We are excited to announce the formation of the Four Oaks Chamber of Commerce Foundation.
February 19, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Four Oaks Chamber Foundation Established to Strengthen Economic Opportunity, Workforce Development, and Community Programs
Four Oaks, NC — The Four Oaks Chamber Foundation proudly announces its formation as the official charitable arm of the Four Oaks Chamber of Commerce. The Foundation has been established to expand the Chamber’s mission of promoting economic opportunity, leadership development, and community enrichment throughout Four Oaks and the surrounding areas.
The Four Oaks Chamber Foundation is dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship, supporting small business development, and promoting sustainable economic growth. In addition, the Foundation advances workforce and leadership development by partnering with local schools, community colleges, and employers to prepare youth, emerging professionals, and residents for successful participation in the local and regional workforce.
The Foundation will also support and develop impactful community programs designed to enhance quality of life, strengthen civic engagement, and create opportunities for residents and businesses to thrive. Through educational initiatives, leadership programs, business support efforts, and collaborative community partnerships, the Foundation will serve as a catalyst for positive and sustainable growth in Four Oaks.
To further strengthen its impact and funding capacity, the Foundation will be working with Kelly Blanchard of Seven Petals Consulting, LLC as its grant consultant. Through this partnership, the Foundation will pursue strategic grant opportunities to support workforce initiatives, leadership development programs, entrepreneurship efforts, and community-based projects that align with its mission.
As a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, the Foundation will solicit and steward charitable contributions to fund initiatives that strengthen the business community, expand workforce readiness, and support meaningful community programs.
“The creation of the Foundation allows us to deepen our impact in Four Oaks,” said Joan Pritchett, Director and representative of the Four Oaks Chamber of Commerce. “Through charitable support and strategic partnerships, we can invest more intentionally in workforce readiness, leadership development, small business growth, and community initiatives—ensuring a vibrant and prosperous future for our community.”
Board of Directors
The Four Oaks Chamber Foundation is governed by a dedicated Board of Directors comprised of community and business leaders committed to advancing its mission.
The inaugural Board of Directors includes:
- President — Connie Grady, M.Ed., RN
Dean of Continuing Education & Health Sciences
Johnston Community College - Vice President — Barbara Keen
Retired Teacher - Treasurer — Tim Grady, CPA
Honeycutt & Grady - Secretary — Paul Papke
Retired Vice President, Dunlop Tire Corporation - Director — Joan Pritchett
Four Oaks Chamber of Commerce
The Board provides strategic leadership, financial oversight, and community guidance as the Foundation develops programs and partnerships that benefit the Four Oaks area.
For more information about the Four Oaks Chamber Foundation, partnership opportunities, or ways to contribute, please contact:
Joan Pritchett
Four Oaks Chamber Foundation
919-963-4004
fouroakschamberfoundation@gmail.com