For 22 years, the Neuse River Bridge Run has been more than just a race – it’s been a powerful force for community change in Eastern North Carolina. In this conversation, Bridge Run Chair, Gary Kenefick sits down with Mary Ann LeRay to share how this historic event transforms athletic achievement into direct community support. From raising $125,000 last year to coordinating 300 dedicated volunteers, Gary reveals the strategic planning and passionate commitment that makes this event possible. Learn how your participation in the Bridge Run helps fund vital local organizations and strengthens our community bonds. Register to RUN/WALK/VOLUNTEER: bridgerun.org
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The interview features Mary Ann LeRay speaking with Todd Burrier from LifePlus. They discuss the origins and impact of LifePlus, particularly its philanthropic efforts through the LifePlus Foundation in supporting community initiatives like The Filling Station. The conversation covers the company’s history, its focus on holistic wellness, and the high standards of its nutritional products. Todd shares how he got involved with LifePlus and the company’s expansion into Europe.
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Tuesday, April 10th – Out of the Box Recipe Day Brenda Hall, a volunteer for The Filling Station, used items from Tuesday’s Food Pantry Distribution to create some yummy recipes good for your health and budget. Thank you Brenda for your creativity! Download the Demonstration Recipe File
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What happens when dedication meets creativity in rural community service? Find out in our latest interview with Jennifer King, Deputy Director of Administration for Jones County. With 21 years of experience in local government, Jennifer shares how a “whatever it takes” attitude is transforming how we serve our community. From innovative collaborations between county government and The Filling Station, to exciting new initiatives like the Community Closet project, Jennifer offers unique insights into building stronger rural communities. Her passion for Jones County and commitment to creative problem-solving shine through in this engaging conversation.
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Food Pantry Open Each Tuesday and Thursday 8:30 – 10:00 AM Online Registration CSFP – Commodity Supplement Food Program for Seniors 60 yrs and older Second Tuesday and Thursday of each month 9-11 AM Application and Approval required through Food Bank of Central and Eastern NC Find SNAP-friendly recipes for all seasons on the More In My Basket website at morefood.org/tips-recipes. You can also contact them for any SNAP-related questions by calling their toll-free line at 1-855-240-1451. #Recipes #SNAP
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Filling Station Podcast Interview with Janet Purvis of the Pollocksville Rotary Club In this episode, we explore the rich history and community impact of the Pollocksville Rotary Club through the eyes of Janet Purvis, a member whose father, Virgil Bender, was one of the club’s charter members when it was founded in 1948.The club celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2023. Janet shares heartwarming stories of their partnership with The Filling Station, including providing $10,000 in disaster relief funding after Hurricane Florence and organizing community events. From the now-retired Big Game Hunt Tournament that still generates scholarship funds to their upcoming […]
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Exploring Nutritional Resources in Our Community In this enlightening episode of the Filling Station Guest Podcast Series, Mary Ann LeRay, Executive Director of the Filling Station, sits down with Sarah Ware, a dedicated Family and Consumer Science Agent with North Carolina Cooperative Extension serving Jones and Onslow counties. Their conversation highlights the valuable partnership between these organizations and explores how Sarah’s expertise in food nutrition, preservation, and safety benefits community members of all ages. Listeners will learn about exciting new initiatives, including the teaching kitchen at the Filling Station for hands-on cooking classes, as well as upcoming community events like […]
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