Entertainment

Habitat for Humanity marks Women’s Month with build days, keynote dinner

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Tuesday, 24 February 2026

Written by Tara Kamiya

Fayetteville Area Habitat for Humanity will mark Women’s Month this March with two signature initiatives designed to celebrate women’s contributions while advancing the organization’s mission to expand access to affordable housing. The month-long observance will combine hands-on construction training with a community fundraising dinner featuring award-winning actor and stage director Phylicia Rashad.
The events will take place throughout March and are intended to highlight the role of women in building stronger communities. Organizers say the dual focus on skills training and fundraising reflects Habitat’s longstanding approach to empowering volunteers and supporting the construction and preservation of safe, affordable homes.
Women’s Build offers hands-on training
The organization will begin its observance with its annual Women’s Build event, scheduled for March 5, 6, and 7. Participants may register for one or more of the three days. The program will run from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day, with arrival permitted as early as 8 a.m.
The build will take place on the Fayetteville Area Habitat campus at 3833 Bragg Blvd., behind the ReStore and between 733 Bargain St. and 3833 Bragg Blvd. The event is open to women aged 18 and older and requires advance registration. The cost is $50 per participant per day.
Organizers describe Women’s Build as a celebration reserved for women and a chance to learn practical home construction and repair skills in a collaborative environment. Participants will receive instruction in drywall, plumbing, electrical basics, and tool safety. Attendees will also build a wooden keepsake to take home.
The annual build is designed to provide a welcoming space for women to gain experience with construction techniques that are often unfamiliar or intimidating to beginners. By offering instruction and hands-on learning, FAHFH seeks to encourage participation from volunteers who may not have prior building experience.
The Fayetteville Area Habitat for Humanity campus will serve as the central location for the project, allowing volunteers to work in proximity to the ReStore and other Habitat operations. Organizers emphasize that advance registration is required to participate in the build days. To register, visit https://fayettevillenchabitat.charityproud.org/EventRegistration/Index/26465
The Women’s Build initiative coincides with International Women’s Day, observed worldwide on March 8. The day emerged in the early 20th century from labor movements in North America and Europe when women demanded better pay, shorter hours, and voting rights.
The annual observance celebrates the social, cultural, economic and political achievements of women throughout history.
Fayetteville Area Habitat for Humanity will continue its Women’s Month programming throughout March, culminating in a fundraising dinner later in the month.
Fundraising dinner to feature Phylicia Rashad
The organization’s “Home is Where the Heart Is” event will take place on March 26 at Cape Fear Botanical Garden. Doors open at 5 p.m.
The dinner will feature actor and stage director Phylicia Rashad as the keynote speaker. Rashad became a household name for her portrayal of Claire Huxtable on the television sitcom “The Cosby Show,” a role that earned her widespread recognition and numerous honors and awards.
Her acting career has included appearances in NBC’s “This Is Us,” the Fox television series “Empire,” and Tarrell Alvin McCraney’s Peabody Award winning series “David Makes Man” on the OWN network.
Organizers say the event will serve as both a celebration and a fundraiser, bringing together supporters, volunteers, and community members to highlight the impact of Habitat’s work in the region.
Sponsorship opportunities are currently available. Single tickets are limited and can be purchased at https://fayettevillenchabitat.charityproud.org/EventRegistration/Index/26620
Proceeds from the dinner will help fund Habitat’s core programs, including the construction of affordable housing, critical home repairs, and youth education programs focused on routine home maintenance and repair.
Habitat for Humanity’s work in affordable housing is part of a broader international movement that began decades ago. In 1973, the Fullers took the Fund for Humanity concept to Zaire, now known as the Democratic Republic of Congo. After three years of work launching a successful house-building program there, they returned to the United States and brought together supporters to discuss the future of their vision.
Habitat for Humanity International was founded in 1976. Since then, the organization has grown into a global network focused on expanding access to decent housing.
More than 62 million people worldwide are building their futures on their own terms through access to safe and stable housing, according to Habitat for Humanity.
Connecting local action to global mission
The Fayetteville Area Habitat for Humanity’s Women’s Month programming reflects the broader Habitat philosophy that housing stability can transform lives and communities.
The Women’s Build provides a tangible opportunity for volunteers to learn construction skills while contributing to Habitat’s work. The fundraising dinner offers a chance for the community to support those efforts financially while celebrating the achievements of women.
Together, the events are designed to strengthen community engagement and support the organization’s long-term goals.
Encouraging community participation
Organizers encourage women to register early for the Women’s Build, noting that participants must sign up in advance to attend. The event is structured to ensure that volunteers receive guidance and training throughout the day.
Participants who choose to attend multiple build days will pay the registration fee for each day they attend. The schedule remains consistent across all three days, beginning promptly at 8:30 a.m. and concluding at 4 p.m.
The hands-on nature of the event is intended to foster confidence and practical knowledge while creating a supportive environment for participants to work together.
The March 26 dinner is expected to draw supporters from across the region. With limited tickets available, organizers say the event is intended to create a shared space for supporters to learn more about Habitat’s mission and contribute to its future work.
Affordable housing remains a central focus
Habitat for Humanity’s approach to housing centers on collaboration between volunteers, donors, and partner families. Funds raised through local events help support the construction of new homes and the repair of existing ones for families in need.
Youth education programs funded by Habitat teach routine home maintenance and repair skills, helping families sustain their homes and build long term stability.
The Fayetteville Area Habitat affiliate’s events in March are designed to support those ongoing efforts while recognizing the contributions of women in the community and beyond.
The landscape of blue collar work is changing. As more women enter trades this is a timely event that encourages women to leave the desks and roll up their sleeves. The work is often rewarding and maximizes women’s innate fine motor skills.
Participants can develop new skills and contribute directly to Habitat’s work. The “Home is Where the Heart Is” dinner will bring the community together to celebrate and support affordable housing initiatives.
By connecting local volunteerism with a global mission, Fayetteville Area Habitat for Humanity aims to continue expanding access to safe and affordable housing in the region.
Registration for the Women’s Build is open, and tickets and sponsorships for the March 26 dinner are available while supplies last.

(Bottom photo: Phylicia Rashad will be the keynote speaker on March 26 at the Fayetteville Area Habitat for Humanity's Home is Where the Heart Is dinner at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden. Photo courtesy of the Fayetteville Area Habitat for Humanity)

Lafayette Society annual luncheon promotes remembrance, welcomes newcomers

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Tuesday, 17 February 2026

Written by Anna White

On Sunday, March 8, members and prospective members of the Lafayette Society will gather to celebrate the legacy of the Marquis de Lafayette. A passionate abolitionist, patriot, human rights advocate, French aristocrat, and military officer in the Continental Army, Lafayette’s legacy lives on in his namesake city, Fayetteville.
“Especially during these times, as things have become increasingly difficult, the acts of kindness that Lafayette showed—I see those in our Fayettevillians,” said Ebony Warfield-Graham, president of the Lafayette Society.
Founded by Ms. Martha Duell in 1981 with the goal of raising funds for a statue of Lafayette, the Society continues to influence the Fayetteville community over 45 years later. The statue was erected at Cross Creek Park and dedicated in 1983 during Fayetteville’s Bicentennial Celebration. Now, the Society keeps Lafayette’s memory alive through lectures, performances, balls, creativity contests, and more.
The Annual Luncheon features a lineup of engaging musical and theatrical performances and is the perfect opportunity for both current members and those considering membership to learn more about the Society’s mission.
This year, Dr. Sonny Kelly, instructor of communication at Fayetteville Technical Community College, will give an excerpt from his performative lecture on the life of James Armistead Lafayette. Known as a professional performer, storyteller, motivator, and scholar, Kelly will bring to life the history of enslaved black man James Armistead Lafayette, who served in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War under the Marquis de Lafayette. He was later emancipated and took the Marquis de Lafayette’s surname as his own.
“He’s an amazing performer and amazing speaker,” Warfield-Graham said of Kelly. “He wrote this performance specifically for the Lafayette Society.”
While the entire performance commemorating James Armistead Lafayette’s life is an hour long, Warfield-Graham says attendees will hear an excerpt.
Other performances at the Luncheon include an ensemble from the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra and singing of the French national anthem. Luncheon will be catered by Two Brothers Catering.
“This is always a treat,” Warfield-Graham reminisced of past luncheons, “Good music, good food and Dr. Sonny Kelly—what more can you ask for?”
Attendance is usually between 100-125 people. This year’s Luncheon will be held at a new location: 226 The Warehouse. Warfield-Graham said they wanted to experiment with a different feel and setup, as well as have access to city parking in the lot directly across the street.
“It just makes it easy for everyone on a Sunday,” she explained.
There are no membership requirements to join the Lafayette Society other than a desire to promote Lafayette’s legacy of patriotism, according to their website. Family memberships are $30/year, individual memberships are $15/year, and student memberships are $10/year.
“We are, as they say, southern charm, kind, and generous and it shows,” Warfield-Graham said “That’s our goal as the Lafayette Society—to continue to help that shine and show kindness to everyone.”
The Lafayette Society Annual Luncheon will be held Sunday, March 8, noon to 2:30 p.m. at 226 Donaldson Street. Tickets are available for $40 at lafayettesociety.org.

(Photo: Attendees come together for the Lafayette Society's annual luncheon in 2025. This year, Dr. Sonny Kelly will be speaking at the event. Photo courtesy of Linda McAlister)

YMCA of the Sandhills to Host Summer Camp Kickoff February 21

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Wednesday, 18 February 2026

Written by Staff Report

Free and open to the public, families are invited to visit the Y  and learn about 2026 Summer Day Camp & Teen Programs  
 
The YMCA of the Sandhills invites families to the 2026 Summer Camp Kickoff on Saturday, Feb. 21 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at its Fayetteville YMCA and Saleeby Family YMCA in Cameron.  
YMCA Summer Day Camp registration will open March 3 at 8:30 a.m., but Camp Kickoff is a great way for parents and kids to meet camp staff, explore activities, and get answers to questions about registration, program schedules , and camp locations during this fun meet-and-greet event. 
“Summer Day Camp at the Y gives kids a chance to make new friends, stay active, learn new skills, unplug from screens, and have fun in a safe, supportive, welcoming place all summer long,” said Chealsea Sias, Association Director of Youth Development for YMCA of the Sandhills. “Our kickoff event is a great way for families to get a preview of the fun and growth that awaits this summer.” 
The Fayetteville Y will host the Camp Kickoff for kids in Cumberland County, and the Saleeby Family Y’s event is for kids in Harnett County. Parents and teens will also have the opportunity to learn about the Y’s Leader in
Training and Counselor in Training programs for teens at summer camp, where teens can grow their leadership skills and confidence.   The Y also offers its “Get Summer” program specifically for teens aged 12 to 18 in the
community. The Y provides a free summer membership with access to all the Y’s amenities, plus teen-only activities, trips, competitions and connections with community partners and mentors. “We’re focusing on overall well-being, including our teens’ physical and mental health, while also eliminating financial barriers that families may face,” Sias said.

Hit a home run at Segra with nonproft 2 Out Rally

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Tuesday, 17 February 2026

Written by Amanda Ransom

This spring, the crack of the bat and the cheers of the crowd will mean more than just a night of baseball in Fayetteville. 2 Out Rally, a local nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals impacted by illicit fentanyl and mental health challenges, is bringing the community together for an exciting Home Run Derby at Segra Stadium, featuring both a qualification round and a finals event.
The derby is designed to be a fun, family-friendly competition, but organizers say the heart of the event goes far beyond the scoreboard. It is an opportunity to rally around a cause, support the organization’s mission, and celebrate the power of community.
“For readers who may be new to 2 Out Rally, our vision is to honor the life of Alex Bradford by STRIKING OUT illicit fentanyl and RALLYING for mental health awareness. We envision a world where mental health is a priority, and no family has to endure the heartbreak of losing a loved one to fentanyl,” said Jeremy Bradford, Co-Founder and Vice President of Operations.
2 Out Rally was established in memory of Bradford’s son, Alex, who died from fentanyl poisoning in March 2022.
“Alex was a talented athlete who found his greatest joy on the baseball diamond, from tee-ball through his years as a varsity outfielder at Western Harnett High School,” Bradford said.
After high school, Alex pursued a business degree at UNC Wilmington, but his life was tragically cut short during his sophomore year.
The organization’s name reflects perseverance and hope, even in difficult moments.
“2 Out Rally is more than a name; it’s a refusal to quit. It’s the bottom of the ninth, two outs, when everything is on the line and you dig deeper than you thought possible. It’s the moment you choose to fight back,” Bradford explained.
He added that even when life feels darkest, there is still power to rally. Through the Alex Bradford Memorial Scholarship and community education efforts, the foundation works to build awareness and save lives. There are often heavy stigmas surrounding fentanyl and mental health, but Bradford believes sporting environments provide an opportunity to reach people where they feel safe.
“This event helps us meet people where they are comfortable,” he said. “These environments allow us to have candid, meaningful conversations with youth and parents about the real-world dangers they face. By breaking down these stigmas in a community setting, we can turn a tough conversation into a life-saving rally.”
The idea for the Home Run Derby came from a desire to create an event that was exciting, accessible, and meaningful for families across the region.
“The Fayetteville Woodpeckers approached us to host a Home Run Derby as a fundraiser in honor of Alex and our foundation’s work,” Bradford said.
The event is especially fitting because baseball was Alex’s passion.
“Our family spent countless hours in the yard playing home run derby with wiffle balls,” Bradford shared.
Now, this event will allow others to experience the thrill of hitting a home run on a professional diamond while supporting an important mission.
This inaugural year will include two stages: a Qualifying Round on Saturday, Feb. 28, followed by a Grand Finale on March 7. The Qualifying Round features three brackets: 13U (hitting from 2nd base toward a 210ft fence), 17U (hitting from 2nd base toward the 300ft stadium wall), and 18+ (hitting from home plate). Each player has two minutes and one 30-second timeout to hit as many home runs as possible. The top four from each division return on March 7 for the Grand Finale during the Woodpeckers’ Special Olympics softball tournament.
The derby is open to community members who want to participate, volunteer, or cheer on the hitters. Fans attending the qualifiers can also purchase Woodpeckers tickets, visit the gift shop, and even catch a glimpse of Bunker, the mascot. While Fayetteville has no shortage of community events, organizers say this Home Run Derby stands out because it combines high-energy entertainment with meaningful impact.
“What makes this event unique is it offers fans the rare joy of stepping onto a professional field,” Bradford said. “That feeling of hitting a home run, and the pride of a parent pitching to their child, is an experience we want every family to share. Beyond the sport, it provides a platform to bring awareness to the dangers of illicit fentanyl and the intersection of substance use and mental health.”
The event is also a key fundraiser for the foundation. A $25 registration donation goes directly toward supporting outreach efforts, educational programming, and Naloxone distribution. Funds raised help 2 Out Rally travel across North Carolina and the United States to raise awareness about illicit pills and the critical need for mental health support. The organization also provides life-saving Naloxone to community members free of charge. To date, the foundation has distributed nearly 1,200 doses.
“These funds allow us to train community members on opioid crisis response and speak at middle and high schools about fentanyl and mental health,” Bradford explained.
The organization’s annual Alex Bradford Memorial Golf Tournament has already raised more than $30,000, further expanding their ability to educate and serve communities nationwide.
As 2 Out Rally continues to grow, its long-term vision remains focused on expanding its reach and impact. Bradford encourages community members to stay involved beyond attending the derby.
“People can support us by following our social media pages and visiting www.2outrallyfoundation.org to stay updated on our events and learn how to get involved,” he said.
As the qualification round and finals approach, organizers hope Fayetteville will come out not only for the excitement of baseball, but to be part of something bigger.
“These topics—fentanyl and mental health—affect everyone, regardless of background, race, or status,” Bradford said. “Come out for the fun of the game, but stay for the message. Join us as we Rally for Mental Health and Strike Out Illicit Fentanyl.”
With competition, community spirit, and a meaningful mission at the center of it all, 2 Out Rally’s Home Run Derby promises to be a standout event at Segra Stadium, and a reminder of what can happen when Fayetteville shows up for a cause. For more information or to get involved, visit www.2outrallyfoundation.org

(Photo: A member of 2 Out Rally sets up a booth at a Fayetteville Woodpeckers game in 2025. 2 Out Rally is a local non profit dedicated to eradicating fentanyl and helping with mental health issues. The non profit also honors the life of Alex Bradford. Photo courtesy of 2 Out Rally Facebook page)