Mitchell County Extension Wins Partnership Award for Community Engagement Initiatives

Mitchell County is set to receive a prestigious partnership award, highlighting the strong collaboration between the county government and the North Carolina Cooperative Extension. During a recent Board of Commissioners meeting, the county extension director shared insights into this impactful relationship, which has fostered significant community development and resilience planning.

The award recognizes the unique partnership that has emerged since the county secured the former Vaughn Middle School campus as the new home for the extension. This facility has become a hub for education, entrepreneurship, agriculture, and emergency preparedness. The integration of the extension into county operations has been seamless, with the extension director actively involved in long-term planning and disaster response initiatives.

County leaders have not only participated in advisory boards but have also volunteered in local 4-H programs and advocated for extension services at the state level. Their support has included providing vehicles, facility space, and communication platforms, such as the "We Are Mutual" podcast, to enhance outreach and engagement.

This collaborative effort is seen as a model for community-focused solutions, demonstrating how strong partnerships can lead to innovative approaches in addressing local challenges. As Mitchell County moves forward, the recognition from this award underscores the importance of teamwork in building a resilient and thriving community.