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.
GCCP Delivers the Gates County High School Alumni Charity Basketball Expo
On Saturday, April 8, Gates County Community Partnership (GCCP) hosted the Gates County High School Alumni Charity Basketball Expo at Gates County High School. “The event was a huge success. Everyone was having fun. All proceeds will be donated to Gates County Schools,” said Gates County Community Partnership member Benjamin Saunders, Jr.The Expo included two alumni basketball games, a 3-Point Shootout, Slam Dunk contest, and “Rep Your Class” spirit competition. There were also raffles and giveaways.Central Middle School’s cheerleaders and the Lady Canes provided entertainment with their spirited cheers, DJ Alvin “Smoove” Hobbs mixed the music, and the Saunders Science Scholars presented enlightening science activities to children in attendance. The MC of the event was Cindy Smith Barber. 
“We would like to recognize game MVPs Cassius Gary, Khalil Leary, and Jordan Parker, as well as the 3-Point Shootout Champion LB Wolfrey. Cassius Gary also won the Slam Dunk competition,” said Gates County Community Partnership member Sherley Jones, Jr. “The Class of 1982 won the “Rep Your Class” spirit competition. They came deep with matching red and white t-shirts!”Gates County Community Partnership appreciates all who attended, participated, and volunteered. Special thanks to Jonathan Hayes, Krystal Brooks, Susan Casper, Lee Moe Brooks, Hope Melton, Crystal Harden, Shalland Beamon, Myriah Wolfrey, and LaWanda Daughtery.GCCP also mentioned the Gates County Sheriff's Department, Gates County Rescue and EMS, Ed Geis, referees Courtni Williams and Timothy Daughtery, Photographer David Spruill, and Carolina Trophy. All played a key role in the success of the alumni basketball game.“The Alumni Basketball Expo was about the community. We again wanted to show our love for Gates County by providing an avenue for good, clean family fun over the holiday weekend,” said Gates County Community Partnership member Brian Rountree. “Our very own Chante Lassiter-Jordan did a magnificent job managing the event and Cindy Smith Barber was an awesome MC. They both possess a combination of vibrance and wisdom that make them remarkable!”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 Presenting Scholarship Programs to High School Seniors
Gates County Community Partnership (GCCP) will give scholarships from two different initiatives to 2023 graduates of Gates County High School. The programs are the annual GCCP North Carolina Promise Tuition Scholarship and the privately endowed “3 Sisters” A.R.E. Achievers Scholarship.
“GCCP is excited to deliver two scholarships opportunities to our seniors this year. We are more than grateful for the opportunity,” said Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr., President, Gates County Community Partnership. “We would like to thank our donors, who make this possible, and encourage all who qualify to apply.”
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 (NC) Promise Tuition Plan at Elizabeth City State University, Fayetteville State University, Western Carolina University, or the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. This scholarship may have multiple awardees.
The North Carolina Promise Tuition Plan is an initiative of the State of North Carolina established to increase access to a quality university education through the University of North Carolina system. Students who qualify receive reduced rate tuition, with the remainder supplemented by the state.
The privately endowed “3 Sisters” A.R.E. Achievers Scholarship will provide $1,000 to a 2023 Gates County High School graduate attending North Carolina A&T State University, Winston Salem State University, or North Carolina Central University. This scholarship honors “three sisters” from rural North Carolina who value education and understand the correlation between a college degree and a successful future.
Additional information and the applications are available at the following link:
https://gatescountycp.org/event/
Applications for both scholarships must be returned to [email protected] by Friday, May 5, 2023. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered. Recipients will be notified by Friday, May 12, 2023.
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 High School to Start Youth Development Program for Student Athletes
For the 2023 - 2024 school year, Gates County High School will further support the educational and social advancement of its student athletes by instituting an official academic and youth development component to its sports programs.
With this initiative, Gates County High School will dedicate time weekly to promote the honorable achievement of all its student athletes. Planned sessions will be tailored to the individual needs of each participant. An objective is to maintain or improve scholastic performance of student athletes while “in-season.”
In addition, Gates County High School will bring in community members and others to speak on the importance of virtue, education, and service. The goal is to better prepare student athletes for life after high school.
"Our hope is this project inspires our student athletes to pursue their passion and purpose after high school," stated Sherley Jones, Jr., Director, Gates County Community Partnership. "For us, it is about closing the gap between what you are capable of and what you are doing. We want our students to be the very best version of themselves!"
As part of the plan, Gates County Community Partnership worked with Gates County High School to acquire a VertiMax V8 EX to supplement their athletic training and performance program. VertiMax equipment is trusted by professional, Olympic, collegiate, and youth sports athletes, trainers, and coaches around the world. The technology enables athletes to realize increased power, agility, speed, and vertical jump performance.
"We are always thankful for the opportunity to work with Gates County Community Partnership when it comes to our students. We are both dedicated to not only improving the success of our athletes on the field but in the classroom and providing them with the opportunity to grow into outstanding members of society. We are excited for our athletic enrichment program to begin next fall," said Jacob Harrell, Athletic Director, Gates County High School.