Goldsboro, N.C. — The Wayne County Coalition for Addiction and Life Management, better known as CALM, is inviting the public to connect, engage, and heal at its upcoming Community Engagement Day, scheduled for Friday, May 30, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Herman Park, located at 900 Park Avenue in Goldsboro.
Led by Machelle Bass and her team, CALM is committed to bridging the often overwhelming gap between residents and critical support services. This event is part of their ongoing mission to build a healthier, drug-free community through access, awareness, and collaboration.
“One of the things we’ve noticed is that connecting with resources can become a daunting task for people in our community,” said Bass. “This event is about making those connections easier and more personal—putting faces to names, having real conversations, and getting people what they need to improve their lives.”
A Resource-Rich Experience for All Ages
The event will feature a variety of local vendors, nonprofits, and support organizations offering services ranging from healthcare and housing to addiction recovery and mental wellness. The first 100 attendees will enjoy free food from local favorite Justo’s Grillin & Catering, and all vendors will provide materials, giveaways, and opportunities for open dialogue.
“What sets this apart from just another tabling event,” Bass noted, “is the direct access. Sometimes picking up the phone or filling out a form isn’t enough. People need that human interaction—that ‘let’s talk right now’ kind of moment—and that’s what we’re offering.”
Collaborative Power: CALM and the City of Goldsboro
In an effort to amplify the impact of the event, CALM has partnered with the City of Goldsboro’s Commission on Community Relations and Development (CCRD). This collaboration is a testament to CALM’s deeply held belief in working across agencies to increase community access and awareness.
“CALM is very big on collaboration,” Bass emphasized. “When other agencies reach out with an idea or interest in partnering, we say yes. The more we work together, the better the outcomes for the people we serve.”
Open Doors for Community Partners
In addition to inviting the public, CALM is offering free vendor space to any organization or service provider that wants to participate. “If someone has a resource to offer and wants to be part of this event, all they need to do is reach out,” said Bass. “We’d love to have them.”
Not Just an Event—A Lifeline
While CALM has hosted similar events in the past, this is the first time it will be held at Herman Park, a central and well-frequented location in Goldsboro. The group hopes the open-air setting will encourage walk-up traffic and casual visitors who may not have known the event was even taking place.
“You might not need help today, but you may need it tomorrow—or you may know someone who does,” said Bass. “We want to make sure those doors are always open.”
The initiative is made possible through funding from Trillium Health Resources, and while CALM hopes to make it a recurring event, future efforts depend on continued community support and available resources.
An Invitation to Connect
Bass concluded with a simple but powerful message: “This event is for the people of Wayne County. All you have to do is come. Whether you’re in need, curious, or just want to say hello—come. Talk with us. Talk with the vendors. You never know how one conversation might change a life.”
For more information or to sign up as a vendor, community members can contact CALM directly.
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