took part in numerous extracurricular activities. Examples include summer camps at Elizabeth City State University, North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics, and the Salk Institute of Biological Studies. Scholars presented “Saturdays of Science,” a monthly science expo targeted to elementary school students, at Buckland Elementary School, Gatesville Elementary School, and T. S. Cooper Elementary School. Saunders Science Scholars also achieved academically, as the Fall 2022 average GPAs of the 9th and 10th grade cohorts were 3.85 and 3.68, respectfully.
“Kudos to our Scholars for recognizing their responsibility of being their best! We will remain supportive as they pursue their purpose and passions,” stated Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr. of Gates County Community Partnership.
There will be some changes in the program for the 2023-2024 school year. “Saturdays of Science” will be done in a “pop-up” fashion, where Scholars will “pop-up” at community events like football games, open houses, family nights, and parent teacher nights. Participants will also take part in monthly meetings involving guests delivering talks on education/college, social development, and careers.
This summer, all Saunders Science Scholars are required to participate in two weeklong events: Opening “GATES”, a college readiness initiative that includes ACT Prep, youth development, and college visits, and a college tour of UNC-Greensboro, NC A&T State University, Wake Forest University, and Winston Salem State University.
Saunders mentioned he is grateful Morehead Planetarium and Science Center is keeping his father’s legacy alive with such an amazing program, as it exemplifies all his father was about. "Nothing mattered to him more than the betterment of his community, and prioritizing education is the way."
The Saunders Science Scholars was modeled after Morehead’s family science enrichment program, which encourages young people and their families to get more involved with science. The program is part of outreach initiatives that address gaps in STEM education across North Carolina, specifically in rural communities. This experience is provided at no cost to Gates County and its participants.
Gates County Community Partnership Offers Free College Readiness Workshop to Local Students
Gates County Community Partnership (GCCP) is presenting “Opening GATES!”, a free college readiness initiative funded by the North Carolina GlaxoSmithKline Foundation, from June 26 – June 30, 2023. The workshop will take place at Gates County High School in Gatesville, North Carolina.
Rising 11th and 12th graders are encouraged to apply for this one-week summer enrichment program combining ACT Prep, youth development, and an overnight college tour of Fayetteville State University and UNC-Pembroke. All expenses will be covered (e.g., supplies, activities, meals, travel and lodging for the college tour, official ACT testing on July 15).
“We are excited to bring this program back for a second year. Last year was amazing and we desire to expose even more youth to this opportunity,” stated Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr., President of Gates County Community Partnership. “We want to emphasize this is not just a Gates County initiative! Local public school students from northeastern North Carolina are welcome.”
The focus of the program is to influence and direct students towards a four-year degree from an accredited university. The goal of the program is to increase the number of students who obtain a postsecondary certification.
“Gates County Community Partnership truly lives up to its name by providing quality, innovative programs for students. "Opening GATES" is an investment in the students and their future goals and aspirations,” stated Dr. Barry Williams, Superintendent of Gates County Schools.
Registration forms are located at https://gatescountycp.org/event/opening-gates-2023/. Please return to [email protected]. The deadline to apply is Saturday, June 3, 2023. Space is limited.
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.