The Partnership for Children of Cumberland County is honored to receive the prestigious Spirit of North Carolina Award. This award, presented by the United Way of Cumberland County, recognizes our commitment to enhancing the lives of children and families in our community. We do this, not just through our organization but also by supporting other organizations. At the heart of this award is the spirit of collaboration, compassion, and commitment to building something greater than ourselves. Embry emphasized this by stating, “The spirit of collaboration, compassion, and commitment to building something greater than ourselves is alive and thriving in the work of the Partnership for Children.”

Mary Sonnenberg, president of the Partnership for Children of Cumberland County, accepts the Spirit of North Carolina Award presented by Scott Embry, executive director of the United Way of Cumberland County.
Scott Embry, Executive Director and CEO of United Way of Cumberland County, presented the award and shared heartfelt words about our organization. “It is an incredible honor to celebrate this remarkable organization and the individuals who reflect the best of our community and the great state of North Carolina—those who lead with purpose, give with intention, and inspire with action,” said Embry.
At the heart of this award is the spirit of collaboration, compassion, and commitment to building something greater than ourselves. Embry emphasized this by stating, “The spirit of collaboration, compassion, and commitment to building something greater than ourselves is alive and thriving in the work of the Partnership for Children.”
Every Child
We work to ensure that every child has the opportunity to grow up safe, healthy, and ready to learn. The Partnership provides support that helps ensure high-quality early childhood education, empowers families, and champions policies that strengthen our community. “Together, we share a mission that is powerful and deeply personal: to ensure that every child in our community has the opportunity to grow up safe, healthy, and ready to learn,” Embry highlighted.
This award is not just about our programs and services; it’s about the people we serve. “It’s about the mom who finds quality childcare to pursue a better future. The child who enters kindergarten confident and prepared. And our community coming together to ensure no one is left behind,” Embry shared.
We are incredibly proud of this recognition and grateful for the support of our community. “The Partnership for Children doesn’t just invest in early childhood—they invest in the future of Cumberland County. And they do so with excellence, year after year, demonstrating what it truly means to be a Spirit of North Carolina Award winner,” said Embry.
Thank you to everyone who has walked alongside us in this mission. Your belief in our work and your support make our community stronger. “Thank you for believing, like we do, that our community is stronger when we work together, lift each other, and never stop reaching for what’s possible,” Embry concluded.
Congratulations to the entire team at the Partnership for Children of Cumberland County on this well-deserved recognition. Together, we are building a brighter future for our children and our community.