The Chatham County Street Outreach Program is a partnership that is funded by Chatham County and federal grant funding awarded to CPRC. Our Street Outreach Coordinator, Melissa Lowell, works with those who are unsheltered or at risk of being unsheltered, connecting them to viable resources and support services in the community.

Our Street Outreach Program recently supported approximately 20 individuals who were exited to better situations, meaning they are no longer living unsheltered. Street outreach looks different from shelter or housing programs—teams often begin engaging with people without collecting formal information, sometimes without even knowing someone’s name at first. Because of this, outreach work isn’t always reflected in traditional performance measures, but its impact is real and meaningful.

In the context of street outreach, a positive exit means that someone has ended contact with the outreach team because they are no longer living on the streets in a place not meant for human habitation. These exits can include moving into permanent housing, entering a shelter or transitional housing program, staying in a respite or residential treatment facility, living with friends or family, or transitioning to care facilities or employer-provided housing.

Each positive exit represents increased stability, safety, and connection to support. While the path forward looks different for every individual, these outcomes reflect the power of consistent engagement, trust-building, and meeting people where they are—core principles of effective street outreach.

March 10-12, 2026

New Bern, NC

As the NC Main Street Conference marks its 25th anniversary—the largest statewide downtown revitalization conference in the country—it celebrates the lasting impact of the Main Street program across North Carolina. From Murphy to Manteo, communities have used the Main Street approach to preserve historic character, strengthen local economies, and turn challenges into opportunities. Stories from small towns and large cities alike highlight how the four-point approach—economic vitality, design, organization, and promotion—has sparked innovation, investment, and vibrant downtowns that serve both residents and visitors.

This year’s conference takes place in New Bern, one of the state’s original Main Street communities and a model of long-term success. Through decades of collaboration between Swiss Bear and the City of New Bern, the historic downtown has become a walkable, bike-friendly destination shaped by preservation, public art, and thriving local businesses. The conference will bring together downtown professionals, local officials, business owners, and volunteers for inspiring speakers, engaging sessions, and behind-the-scenes tours—offering ideas, connections, and momentum for communities at every stage of revitalization.