News & Events

Growing Hometown Heroes

Recently, the Sampson County Board of Commissioners formally adopted a three-year Strategic Plan to serve as a roadmap for the County’s future economic programs and initiatives aimed at creating prosperity across Sampson County.

One of the five key goals identified in the plan is facilitating the retention, development, and attraction of talent. In other words, the County is working to support and help build a strong pipeline of skilled workers to meet the current and future demand for a qualified workforce. A talented workforce is essential to driving economic growth and supporting job creation within our community.

In support of this goal, Sampson County Economic Development is proud to share information about an exciting opportunity that community members are encouraged to consider: the Dark Horse Fellows Program. Learn more!

This innovative initiative was designed as a “Grow Your Own Teacher” program, helping to develop the next generation of educators. The program provides forgivable loans, resources, and mentorship to aspiring teachers who commit to returning and working in Clinton City Schools.

By investing in programs like Dark Horse Fellows, community members are strengthening our County’s workforce and its future—ensuring that the next generation of students is taught by passionate educators who call this community home.

About the Opportunity

An exciting community grant challenge was recently announced. The Anonymous Trust issued a challenge to the community:

• If 100 or more community members donate any amount to Dark Horse Fellows by November 1, 2025, the program will receive:
• Two $40,000 forgivable loans for Dark Horse Fellows seniors
• An additional $20,000 for the Dark Horse Fellows program
• Total grant value: $100,000!

Every contribution, no matter the size, will help Dark Horse Fellows reach this milestone and unlock the full $100,000 to support future educators who will give back to the community by teaching the next generation.

Donate Today!

Every donation helps Dark Horse Fellows reach its goal and demonstrates our community’s collective commitment to supporting the next generation of educators. Your contribution will not only provide crucial funding but also inspire others to give. By donating or pledging today, you can play a vital role in the success of this program and in shaping the future of our students.

Online (Preferred Method): 

• Register and donate quickly and securely through CheddarUp — it only takes a few minutes! 
• Credit cards and eChecks are accepted.

Cash:

• Select the cash option in CheddarUp.
• Cash can be hand-delivered to Mrs. Nacole Hayes, Administrative Assistant to the Superintendent, at the Clinton City Schools Central Office.

Check:

• Select the check option in CheddarUp.
• Checks may be hand-delivered or mailed to: Clinton City Schools, Attn: Nacole Hayes, 300 Westover Rd., Clinton, NC 28382
• Make checks payable to “Dark Horse Futures Foundation” and include your first and last name and “Dark Horse Fellows” in the memo line.

The Dark Horse Futures Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and all donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.