TRENTON — The Jones County Community Development Corporation’s recent annual prayer breakfast is one of many things the organization offers.
It began 15 years ago by a dedicated citizen, Roy Fogle. Those concerned about the community in Jones County and the surrounding areas maintained its mission after he passed away, including Joletha White, who currently serves on the JCCDC Advisory Board.
The nonprofit started programs in Jacksonville before bringing it to Jones County two years ago via a new home at 2101 N.C. 58 S. The board acquired to property and made major renovations to the building.
“This facility brings it home to Jones County,” said White, a former Jones Senior High School principal. “The mission is to make our community better, it’s a struggle.”
The community center’s activities include reunions, plays, Thanksgiving dinners and even hosting other organizations in the county, such as the recently chartered Jones County Young Marines chapter.
The Young Marines, headed by spouses Cressie and Clifton Bennett, is for youth ages 8 to 18 and is the newest program on the JCCDC agenda.
It is a mentoring program set to instill respect, discipline and leadership in youth by using some Marine Corps tactics.
The Bennetts have been involved in the program through neighboring counties more than 10 years.
“The kids (in Jones County) need a program to help them better themselves,” Clifton Bennett said. “I feel like these kids will be better disciplined. The overall goal is to just build them up to be better people in society.”
Young Marines, though bearing the name, is not a military recruitment tool. It acts as a quasi-afterschool program for area youth. Children have opportunities to go on trips, engage in community service and receive promotions based on behavior.
The group holds information sessions every second and fourth Saturdays from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. in the JCCDC building in Trenton.
“We’re constantly expanding with programs like the Young Marines,” White said. “We’re optimistic.”
Jessika Morgan can be reached at 252-559-1078 or at jessika.morgan@Kinston.com. Follow her on Twitter @JessikaMorgan.
Want to know more?
- Jones County Community Development Corporation —252-259-3011
- Jones County Young Marines (Cassie and Clifton Bennett) — 910-539-9939