Welcome to "The Pine Needler," your go-to source for all things happening in the Central Pines Region! We're here to keep you in the loop with our bi-monthly updates on upcoming events and regional news. Stay connected with us as we bring you the latest happenings and stories that will surely make your day pine-tastic! | | Annual Member Survey Launches TODAY! | Your feedback helps us better understand what's working well and where we can improve. Whether you've partnered with us, attended an event, participated in a program, or simply want to share your perspective, we want to hear from you. | The survey takes just a few minutes to complete, and every response helps guide future services, communications, and regional initiatives. Please complete the survey by September 10 and help us better serve our region. | For fun, each week we will post a weekly leaderboard to showcase the communities with the most participation. Which community will be at the top the first week? | |
- Annual Member Survey
- AI in Local Government Training
- Powerful Tools for Caregivers Training
- LOGO Career Expo
- Engaging Women of Color in Public Service Conference
- Meet Our Newest CPRC Employees
| Popular Links & Resources |
- Career Opportunities
- Upcoming Events
| | | AI in Local Government Training | Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing the way organizations work, and local governments are increasingly exploring how these tools can support operations, improve efficiency, and enhance public services. | This interactive workshop, hosted by Central Pines Regional Council's Strategy & Innovation group in partnership with the Beeck Center, is designed to help local government professionals better understand the opportunities, risks, and practical applications of AI in the public sector. | |
EVENT DETAILS:
Date: Thursday, August 13, 2026
Time: 1:00 - 4:00 pm
Location: CPRC Office, Durham & Virtual
Cost: Free for local government staff and officials
| | | Powerful Tools for Caregiver Training | |
Family and informal caregivers are invited to participate in Powerful Tools for Caregivers, a free six-week virtual workshop designed to help caregivers reduce stress, communicate more effectively, make difficult caregiving decisions, and build confidence while caring for others. Classes will be held Tuesdays from August 18 through September 22, 2026, from 6:00–7:30 p.m.
The workshop is offered at no cost by Central Pines Area Agency on Aging, with materials provided through funding from the National Family Caregiver Support Program. To register or learn more, contact Jennifer Link at jlink@centralpinesnc.gov or 919-558-9391.
| |
TRAINING DETAILS:
Date: August 18 - September 22, every Tuesday
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 pm
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free
How to Register: Contact Jennifer Link, CPRC Area Agency on Aging Family Caregiver Support Program Coordinator at jlink@centralpinesnc.gov or 919-558-9391
| | |
Local Government (LOGO) Career Expo Happening This Month!
The 2026 Local Government Career Expo is coming to the McKimmon Center in Raleigh on Saturday, August 29, from 1:00 –4:00 pm. The Expo connects local governments from across central North Carolina with job seekers interested in meaningful careers in public service. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet employers, explore career paths, and learn about the many rewarding opportunities available in local government.
| We encourage you to share this event with your networks, including students, recent graduates, job seekers, community organizations, and anyone considering a career change. Whether through your newsletter, social media, website, or other communications, your support helps us reach the next generation of local government professionals and strengthen the workforce that serves our communities. | |
EVENT DETAILS:
Date: Saturday, August 29
Time: 1:00 - 4:00 pm
Location: McKimmon Center
Cost: Free for Job Seekers
| | | Engaging Women of Color in Public Service Conference | |
Join public servants from across North Carolina for the 2026 Engaging Women of Color in Public Service (EWC) Annual Conference, a day dedicated to connection, empowerment, professional growth, and collective care.
This year's keynote presentation, "Paying the Black Tax at Work: A Trauma-Informed Workshop Experience," will be led by Crystal R. Currie, Ph.D., LCMHC, Founder and CEO of ThriveWell Strategies. Through a trauma-informed lens, Dr. Currie will explore the often-unspoken emotional, mental, and professional burdens that many women of color experience in workplace environments. Participants will gain practical tools for navigating workplace challenges, prioritizing well-being, and fostering resilience while advancing in public service careers.
| |
EVENT DETAILS:
Date: Friday, October 2
Time: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Location: Chatham County Agriculture & Conference Center
Cost: $75 - $125
| | | Meet the Newest CPRC Employees! | |
Central Pines Regional Council is excited to welcome two new members to our team! Casey Feiler joins CPRC as our Clean Transportation Planner, where they will support regional efforts to advance sustainable transportation initiatives and expand access to clean mobility options. Laura Gomez Rodriguez joins the organization as Planner II, bringing her skills and expertise to help support planning projects that strengthen our communities and region. We are thrilled to have Casey and Laura on board and look forward to the knowledge, energy, and perspectives they will bring to our work. Please join us in giving them a warm welcome to the CPRC team!
| | | | | Work Local in the Central Pines Region | |
There are so many amazing career opportunities to serve your community and work for local government in the Central Pines Region. Check out the most recent job postings here!
| | | Upcoming Events & Opportunities | | | | |
