Pender County Citizens Leadership Academy

Learn About Our Cooperative Extension Program

The Cooperative Extension Program in Pender County is a vital resource for farmers, gardeners, and residents interested in agriculture, horticulture, and community development. As part of the statewide North Carolina Cooperative Extension network, this program provides education and support in areas such as crop production, livestock management, sustainable agriculture, and food safety. You'll learn how our Cooperative Extension agents work closely with local farmers, businesses, and community members to promote best practices and strengthen our agricultural economy.

Gain insight into how the program supports youth development through 4-H clubs, offers nutrition education to families, and provides resources to ensure the success and sustainability of our county’s agricultural industry. From soil testing and pest management to community workshops on home gardening and food preservation, the Cooperative Extension Program is at the heart of our efforts to cultivate a healthier, more prosperous Pender County.

Learn About the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center

Your adventure continues with a visit to the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center in Surf City. This renowned facility is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of sick and injured sea turtles. Founded by Jean Beasley in memory of her daughter Karen, the center has become a vital force in marine conservation, working tirelessly to protect sea turtles and educate the public about the importance of preserving our oceans and coastal habitats.

During your tour of the rescue facility, you'll meet the dedicated team of volunteers and staff who care for the turtles, hear the stories of the various patients currently undergoing rehabilitation, and learn about the different species of sea turtles that frequent North Carolina's coastline. Witness first-hand the rehabilitation process, from medical treatments and surgeries to feeding routines and exercises that prepare the turtles for their return to the wild.

At the center, you'll explore state-of-the-art tanks and enclosures where sea turtles are cared for and learn about the innovative techniques used to treat injuries, diseases, and other challenges faced by these amazing creatures. Understand the threats that sea turtles face in the wild, from habitat destruction and climate change to accidental capture in fishing gear.

Meet Sheriff Cutler: Understanding Public Safety in Pender County

Your journey begins with a visit to the Pender County Sheriff’s Office, where you will meet Sheriff Alan Cutler. With years of experience in law enforcement, Sheriff Cutler will provide an overview of how public safety operates in Pender County. Learn about his role and team's responsibilities in maintaining law and order across the county.

Sheriff Cutler will share insights into the strategic planning, community policing efforts, and crime prevention programs that the Sheriff’s Office implements to keep Pender County safe. You'll hear about the day-to-day challenges deputies, detectives, and support staff face as they respond to emergencies, investigate crimes, and work proactively to reduce crime rates.

Meet the New District Attorney and Understand the Justice System

Next, you will have the opportunity to meet Pender County's new District Attorney. The District Attorney (DA) plays a pivotal role in the justice system and prosecutes criminal cases, advocates for victims, and upholds the rule of law. Learn about the DA’s approach to justice, community safety, and legal reform, as well as their priorities for reducing crime and enhancing public trust.

You’ll gain a deeper understanding of how cases are handled, from investigation to prosecution, the collaboration between law enforcement and the DA’s office, and the challenges in ensuring fair and impartial justice.

Experience the Collaboration Between Public Safety and Justice

Throughout the tour, you'll see how public safety and the judicial system are intertwined to uphold the law, protect the community, and maintain peace and order. This visit will give you a comprehensive view of how different departments collaborate, from the Sheriff’s Office providing evidence to the DA’s team for prosecution to the Superior Court Judge facilitating the judicial process.

Dive into the world of emergency preparedness and response in Pender County by exploring the essential functions of Emergency Management, the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), and the Fire Marshal’s Office. Gain insights into how these critical services collaborate and operate independently to ensure the safety and resilience of our community in the face of emergencies and disasters.

Learn About Pender County Emergency Management

Pender County Emergency Management (EM) is crucial in the county’s emergency response network. This department is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to prepare for, mitigate, respond to, and recover from emergencies and disasters

• Preparedness and Planning: Learn how the EM team develops and maintains the county's comprehensive emergency plans, conducts community education and training programs, and coordinates with local, state, and federal partners to enhance preparedness. Discover their efforts in organizing disaster drills, public awareness campaigns, and community outreach events to build resilience across the county.
• Response and Recovery: Understand the EM's vital role during emergencies, such as coordinating first responders, managing resources, and providing logistical support to ensure a swift and effective response. Learn how they assess damage, restore services, and help the community recover after a disaster.

Learn About the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and What Activation Means

The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is the central hub for coordinating emergency response and recovery efforts during significant incidents or disasters in Pender County. The EOC serves as a command center where key decision-makers from various departments and agencies come together to manage resources, share information, and implement emergency plans.

• What Does EOC Activation Mean?: An EOC activation occurs when an emergency reaches a level that requires coordinated response efforts beyond the capabilities of standard daily operations. During activation, the EOC is staffed by representatives from emergency management, law enforcement, fire services, health departments, public works, and other relevant agencies. Each representative brings expertise and resources to manage the incident effectively.
• Levels of Activation: Discover the different levels of EOC activation—from partial activation for localized incidents to full activation for large-scale disasters like hurricanes or major wildfires. Learn what triggers each level and how the activation process ensures a timely and efficient response.
• Incident Command System (ICS): Understand the Incident Command System, a standardized approach used within the EOC to coordinate operations, manage resources, and communicate with all stakeholders involved in the response. Learn how the ICS provides a clear chain of command, ensuring that decisions are made quickly and effectively during an emergency.
• Roles and Responsibilities During Activation: Explore the diverse roles within the EOC, from logistics and planning to operations and communications. Learn how the team collects real-time data, assesses risks, allocates resources, and prioritizes actions to protect lives, property, and critical infrastructure.

Discover the Role of the Fire Marshal’s Office

The Pender County Fire Marshal’s Office plays a vital role in fire prevention, investigation, and safety education throughout the county. Their responsibilities extend beyond firefighting, encompassing a broad spectrum of activities designed to protect life and property from fire hazards.

• Fire Prevention and Code Enforcement: Learn how the Fire Marshal’s Office conducts fire safety inspections of businesses, schools, and public buildings to ensure compliance with fire codes and regulations. Discover their efforts in issuing permits, conducting safety assessments, and working with property owners to reduce fire risks.
• Fire Investigations: Gain insight into how the Fire Marshal’s team investigates the causes of fires, determines origins, and collects evidence in suspected arson or criminal activity cases. Understand how their investigative work helps improve fire safety practices and prevent future incidents.
• Public Education and Training: Explore the various programs and workshops offered by the Fire Marshal's Office to educate the public about fire safety, from smoke detector installations to fire extinguisher training and school programs. Learn about their collaboration with local fire departments and community organizations to promote fire safety awareness.

Learn about Pender EMS & Fire, Inc.

Pender EMS & Fire, Inc., is a unique, dual-purpose organization charged with delivering both Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and Fire Services throughout Pender County. This all-hazards response agency is responsible for:

• Emergency Medical Services (EMS): Providing advanced life support, pre-hospital care, and transportation for medical emergencies. The EMS teams are staffed by highly trained paramedics and EMTs who respond swiftly to 911 calls, ensuring patients receive immediate care on the scene and safe transport to medical facilities.
• Fire Services: Offering fire suppression, prevention, and rescue services. The firefighting teams handle a wide variety of incidents, including structural and wildland fires, hazardous material incidents, and vehicle accidents. Firefighters are equipped with specialized gear and tools to manage urban and rural firefighting challenges unique to Pender County’s diverse landscape.
• Heavy Rescue Operations: Responding to motor vehicle accidents and providing extrication services when necessary. Pender EMS & Fire teams are trained in heavy rescue techniques, using specialized equipment to safely remove trapped individuals and provide critical care in the moments immediately following an accident.
• Search and Rescue (SAR): Conducting search and rescue operations across the county, including challenging terrain like dense forests, waterways, and rural areas. The SAR teams collaborate with other local, state, and federal agencies to locate missing persons, whether lost hikers, hunters, or individuals affected by natural disasters.

How Do Emergency Services Work Together and Separately?

While Emergency Management, the Fire Marshal’s Office, Pender EMS & Fire Inc., and other first responder agents have distinct roles, they work closely together to ensure a unified response to any emergency.

Explore the Pender County School System and Cape Fear Community College

Get an in-depth understanding of the Pender County School System and the Cape Fear Community College (CFCC) system, two pillars of education that play a crucial role in shaping the future of students in our community. From primary education to higher learning, discover how these institutions provide diverse educational opportunities, foster academic excellence, and prepare students for success in their careers and lives.

Pender County School System: Building Foundations for Future Success

The Pender County School System serves as the backbone of K-12 education in Pender County, offering a range of educational programs designed to meet the needs of every student. With a commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement, the district strives to create a supportive and inclusive environment where every student can thrive.

• Overview of the District: The Pender County School System encompasses over 15 schools, including elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as special program centers. 
• Academic Programs and Curriculum
• Extracurricular Activities: Beyond academics, Pender County schools offer a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, music, drama, clubs, and organizations. These opportunities help students develop their talents, build leadership skills, and cultivate a sense of community and school spirit.
• Community Involvement and Partnerships: The school district maintains strong partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and government entities to enhance educational opportunities and foster community involvement. Learn about the many ways parents, guardians, and community members can get involved, from volunteering and mentorship programs to advisory councils and PTA participation.
• Facilities and Future Developments: Explore recent developments in the district, such as new school construction, facility upgrades, and technology enhancements aimed at creating safe and modern learning environments. Discover plans for future growth to accommodate the county's expanding population.

Cape Fear Community College (CFCC): Education and Opportunity

Cape Fear Community College (CFCC) is a key institution for higher education and workforce development in Pender County and the surrounding region. With its dedicated campuses and a wide range of programs, CFCC provides accessible, affordable, and high-quality education that prepares students for a variety of careers or transfer to four-year universities.

• Overview of CFCC: CFCC is a comprehensive two-year community college with over 160 degree, diploma, and certificate programs. The college operates campuses in Wilmington, Castle Hayne, Burgaw, and Surf City, North Carolina. CFCC serves a diverse student body of more than 20,000 students annually, catering to various academic and professional aspirations.
• Academic and Career Programs: Learn about the vast array of programs offered at CFCC, from associate degrees in Arts, Science, Engineering, and Applied Science to certificates and diplomas in fields such as healthcare, business, technology, and public safety. CFCC's Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs provide hands-on training and education in high-demand fields, ensuring graduates are job-ready.
• University Transfer Program: Explore CFCC’s popular University Transfer Program, which allows students to complete their first two years of a bachelor's degree at CFCC before transferring to a four-year university. This program is a cost-effective pathway for students to pursue higher education, with guaranteed transfer agreements with institutions in the University of North Carolina (UNC) System.
• Continuing Education and Workforce Development: Discover CFCC’s extensive Continuing Education offerings, which include short-term training, professional development, certification courses, and personal enrichment classes for individuals looking to enhance their skills or pursue new careers. The college’s Workforce Development Center partners with local businesses and industries to provide customized training programs that meet the evolving needs of the regional workforce.

Pender County Schools and Cape Fear Community College work together to provide seamless educational pathways for students. Here’s how they collaborate to enhance learning opportunities:

Career and Technical Education (CTE) Pathways: CFCC and Pender County Schools partner to offer CTE pathways, where high school students can gain hands-on experience and training in fields like healthcare, automotive technology, welding, and culinary arts. These pathways help students transition smoothly from high school to college or directly into the workforce.

Early College High School Program: Learn about the Pender Early College High School, located on the CFCC Burgaw campus, which allows students to earn both a high school diploma and an associate degree simultaneously. This innovative program offers an accelerated pathway to higher education for motivated students.

This exploration of the Pender County School System and Cape Fear Community College will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the educational landscape in Pender County. 

Pender County's approach to economic development, planning, and tourism involves collaboration with multiple agencies and organizations to create a thriving community. As part of the Citizens Leadership Academy, participants will have the opportunity to gain insights into these areas through various presentations and tours.

The Pender County Planning and Community Development team will present to citizens, highlighting the county's ongoing efforts in planning and zoning, land use regulations, and sustainable community development. This session will offer an in-depth look at how the county balances growth with environmental conservation, infrastructure planning, and maintaining the rural character that defines Pender County.

Pender County Utilities will also present to the citizens, focusing on the county's initiatives to promote clean water. They will also get an opportunity to tour the wastewater treatment plant. 

The academy will also include a tour of Pender Commerce Park, offering participants a firsthand look at one of the county's major economic assets. The tour will delve into the strategic planning behind the park's development, showcasing existing businesses, available resources, infrastructure, and future expansion plans. Participants will learn how the park contributes to job creation regional economic stability, and how it aligns with Pender County's long-term vision for growth.

In the Health & Human Services segment of the Citizens Leadership Academy, participants will gain valuable insights into the county's healthcare services and social support systems.

The Health Director will provide a detailed presentation to citizens, focusing on the county's health services, public health initiatives, and community wellness programs. This session will cover key areas such as disease prevention, health education, and the management of public health emergencies. Following the presentation, participants will have the opportunity to tour the department, offering a closer look at how health services are delivered and managed within the community.

Participants will also have the chance to meet our new Social Services Director, who will present to citizens about the county's social services programs and their impact on the community. The presentation will cover topics such as family support services, child welfare, and assistance programs for individuals and families in need.

Additionally, Pender Medical Center's (Novant) president and COO will present to citizens, discussing Novant’s role in the community, their services, and their contributions to local healthcare. This session will highlight collaborative efforts between Novant Health and Pender County to enhance healthcare access and quality.

The academy will include a Pender County Medical Center tour, allowing participants to see firsthand the facilities and services provided. The tour will offer insights into the center's operations, including patient care, emergency services, and specialized medical treatments. Participants will learn about the center’s role in the community, its contributions to public health, and how it supports the county’s health objectives.

As part of the Citizens Leadership Academy, participants will engage with local and state leaders to gain a deeper understanding of governance and community leadership across various levels. The sessions will provide valuable insights into how different municipalities and leaders collaborate to shape the future of Pender County and the surrounding areas.

Presentation by Pender County Board Chairman

The Pender County Board Chairman will open the session with an overview of the county's strategic goals, current initiatives, and challenges. This presentation will cover topics such as county governance, budget priorities, and collaborative efforts with other local and state entities. The Chairman will provide an update on ongoing projects and future plans for Pender County, emphasizing how these efforts align with the broader vision for community development.

Presentation by Burgaw Mayor

The Mayor of Burgaw will share insights into the town’s unique challenges and opportunities. This presentation will focus on local development projects, community engagement, and the town’s role in regional planning. The Mayor will discuss recent achievements, plans, and how Burgaw contributes to the overall growth of Pender County.

Presentation by Surf City Mayor

The Mayor of Surf City will provide an update on the town's initiatives and developments. Key topics will include coastal management and infrastructure improvements. The presentation will highlight Surf City's efforts to enhance the quality of life for residents and attract visitors while balancing growth with environmental considerations.