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Community Events

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June 2026

Introducing SAMHSA’s CCBHC Toolkit for Engaging Service Members, Veterans, and Families

Join SAMHSA for a webinar introducing Engaging Service Members, Veterans, and Families: A Toolkit for Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs). This new resource offers practical guidance to help CCBHCs strengthen outreach and engagement with military-connected populations. During the session, leaders from SAMHSA, state government, and a CCBHC implementation partner will guide participants through the toolkit’s key components.


They’ll share practical approaches for identifying SMVF within service populations and discuss why understanding military and Veteran experiences is essential for effective care. Presenters will also highlight strategies for forming strong partnerships with Veteran‑serving organizations to enhance coordination and support. Finally, they will explore the factors that shape engagement and care coordination, offering actionable insights CCBHCs can put into practice right away.


Date/Time: Tuesday, June 9, 2026, 2:00-3:30 p.m.

Registration: Register for the webinar

i2i Center for Integrative Health 2026 Spring Conference

Don't miss this year's i2i Spring Conference. The opening keynote, "Connecting and Strengthening the Mental Health and Criminal Justice Systems for North Carolinians," will feature remarks from Governor Josh Stein, followed by a system-level overview from Saarah Waleed, DMH/DD/SUS Chief Clinical Officer, Substance Use Prevention, Treatment and Recovery Services.

Waleed will lead a moderated panel discussion with cross-system leaders representing key initiatives across the continuum of care. The discussion will highlight programs such as Crisis Services, Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD), Treatment Accountability for Safer Communities (TASC), Forensic Assertive Community Treatment (FACT) Teams, and the North Carolina Formerly Incarcerated Transition (NC FIT) Program. Panelists will share practical insights, implementation strategies, and lessons learned to better serve North Carolinians with complex needs. 

This event brings together professionals, providers, and advocates committed to strengthening integrated care and improving outcomes for individuals with complex needs. Attendees engage in conversations on innovative care models, health equity, and collaborative strategies that drive whole-person care forward. With support from a wide range of sponsoring organizations, the conference offers valuable networking opportunities and access to emerging best practices across healthcare and behavioral health. It’s a key gathering for anyone working to advance coordinated, community-centered solutions.


Date: June 9-10, 2026

Location: Hilton Raleigh North Hills Hotel, 3415 Wake Forest Rd, Raleigh, NC

Registration: Register for conference

More Information: Visit the conference website and Download the conference brochure

Conference Agenda: View agenda

Beyond the Buzzwords: How Human Services Organizations Should Approach AI

Join Benchmarks' Corporate Partner, CaseWorthy for a timely webinar exploring how agencies can prepare for AI adoption while keeping governance, privacy, ethics, data quality, and human-centered care at the forefront. Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the health and human services landscape, yet many organizations are still determining what it truly means for their programs, staff, data, and communities. In this webinar, David Lewis will break down the current state of AI in human services and offer practical guidance on preparing for the future.

The session covers emerging trends, common misconceptions, governance considerations, and actionable strategies agencies should be exploring today, including how CaseWorthy approaches responsible AI for human services environments. It’s designed for leaders and teams seeking to understand AI more strategically while maintaining trust, compliance, and mission alignment.


Date/Time: Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 3:00 p.m.

Registration: Register for the webinar

Triangle Business Journal 2026 State of Health Care in the Triangle

The planned $2 billion-plus NC Children's Hospital will not only expand much-needed services for children's health, it will usher in a windfall of opportunities for Triangle-area businesses, from real estate, retail and hospitality developers to attorneys, accountants and bankers. Join us for a discussion of the regional impact of this transformative project along with the broader establishment of the Triangle as a destination for children's health care. Panelists also will discuss ongoing consolidation in the healthcare marketplace, and the winners and losers from it.


Date/Time: Thursday, June 11, 2026, 8:00-10:00 a.m.

Location: NC Biotechnology Center, 15 TW Alexander Drive, RTP, NC

Registration: Register for the event

North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilities (NCCDD) Policy Education Meeting

The North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilities (NCCDD) will host its monthly Public Policy Meeting to share key updates on state and federal policy issues, budget developments, and other matters affecting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). The Council’s public policy work focuses on providing clear, accessible information that supports informed decision-making and promotes full community integration for people with I/DD and those who support them. The meeting will include time for questions and open discussion. Please note that NCCDD provides public policy education and does not engage in lobbying on specific legislation.


Date/Time: Thursday, June 11, 2026, 10:30-12:00 p.m.

Registration: Register for the meeting

More Information: Visit the NCCDD website

SAMHSA Webinar: Addressing Cannabis Use Disorder in

Primary Care Settings - A Lifespan Approach

The prevalence of cannabis use and cannabis use disorder (CUD) is increasing in all age groups, in parallel with increasing product potency and public acceptance of use. Cannabis use has also increased among pregnant women, despite evidence linking prenatal cannabis use to adverse neonatal and maternal health outcomes.


Based on SAMHSA’s recently released Advisory: Addressing Cannabis Use Disorder in Primary Care Settings—A Lifespan Approach, this webinar provides healthcare professionals with evidence-informed guidance on cannabis use and CUD across the lifespan.


Date/Time: Thursday, June 11, 2026, 1:30 p.m.

Registration: Register for the webinar

Addiction Professionals of North Carolina Training

Strategic Hiring, Leadership, and Workforce Development in Behavioral Health

Presented by Emanual Wilder, this interactive training is designed for professionals across various fields and career stages who are looking to strengthen their leadership, hiring, and professional development skills. Participants will gain practical strategies to improve recruitment practices, reduce bias in hiring, enhance candidate evaluation, and support career growth and advancement. Through applied exercises and real-world scenarios, the training addresses key professional challenges including onboarding, leadership development, performance improvement, and long-term career success.


Date/Time: Thursday, June 11, 2026, 3:00 p.m.

Location: Pinnacle Financial Partners, 3515 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh, NC

Registration: Register for the training

NCHEC Collegiate Summit

Made possible in part through support from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the NCHEC Collegiate Summit brings together campus and community partners from across the state for a full day of learning, collaboration, and connection. This year’s summit will focus on collegiate substance use and the practical, prevention-to-recovery strategies our communities can use to create meaningful change.


Date/Time: Friday, June 12, 2026, 8:00-4:30 p.m.

Location: Meredith College, 3800 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, NC

Registration: Register for the summit

Opioid and Prescription Drug Abuse Advisory Committee Meeting

Join DMH/DD/SUS for the quarterly Opioid and Prescription Drug Abuse Advisory Committee (OPDAAC) meeting. The session will feature expert presentations and panel discussions on advancing the priorities of the NC Opioid and Substance Use Action Plan. Attendees can engage with leading subject matter experts, connect with peers and gain new perspectives through focused dialogue. This is a quarterly meeting, and the public is invited to attend. 


Date/Time: Friday, June 12, 2026, 9:30-12:00 p.m.

Registration: Register for the meeting

Meet & Greet with NCDHHS

The Hispanic Federation and NCDHHS staff will host an open forum to gather community perspectives on Medicaid, SNAP, mental health services, disability programs, and other key supports. The event will provide an opportunity to share experiences, learn about recent program changes, and discuss needs within immigrant and refugee communities. Participation is intended for staff from immigrant and refugee organizations and community health workers, with two representatives per organization requested.


Date/Time: Friday, June 12, 2026, 9:30-5:00 p.m.

Location: Drakeford Library Complex, 203 South Greensboro Street, Carrboro, NC

Registration: Register for the event

More Information: Download the event flyers in English and Spanish

L'Arche NC: Run, Walk & Roll Event

Join L'Arche North Carolina for the inaugural Forward in Friendship Run, Walk & Roll in Durham. Participants of all abilities can choose their distance — 500 ft., 1 mile, or a 5K (3.12 miles) — making this a fun and inclusive event for everyone. Every participant who registers and completes their distance will receive a commemorative tee shirt and medal.


This race is not officially timed. All proceeds support L’Arche North Carolina’s Forward in Friendship campaign to purchase the Friendship Houses in Durham, continuing their legacy of housing, friendship, and belonging for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through L’Arche’s model of shared life, care, and community.


Date/Time: Saturday, June 13, 2026, 9:00 a.m.

Location: Miracle League Baseball Field, 473 Morehead Avenue, Durham, NC 

Registration: Register for the event

More Information: Download the event flyer

2026 North Carolina Prevention Conference

Made possible in part through support from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the North Carolina Prevention Conference is the only annual statewide event dedicated specifically to strengthening primary prevention efforts across North Carolina. Whether you work in prevention services, coalition building, education, or public health, this conference offers a unique opportunity to learn, collaborate, and explore the latest trends, best practices, and community-driven strategies in substance use prevention. This year’s conference also features a Youth Track for high school-aged youth created by Wilkes Youth Life Development.


Date: June 15-16, 2026

Location: McKimmon Center, 1101 Gorman Street, Raleigh, NC 

Registration: Register for the conference

Tarang Webinar: Caring with Compassion for Your Loved Ones and Yourself

Dementia rates are rising in Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities, and more than half of AAPI adults are providing care for an older family member. Join us for a culturally centered conversation about what brain disease looks like in AAPI communities and how its effects show up in daily life. This session will feature a panel discussion focused on the realities of caregiving, balancing responsibility, cultural expectations, and the emotional toll it can take. Participants will learn supportive strategies for caring for loved ones while also protecting their own mental well‑being.


Date: Tuesday, June 16, 2026, 4:00-5:00 p.m.

Registration: Register for the webinar

More Information: Download the event flyer

Inclusion Works Lunch and Learn

School to Work Transition Services for Youth with I/DD

Join Inclusion Works to learn about best practices to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) on their path to achieving Competitive Integrated Employment. This month's Lunch and Learn focuses on the transition from school to work. Inclusion Works is excited to welcome Stephanie Haynes from the Division of Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities (EIPD) for an informative session on how transition services support youth with I/DD as they move from school-based services into the workplace and greater independence.


Haynes will share helpful information, practical insights, and resources for understanding this important stage of planning and support. Whether you are a self-advocate, family member, educator, provider, employer, or community partner, this session will offer valuable information on creating smoother, more successful pathways to employment. 


Date/Time: Wednesday, June 17, 2026, 12:00-1:00 p.m.

Registration: Register for the webinar

Closed-Captioning & American Sign Language Interpreters will be provided.

North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilities (NCCDD) Self Advocate Discussion Series

June Topic: Voting Rights

This month’s Self-Advocate Discussion Series will foucs on voting rights and developing effective plans for participating in upcoming elections. The session will feature Kenya Meyers, Voting Rights Project Manager at Disability Rights North Carolina, who will provide information, resources, and advocacy guidance related to voting for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). The discussion will also include an opportunity for participants to share experiences and identify supports that can help make the voting process more accessible and empowering for people with I/DD in North Carolina.


Date/Time: Wednesday, June 17, 2026, 1:00-2:00 p.m.

Registration: Register for the webinar

More Information: Visit the Discussion Series webpage

Trillium Health Resources Post Disaster Simulation

Trillium Health Resources is hosting a Post‑Disaster Simulation designed to help participants better understand disaster preparedness. This interactive experience walks you through the weeks following a disaster, offering insight into the challenges individuals face as they navigate recovery. The session also highlights the additional barriers encountered by people living with mental illness, developmental disabilities, and substance use disorders. This free event is open to the public and offers a valuable opportunity to build awareness and strengthen community resilience.


Date/Time: Thursday, June 18, 2026, 8:30-12:00 p.m.

Location: Manteo First Assembly's Connect Center, 812 Wingina Avenue, Manteo, NC

Registration: Register for the simulation

More Information: Download the event flyer

Benchmarks Public/Private Behavioral Health Forum

Don't miss the 2026 Public/Private Behavioral Health Forum, an essential event for professionals across the sector. The morning will feature insights from Benchmarks President and CEO Karen McLeod, Assistant Secretary for Mental Health, I/DD and Substance Use Service Kelly Crosbie and NC Medicaid’s Melanie Bush. They will share timely updates on federal and state Medicaid developments, legislative activity, and emerging behavioral health priorities.


Following a catered lunch and opportunities to connect with our corporate partners, the afternoon will feature with a cross-division NCDHHS panel exploring clinical policy, substance use, I/DD, mental health, facility licensure, and Medicaid innovations. This forum offers a valuable opportunity to engage with leaders, deepen your understanding of current initiatives, and connect with colleagues shaping the future of behavioral health in North Carolina.


Date/Time: Friday, June 19, 2026, 10:30-2:30 p.m.

Location: Royal Banquet & Conference Center, 3801 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, NC 

Registration: Register for the forum

Bringing Questions, Building Solutions: The Link Center Summer Office Hours

The Link Center is pleased to introduce a limited Summer Office Hours Series, offering state agency staff working at the intersection of disability and mental health (I/DD, MH, BI, CW, and Medicaid) an opportunity to engage directly with national experts. These monthly sessions provide a collaborative, small-group forum for participants to bring forward real-world questions and challenges.


Attendees will benefit from the extensive experience of Dr. Debra Pinals and Dr. Stacy Nonnemacher, who bring deep expertise in navigating complex service systems, forensic involvement, co-occurring I/DD and mental health needs, complex behavior, autism, and the intersection of mental health and substance use. This series offers a unique chance to connect with leading practitioners and explore solutions to the challenges faced across systems of care.


Date/Time: Tuesday, June 23, 2026, 10:00-12:00 p.m.

Registration: Register for the office hours

Permanent Supportive Housing and Targeting Program Webinar

Join Inclusion Connects for an informative webinar on Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) and the Targeting Program, led by Angela Harper King, Housing Specialist at DMH/DD/SUS, and Detra Purcell, Section Chief of Housing and Homelessness at the Division of Aging. This session will provide an overview of PSH, including its key benefits and its role as a best-practice housing model for people with disabilities and those who are homeless. Presenters will also outline the vital role housing specialists play within LME/MCOs and explain how the Targeting Program can support referrals for people with I/DD. Participants will leave with a stronger understanding of how these coordinated efforts help expand stable, community‑based housing opportunities.


Date/Time: Wednesday, June 24, 2026, 12:00-1:00 p.m.

Registration: Register for the webinar

Closed-Captioning and American Sign Language Interpreters will be provided.

NC Medicaid 1115 Waiver Virtual Forum

In accordance with federal requirements, NC Medicaid will host its annual virtual forum on the 1115 Waiver. The forum will provide updates on the implementation of the 1115 Waiver and include an opportunity for participants to ask questions. In December 2024, North Carolina received federal approval to renew its Section 1115 Medicaid demonstration waiver for another five-year period. The waiver aims to improve health and well-being for all North Carolinians through a whole-person, well-coordinated system of care that addresses both medical and non-medical drivers of health and advance health access. 


Date/Time: Wednesday, June 24, 2026, 1:00-2:00 p.m.

Registration: Register for the forum

The Council Presents Educational Webinar Series: Plain Language

Plain Language is “clear, straightforward, and only uses words necessary to make sure all people can understand and participate.” This definition is from the Association for University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD). Join us to learn more about Plain Language. We will talk about how to write and speak using Plain Language, why it is helpful, and more. The discussion will include Liz Weintraub, who works for AUCD as Senior Advisory Specialist. Liz has taught many of us how to advocate and use Plain Language in our policy and advocacy work. Her podcast “Tuesdays with Liz” uses Plain Language discussion of important policy topics every week.


The Council Presents is a monthly webinar series hosted by the North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilities. It shares helpful information, resources, and discussions about issues that matter to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Each session includes expert speakers, community updates, and chances to connect with people with I/DD, families, and professionals.


Date/Time: Thursday, June 25, 2026, 1:00-2:00 p.m.

Registration: Register for the webinar

Lead Appalachia Youth Conference

Registration for Lead Appalachia 2026, a youth centered leadership conference at the Yadkin Valley Event Center and Holiday Inn Wilkesboro. Hosted by Wilkes Youth Life Development (WYLD), the conference brings together youth leaders, educators, prevention professionals, and community partners from across the region for several days of learning, connection, and collaboration.


This year’s conference will focus on substance use prevention, mental health, and workforce development, with a strong emphasis on elevating youth voice and youth led solutions. The cost to attend is $600 for adults and $500 for youth, which includes conference registration, meals, and lodging.


Date: June 22-25, 2026

Location: Holiday Inn Express: Yadkin Valley Event Center, 1700 Winkler Street, Wilkesboro, NC

Registration: Register for the conference

More Information: Download the event flyer

July 2026

Trillium Health Resources Post Disaster Simulation

Trillium Health Resources is hosting a Post‑Disaster Simulation designed to help participants better understand disaster preparedness. This interactive experience walks you through the weeks following a disaster, offering insight into the challenges individuals face as they navigate recovery. The session also highlights the additional barriers encountered by people living with mental illness, developmental disabilities, and substance use disorders. This free event is open to the public and offers a valuable opportunity to build awareness and strengthen community resilience.


Date/Time: Wednesday, July 1, 2026, 8:30-12:00 p.m.

Location: Lenoir County Cooperative Extension, 1791 NC-11, Kinston, NC

Registration: Register for the simulation

More Information: Download the event flyer

NC Medicaid Lunch & Learn: NC Strategic Housing Plan

Join NC Medicaid for a Lunch and Learn focused on the NC Strategic Housing Plan, a statewide initiative designed to address the housing needs of individuals with disabilities. This session will provide an overview of how the plan supports people who are receiving or eligible for NCDHHS‑funded services, including those experiencing homelessness, living in congregate settings, or at risk of entry into these settings. Josh Walker, Manager of the NCDHHS Strategic Housing Plan, will share insights into the plan’s goals, strategies, and impact across NC.


Date/Time: Monday, July 13, 2026, 12:00-1:00 p.m.

Registration: Register for the Lunch & Learn

Bringing Questions, Building Solutions: The Link Center Summer Office Hours

The Link Center is pleased to introduce a limited Summer Office Hours Series, offering state agency staff working at the intersection of disability and mental health (I/DD, MH, BI, CW, and Medicaid) an opportunity to engage directly with national experts. These monthly sessions provide a collaborative, small-group forum for participants to bring forward real-world questions and challenges.


Attendees will benefit from the extensive experience of Dr. Debra Pinals and Dr. Stacy Nonnemacher, who bring deep expertise in navigating complex service systems, forensic involvement, co-occurring I/DD and mental health needs, complex behavior, autism, and the intersection of mental health and substance use. This series offers a unique chance to connect with leading practitioners and explore solutions to the challenges faced across systems of care.


Date/Time: Tuesday, July 14, 2026, 1:00-3:00 p.m.

Registration: Register for the office hours

The Link Center Shared Learning Groups Virtual Gathering Series

Slow Down, Listen, and Respond with Humanity:

Suicide Prevention Support Strategies for People with Co-Occurring Conditions

When navigating complex, co-occurring conditions, people can often feel trapped and see no way out, placing them at a higher risk for suicide. While every experience is unique, the most powerful intervention often begins when we slow down, listen deeply, and respond with intention.


Join this upcoming Shared Learning Group as we ground ourselves in lived experiences. We will discuss critical warning signs and risk factors, while sharing actionable strategies and resources to provide ongoing support and restore a sense of hope. There are four sessions on the same topic for different target audiences. Please register for the session most relevant to you, or whichever best fits into your schedule. See the event flyer for session options.


Date: July 29 and July 30, 2026

Registration: Register for the webinar

More Information: Download the event flyer

Save The Date

Mountain Area Health Education Center (MAHEC) Webinar Series

Emerging Substances and Over‑the‑Counter Drugs of Abuse: What We Know and

How to Respond to Reduce Injury and Overdose

Join MAHEC for a two-part webinar series, supported in part by NCDHHS, exploring emerging substances and over-the-counter products linked to misuse in Western North Carolina. Topics include xylazine, kratom, novel potent opioids, and other non-prescription substances increasingly seen in clinical settings. Participants will learn about patterns of use, overdose risks, related medical complications, and patient-centered, low-barrier approaches to care, including risk reduction strategies and medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD).


Date: Friday, August 7 and August 21, 2026, 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Registration: Register for the webinar series

NC Medicaid Lunch & Learn: NC Strategic Housing Plan

Join NC Medicaid for an informative overview of North Carolina’s Multisector Plan for Aging (MPA), known as All Ages All Stages. This statewide initiative provides a comprehensive roadmap to enhance quality of life and promote well‑being for older adults across North Carolina. Caylee Weaver, Planner/Evaluator, NCDHHS Division of Aging will discuss the vision, goals, and collaborative efforts behind the plan.


Date/Time: Monday, August 10, 2026, 12:00-1:00 p.m.

Registration: Register for the Lunch & Learn

Bringing Questions, Building Solutions: The Link Center Summer Office Hours

The Link Center is pleased to introduce a limited Summer Office Hours Series, offering state agency staff working at the intersection of disability and mental health (I/DD, MH, BI, CW, and Medicaid) an opportunity to engage directly with national experts. These monthly sessions provide a collaborative, small-group forum for participants to bring forward real-world questions and challenges.


Attendees will benefit from the extensive experience of Dr. Debra Pinals and Dr. Stacy Nonnemacher, who bring deep expertise in navigating complex service systems, forensic involvement, co-occurring I/DD and mental health needs, complex behavior, autism, and the intersection of mental health and substance use. This series offers a unique chance to connect with leading practitioners and explore solutions to the challenges faced across systems of care.


Date/Time: Thursday, August 13, 2026, 1:00-3:00 p.m.

Registration: Register for the office hours

Optimizing Outcomes: Maternal Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders Summit

The Maternal Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders Summit will will bring together healthcare and public health professionals from across North Carolina to advance maternal mental health care. This year’s Summit will feature updates on screening, treatment, and integrated care approaches for maternal mental health and substance use disorders, while also highlighting strategies to reduce stigma and expand access to care. Participants will engage in peer-to-peer learning across perinatal care regions, explore emerging recommendations and resources, and identify practical strategies to support practice change and improve outcomes for perinatal patients and families.


Date/Time: Friday, August 14, 2026, 8:00-3:30 p.m.

Location: DoubleTree Atlantic Beach Oceanfront, 217 West Fort Macon Road, Atlantic Beach, NC

Registration: Register for the summit

NC Medicaid Quarterly Money Follows the Person Roundtable

Join NC Medicaid for the third quarterly Money Follows the Person (MFP) Roundtable. This session will feature a panel discussion with LME/MCO representatives highlighting innovative housing initiatives and creative strategies being used to address housing challenges for the populations we serve. MFP is a state program that helps NC Medicaid-eligible North Carolinians living in inpatient facilities move into their own homes and communities with supports. For more information about the program, how to apply, and additional details, visit the MFP webpage.


Date/Time: Friday, August 21, 2026, 12:00-2:00 p.m.

Registration: Register for the roundtable

2026 Family and Youth Treatment Court Virtual Conference 

The 2026 Family and Youth Treatment Court Virtual Conference is a two‑day event bringing together judges, attorneys, coordinators, clinicians, child welfare professionals, peer support specialists, and community partners for training and collaboration. The program includes keynote speakers, panel discussions, four plenaries, and more than 20 concurrent sessions. Sessions are organized into Youth Treatment Court, Family Treatment Court, and joint FTC/YTC tracks, allowing attendees to tailor their experience to their specific roles and court types.


Date: September 29-30, 2026

Registration: Register for the conference

More Information: View conference agenda

North Carolina Down Syndrome Alliance 2026 Buddy Walk

The North Carolina Down Syndrome Alliance (NCDSA) Buddy Walk is the organization's largest event of the year. Each year, nearly 2,000 participants come together for a day that feels like a true family reunion, bringing together individuals with Down syndrome, their families, friends, and supporters from across the state.


Registration is free! Register your team by June 30 to earn your team incentive. New teams will get a free custom yard sign with a QR code to your team's page. Returning teams will get a free Walk of Fame route marker sign.


Date: Sunday, October 18, 2026

Location: Sugg Farm, 2401 Grigsby Avenue, Holly Springs

Registration: Register for the Buddy Walk