GOLDSBORO, N.C. — Communities Supporting Schools of Wayne County is preparing for its largest annual fundraiser, with this year’s “Have a Heart for Kids” event scheduled for May 7 at the Goldsboro Event Center.
Executive Director Selena Bennett said the organization moved the event to a larger venue after outgrowing previous locations due to increased community support.
“We have moved it to the Goldsboro Event Center this year because we’ve literally outgrown the two spaces we’ve used in the past,” Bennett said. “It’s a good problem to have.”
The fundraiser will take place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and will feature a silent auction, live auction, and reverse raffle. Catering will be provided by Vail House, with food stations including shrimp and grits among the menu offerings.
Auctioneer Milton Turnage will lead the live auction portion of the evening.
The event serves as the nonprofit’s primary fundraiser each year, supporting expanded student programming across Wayne County.
Communities Supporting Schools partners with Wayne County Public Schools and currently provides services in 10 schools, including four elementary schools, four middle schools, and two high schools. Programs range from volunteer reading buddies and academic support to restorative justice initiatives aimed at helping students stay in school through graduation.
The organization also recently relocated to a new downtown office at 111 South Center Street in Goldsboro, near Maxway and within walking distance of the Paramount Theatre. The new space allows for expanded after-school programming and a new six-week summer enrichment program.
The summer program will include reading, academic support, arts, and STEM activities for students from kindergarten through eighth grade. Sessions are planned Tuesdays and Thursdays, with morning and afternoon options based on grade level.
Bennett also highlighted the importance of volunteers, noting that more than 200 volunteers contributed last year, with an estimated value of more than $314,000 in service hours.
Organizers are currently seeking sponsors and auction item donations for the fundraiser. Sponsorships begin at $5,000, with customizable opportunities available for businesses and individuals.
Tickets for the “Have a Heart for Kids” fundraiser are $100 per couple and include food, entertainment, and participation in the evening’s activities.
For more information, tickets, or sponsorship opportunities, visit WayneCSS.org or contact Communities Supporting Schools directly.
