GATES COUNTY, NC — In a significant boost for local youth development and community engagement, Gates County Community Partnership has received a generous grant of $52,600 from the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation’s Community Progress Fund. This funding will support the organization’s “Opening GATES – Holistic Youth Development and Community Support” initiative designed to address critical needs facing Gates County’s residents.
The initiative encompasses several tailored programs aimed at empowering youth and strengthening community bonds. These include “Activate Futures,” a youth development and college readiness program for high school juniors and seniors; “Busting Boundaries,” a mentoring program for middle school boys; and “Tech Stars,” a summer camp focused on technology and digital skills development. Additionally, a new component, “Let’s Chat,” will deliver programming at a local chat bench to encourage community dialogue, foster communication and understanding, and support mental health.
Gates County faces challenges typical of rural communities such as limited resources and a relative scarcity of extracurricular and social programs. The “Opening GATES” initiative aims to tackle these issues by offering comprehensive, accessible programs that support both academic and emotional well-being.
Dr. Chante Jordan, President of Gates County Community Partnership, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the grant. “We are truly thankful to the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation for their support and belief in our mission,” she said. “This funding enables us to expand our efforts in serving our youth and community more holistically. We’re excited to collaborate with local families, schools, and organizations to deliver impactful programming that will foster hope, resilience, and growth across Gates County.”
Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr., Vice President of the Partnership, also conveyed his appreciation. “We are grateful to the community and all our supporters who help sustain our work. This grant will allow us to engage more deeply with our residents and create meaningful opportunities for connection and development. We look forward to seeing the positive impact these activities will have on Gates County’s future.”
The Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation, established in 1936 in Winston-Salem, aims to promote a just, inclusive, and sustainable North Carolina through charitable work across the state. Their support of Gates County exemplifies their commitment to fostering vibrant communities and equitable opportunities for all residents.
The “Opening GATES” initiative aligns with the foundation’s vision of enhancing collective well-being by addressing educational disparities and social isolation; issues exacerbated in rural areas. By investing in youth and community connection, Gates County Community Partnership is taking vital steps toward fostering a more connected, resilient, and prosperous community.
For more information about the “Opening GATES” initiative or to get involved, contact Gates County Community Partnership through their social media channels or [email protected].