Chamber Foundation Formed To Strengthen Economic Opportunity In Four Oaks

FOUR OAKS — The Four Oaks Chamber Foundation has been established as the official charitable arm of the Four Oaks Chamber of Commerce, expanding the Chamber’s mission to promote economic opportunity, leadership development and community enrichment throughout Four Oaks and surrounding communities.

The Foundation is dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship, supporting small business development and promoting sustainable economic growth. In addition, it will advance workforce and leadership development by partnering with local schools, community colleges and employers to help prepare youth, emerging professionals and residents for successful participation in the local and regional workforce.

The Foundation will also develop and support community programs designed to enhance quality of life, strengthen civic engagement and create opportunities for residents and businesses to thrive. Through educational initiatives, leadership programs, business support efforts and collaborative partnerships, the organization aims to serve as a catalyst for positive and sustainable growth in Four Oaks.

To expand its impact and funding capacity, the Foundation will work with Kelly Blanchard of Seven Petals Consulting, LLC as its grant consultant. Through this partnership, the Foundation will pursue strategic grant opportunities to support workforce initiatives, leadership development programs, entrepreneurship efforts and community-based projects aligned with its mission.

As a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, the Foundation will solicit and steward charitable contributions to fund initiatives that strengthen the business community, expand workforce readiness and support meaningful community programs.

“The creation of the Foundation allows us to deepen our impact in Four Oaks,” said Joan Pritchett, director and representative of the Four Oaks Chamber of Commerce. “Through charitable support and strategic partnerships, we can invest more intentionally in workforce readiness, leadership development, small business growth and community initiatives — ensuring a vibrant and prosperous future for our community.”

Board of Directors

The Four Oaks Chamber Foundation is governed by a Board of Directors comprised of community and business leaders committed to advancing its mission.

The inaugural board includes:

• President: Connie Grady, M.Ed., RN
  Dean of Continuing Education & Health Sciences, Johnston Community College
• Vice President: Barbara Keen
  Retired Teacher
• Treasurer: Tim Grady, CPA
  Honeycutt & Grady
• Secretary: Paul Papke
  Retired Vice President, Dunlop Tire Corporation
• Director: Joan Pritchett
  Four Oaks Chamber of Commerce

The Board provides strategic leadership, financial oversight and community guidance as the Foundation develops programs and partnerships to benefit the Four Oaks area.