As we reflect on 2024, we’re filled with gratitude and pride for all that we’ve accomplished together. It’s been a year of growth, community spirit, and transformative moments. None of this would have been possible without the dedication of our board members, supporters, partners, and especially our volunteers. Here's a look back at some of the highlights that made this year unforgettable:

Key Highlights of 2024:

Name: WELDON IN ACTION
Address: WELDON

Weldon & Beyond Art Show

This year, we were thrilled to successfully host the Weldon & Beyond Art Show in collaboration with the Halifax County Arts Council. The event was a vibrant celebration of local talent, showcasing the incredible creativity of artists from the region. With a diverse range of works on display—from paintings, pottery to mixed media pieces—attendees were able to engage with the rich artistic culture of our community. The show not only provided a platform for these talented artists to share their work but also fostered a greater appreciation for the arts in our area, strengthening the connection between local creators and the wider community.

Civic Engagement Project

In 2024, our Civic Engagement project made significant strides in empowering the Weldon community to actively participate in the civic life of our town. From the outset, we committed to providing townspeople with opportunities to have their voices heard—not just during elections, but every day. Through our partnership with A Better Chance, A Better Community (ABC2), we received crucial support to foster regular engagement between citizens and town officials. Our primary goals have been to increase attendance at Town Council meetings, help citizens understand local government processes, encourage public speaking, and build an environment of collaboration that drives Weldon forward.

This year, we hosted three successful Watch Parties in February, April, and July, where residents could review recordings of Town Council meetings, learn the rules of engagement, and gain confidence in sharing their ideas. These events were not only informative but also oﬀered a space for communication and sharing experiences, accompanied by refreshments and activities to make participation enjoyable.

We believe that civic engagement is essential for the growth and prosperity of our community, and through these eﬀorts, we are fostering a deeper connection between Weldon’s residents and their local government. By working together, we can achieve more and create a town that truly reflects the needs and aspirations of all its citizens.

The Irvin Francis Kyle III Speaker Series

In 2024, we proudly continued our Weldon Heritage Speaker Series, now renamed the Irvin Francis Kyle III Speaker Series in memory of a beloved friend, pastor, and cherished pillar of the Weldon community. Pastor Kyle's dedication to the Weldon community and his passion for preserving local history and culture made him the perfect namesake for this important series. Over the past year, the Speaker Series has brought together a diverse group of speakers to explore and celebrate Weldon’s rich history, from its founding to the present day. These events have provided opportunities for residents and visitors alike to engage in meaningful conversations about our shared heritage, learn from experts, and reflect on the town's future. We are grateful for the support of the community and are committed to continuing this series in Pastor Kyle memory, ensuring that his legacy lives on in the conversations and connections fostered through this series.

The Ralph J. Bunche Historical Park for Education, Leisure and Recreation

In 2024, we made significant progress on our Ralph J. Bunche Project, which aims to honor the rich history of the former Halifax County Training School, the 1926 Rosenwald School, and the Ralph J. Bunche High School, all vital institutions for Weldon’s African American communities from 1905 to 1972. For alumni and residents, the site where these schools once stood is considered hallowed ground, filled with powerful memories.

The vision for Ralph J. Bunche Park is more than just the creation of another public space—it is a historical landmark, a tribute to the legacy of African American education, and a place where future generations can learn about the struggles and triumphs of those who came before them. The park will celebrate the contributions of early principals, teachers, students who integrated Weldon’s schools, and other influential figures in the town's history. It will also include a section, with timeline, about the development of the town of Weldon, along with an area for markers recognizing leaders and contributors to the town’s culture.

This project will complement nearby attractions and provide a space for reflection, celebration, and community, while also supporting local tourism and economic development. The park’s location, adjacent to an eight-mile-long historic canal trail and an antique mall housed in a restored cotton mill, will make it a welcoming addition to the town's growing cultural heritage.

Giving Tuesday Campaign – A Record-Breaking Success!

This year, we launched our first-ever Giving Tuesday campaign, and thanks to your incredible support, it was a resounding success. We are thrilled to announce that we raised over $3,829, nearly doubling our initial goal! These funds will directly fuel our ongoing initiatives, helping us make an even bigger impact in the Weldon community. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to everyone who shared, donated, and supported our mission.

Lights in the Night – A Festive Celebration to Remember

In December, we hosted our very first Lights in the Night event—a festive evening that lit up the season and brought our community together. With twinkling lights, warm drinks, and holiday cheer, it was a magical night that kicked oﬀ the holiday season in style. We are excited to make this an annual tradition!

Weldon Christmas Parade – A Joyous Celebration

This year’s Weldon Christmas Parade was a true highlight! With Alice Joyner Irby as our Grand Marshal, the parade was filled with floats, music, and festive cheer, lighting up the streets and spreading holiday joy. We’d like to extend a heartfelt thanks to all the participants, volunteers, and attendees who made this event truly unforgettable.

Saturdays in the Park – A Day of Fun and Community Connection

Our Saturdays in the Park events over the Summer were a huge success this year, bringing families together for outdoor fun, music, and connection. They were made possible by support from local sponsors and Resourceful Communities of the Conservation Fund. These gatherings have become a cornerstone of community spirit. Next year, we will continue outdoor events in several locations in town and are excited about generating days of fun and community connections!

Oral History Project – Preserving Weldon’s Legacy

We recently kicked oﬀ an Oral History Project this year, a long-term initiative aimed at capturing and preserving the rich history of Weldon through the voices of residents, former residents and those with a connection to Weldon. If you haven't yet, check out our growing collection of stories on our website: www.weldoninaction.com/oral-history. This project is an important part of our mission to honor the past while shaping a brighter future.

What’s Next for Weldon In Action?

From these exciting milestones to our ongoing projects, Weldon In Action is committed to connecting, empowering, and inspiring action across our community. As we look to 2025, we’re excited to continue building on the momentum we've created together. Whether you’re looking to get involved or simply stay informed, there are always ways to support our work and make a diﬀerence. We need your participation and your commitment to these important endeavors. You can get involved, even if you do not reside in Weldon.