Wrap up the day with an inspiring look at the people and programs making a difference across North Carolina. From innovative community partnerships to campus mobility initiatives and hands-on safety education, this session highlights successful projects that are creating safer, more connected communities. Hear from organizations and leaders who are turning ideas into action.
Andrew Meeker, North Carolina Greenway Manager for the East Coast Greenway Alliance, will share the story of the Island Greenway, a planned 4-mile trail connecting the existing Carolina Beach Island Greenway through Kure Beach to the Fort Fisher Ferry Terminal. The project brings together the Town of Kure Beach, the East Coast Greenway Alliance, and partners at multiple levels of government to navigate the challenges of developing a safe, accessible greenway through a complex coastal environment. Drawing on a 2024 feasibility study, Andrew will explore what this project reveals about planning, collaboration, and overcoming the obstacles involved in bringing major greenway connections to life.
Saundra Lewis, Director of Melanin in Motion will share how they are creating greater access to cycling for Black and Brown youth in the Charlotte community. Founded in 2021 by a group of women from the Leave Fear Behind Cycling Group, the program has grown from a single camp into a broader initiative providing bicycles, helmets, cycling instruction, mentorship, and outdoor experiences for children who may not otherwise have these opportunities. Through cycling, Melanin in Motion promotes confidence, healthy lifestyles, leadership, and sisterhood while helping increase representation in the cycling community.
Spencer Shawn, Hawk Wheels Support Office at UNCW will share how a campus bicycle shop has evolved into a broader effort to promote transportation independence, stewardship, and mobility. Through bicycle repair, registration, parking management, and community partnerships, UNC Wilmington is building a culture where every transportation choice is valued and everyone has the freedom to choose how they move.
Laura Beckum, State Programs Manager for MADD North Carolina, will highlight the organization’s prevention and education efforts from the past year. Learn how school-based programs, community partnerships, and volunteer engagement are helping empower individuals to make safe choices and create safer communities across the state.
Ellen M. Walston, MSW, ACSW, LCSW, will tell the story of the Winterville Traffic Safety Garden, one of the first permanent traffic safety gardens in North Carolina. Developed through a BikeWalk NC AARP grant and strong local partnerships, the garden gives children and families a safe, interactive space to learn bicycle and pedestrian safety while serving as a model for community collaboration.
Whether you’re looking for new ideas, proven strategies, or inspiration to bring back to your own community, this session offers practical examples of what’s working across North Carolina.
