Cape Fear Botanical Garden is pleased to announce they have succeeded in meeting the Lilly Endowment Challenge Grant to raise $50,000 for the Cape Fear Botanical Garden Endowment of Cumberland Community Foundation, Inc. The grant was made possible by the Ashton Lilly Fund for Philanthropy, a charitable fund created in honor of the great philanthropy of Ashton Lilly, and Community Grants of Cumberland Community Foundation. The foundation will match the $50,000 dollar-for-dollar, thereby increasing the permanent endowment principal of the Cape Fear Botanical Garden Endowment by $100,000.
With sincere thanks to the generosity of donors and friends who contributed endowment gifts ranging from $50 to $10,000, Cape Fear Botanical Garden raised the $50,000 within the specified two-year timeframe.
The $50,000 match from the Ashton Lilly Fund and Cumberland Community Foundation will generate a higher annual payout which will provide sustainable support for the Garden's mission every year, forever.
The educational opportunities the Garden provides for students of all ages and abilities are among its most significant contributions. Each year they inspire and educate over 8,000 students from Fayetteville and Cumberland County and eight surrounding counties - Bladen, Harnett, Hoke, Johnston, Moore, Sampson, Robeson and Scotland - through unique experiences that cannot be found elsewhere in the region.
Brian and Staci Graybill opened their third business together, Market Square Pantry, in December 2025. Photo provided by Faith Hatton. For Fayetteville entrepreneurs Brian and Staci Graybill, building a business has often started when they were
The venue features two levels, two fully stocked bars, audio-video systems including projectors, and lighting solutions, an in-house culinary team, lounge space, a bistro section and private rooms, a state-of-the-art DJ booth and on-site staff to hel
Brad and Kelley McLawhorn became business partners in 2001 when they first opened a restaurant on Reilly Road. Now, their highly praised catering company continues to impress community members with flexibility, quality and personalized service. Photo
