Cumberland County has earned 17 Achievement Awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo), recognizing innovative programs that improve services and strengthen communities. The honors were presented during the 2025 NACo Annual Conference in Philadelphia.

The county was recognized across multiple categories, including Civic Engagement, Health, Information Technology, Libraries and Personnel Management. Award-winning programs reflect the work of several departments and underscore Cumberland’s commitment to excellence in local government.

Highlights from this year’s awards include:

• Leveraging Social Media for Engagement: The Public Information Office’s bold approach to short-form video and social media led to a 611% increase in engagement, broadening community outreach and visibility.
• Cumberland County Baby Store: An innovative health incentive program providing essential baby supplies in exchange for attending critical maternal and child health appointments, aimed at reducing infant mortality rates.
• Connected Care Program: A holistic, multi-department initiative addressing social determinants of health through coordinated care for vulnerable families.
• Cumberland County Healthy Conversations: A unique partnership with local barbershops and salons to bring health education directly into the community.
• C-FORT and Partner Portal: A coordinated opioid response effort that has reduced opioid-related ER visits and strengthened community collaboration through a custom-built digital platform.
• CumberlandONE: A comprehensive digital transformation strategy enhancing resident services, internet access, and equity in government interactions.
• Employee Childcare Center & Ignite Internship Program: Workforce-focused programs supporting county employees and developing future public service leaders.
• Miller’s Brew at Café West: A Public Library partnership providing job training and employment opportunities for individuals with special needs.
• Soldiers to Agriculture: A Cooperative Extension partnership with Fort Bragg to provide soldiers transitioning out of the military and veterans the opportunity to participate in a five-week program designed for active duty military (within 180 days of retiring), veterans and spouses that have chosen agriculture as their next career.
• WIC on Ft. Bragg: A Public Health Partnership with Fort Bragg Public Health, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, and UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center to address health disparities using data-driven strategies.
• Community Navigator: A Public Library position designed to address the increasing and evolving needs of the local community.

“These awards are a testament to the creativity, dedication, and collaborative spirit of our county departments,” said County Manager Clarence Grier in a press release. “We’re proud to be recognized nationally for programs that are making a real difference in the lives of our residents.”