Hometown Strong

12/26/2024

01/10/2024

If you haven't already, please go follow America 250 NC! They will be sharing some extraordinary stories about the people and places in North Carolina.

America 250 NC is an initiative commemorating the 250th anniversary of our country. This multi-year effort, from now through July 4, 2026, is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond.

As the United States approaches its monumental 250th year, North Carolina is gearing up for a historic commemoration that will delve into our past, present, and future. Join us as we explore two interpretive concepts: Revolutionary NC and When Are We US?

Visions of Freedom: Let's travel through time as we spotlight pivotal moments in North Carolina's history that propelled us toward a better state and nation. From the American Revolution to the Civil Rights Movement, Women’s Suffrage, and scientific breakthroughs, we'll showcase the evolution of our ideals.

Gathering of Voices: This commemoration is more than a single story; it's a symphony of voices. Historical and modern-day North Carolinians contribute to a rich tapestry that inspires us to strive for a "More Perfect Union."

Common Ground: We are all students, witnesses, and makers of history. Our physical spaces, be they battlefields, historic sites, or the wonders of the natural world, hold stories of struggle, creation, and connection. Let's seek common ground and work together to make North Carolina a better place.

Starting now until the 250th anniversary of America in 2026, we'll be sharing captivating stories about the people and places that shaped the land and history of North Carolina. Stay tuned for a journey through time and a celebration of the diverse narratives that make our state extraordinary!

03/22/2023

We’re excited to announce that nominations are now open for the prestigious North Carolina Award!

The North Carolina Award is the highest civilian honor bestowed by the state of North Carolina. It recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the state's culture, sciences, literature, and public service.

Nominations for the North Carolina Award are now open, and we're looking for outstanding individuals who have demonstrated exceptional achievement and service to North Carolina. If you know someone who fits this description, we encourage you to nominate them for this prestigious award.

To submit a nomination, visit https://form.jotform.com/220524418826051

01/20/2023

01/20/2023

01/20/2023

The NC Department of Natural & Cultural Resources has selected three cities as music-friendly communities.

Durham, Shelby, and Elizabeth City were selected for a pilot program to strengthen the music economies already in place there.

The goal is to boost jobs, tourism, and economic growth in each of those cities through the music scene.

Durham, Shelby and Elizabeth City have been chosen

07/25/2022

This past week, Hometown Strong’s Katherine Lucas and Chastan Swain visited Halifax Community College to observe their pre-apprenticeship program for solar energy.

The program is part of the larger NC Clean Energy Youth Apprenticeship Program, which launched last summer, and gives high school and college students the opportunity to learn about solar energy and HVAC in hands-on ways. Students complete coursework, then partake in hands-on training from companies like Roanoke Electric.

At the end of the summer, students become eligible for apprenticeships with various companies. We are so proud of these students and North Carolina!
North Carolina Business Committee for Education NC Dept of Environmental Quality Halifax County NC

07/13/2022

Have you taken the Age My Way NC Survey?

Hometown Strong has partnered with AARP-NC to survey North Carolinians 45+ across the state about their communities’ needs in relation to aging. By 2030, NC will have more individuals older than 65 than children 0-18. We need to hear from you to ensure our state is ready for this shift.

Make your voice heard! Take the 20-minute survey at bit.ly/AgeMyWayNC or go to the Hometown Strong homepage, hometownstrong.nc.gov, and find the link there.

07/12/2022

06/23/2022

On Friday, June 10th, the Grand Opening was held for the North Carolina School of Science and Math at Morganton campus. Hundreds of people from all across the state came to Morganton to celebrate.

The campus has been a six-year long project in collaboration with many different organizations and individuals across the public and private sectors of North Carolina. It is amazing to see how the beautiful campus has come to fruition and Hometown Strong is so proud and thankful to have assisted with the project over the past years.

The campus will host overnight students for summer camps starting this week, and their inaugural class of students will move-in in August.

NCSSM-Morganton NCSSM-Morganton NCSSM Admissions City of Morganton, NC Government