High Point, North Carolina, has seen a year rich with community engagement and development. From educational initiatives to economic growth, the city continues to thrive through collaborative efforts.
AmeriCorps VISTA Volunteers Strengthen Community Ties
High Point University (HPU) has been instrumental in fostering community service by hosting AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) members. In October 2025, HPU welcomed five recent college graduates who dedicated a year to serving the local community. This marked the 13th year of HPU’s partnership with AmeriCorps, emphasizing the university’s commitment to community engagement. Kimberly Drye-Dancy, executive director of HPU’s Center for Community Engagement, highlighted the impact of these volunteers, stating, “Their commitment strengthens partnerships, builds opportunity and leaves a lasting impact on both the university and the city.”
High Point Discovered Celebrates Community Stories
In April 2025, High Point Discovered, a local nonprofit organization, celebrated the release of its fourth magazine volume with a community event at High Point City Lake Park. The publication focuses on sustainability initiatives within the city, showcasing local businesses, organizations, and individuals making a difference. The event featured experiential pop-ups from groups like Keep High Point Beautiful and Carolina Core FC, offering attendees opportunities to engage with featured organizations. Amber Williamson, executive director of High Point Discovered, emphasized the organization’s mission: “By bringing together the businesses, organizations, and community members featured in our magazine, we’re providing additional exposure for our business community, which directly fulfills our mission to communicate the stories of our city, connect our community and catalyze economic growth.”
Economic Development: Lindsay Street Project Breaks Ground
September 2024 marked the groundbreaking of a new mixed-use project on Lindsay Street, spearheaded by HP Ventures, LLC. Located across from Truist Point Stadium, the development is set to be completed in 2026. A central attraction of the project is Smitty and Pearl’s, a seafood-focused restaurant emphasizing fresh, local ingredients. The establishment will feature a state-of-the-art oyster bar offering premium oysters from both Coastal North Carolina and international waters. Co-developer Mark Penley expressed enthusiasm for the venture, stating, “High Point has been craving a unique dining experience, and we’re thrilled to introduce this concept to the community.”
These initiatives reflect High Point’s dedication to community service, storytelling, and economic growth, underscoring the city’s vibrant and collaborative spirit.