Partnership for Children introduces new program manager/grant writer
Mike Roberts is the new program manager/grant writer for Columbus County Partnership for Children (CCPC). In this role, he will monitor the progress of the programs and activities of the Partnership as well as seek funding support for the organization.
“We are excited to welcome Mr. Roberts to the CCPC team and to the Smart Start network,” said Dr. Selena Rowell, executive director of the Columbus County Partnership for Children. “The wealth of knowledge and experience that he brings will boost our engagement in the community and foster relationships for collective impact,” she concluded.
Although originally from South Georgia, Roberts has called Columbus County home since 1997.
He has a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Development from the University of Mount Olive and a background in banking and business development, having worked as a vice president for BB&T/Truist until 2023 when he helped launch the technology services company, Provalus, in Whiteville.
Roberts is familiar with the early childhood education system in the county, given that he and his wife are foster parents and have had children in local child care facilities. Their daughter has a degree in early childhood education.
He and his family members have volunteered for various nonprofits like Smart Start and the Boys and Girls Homes of NC, and through Truist’s Lighthouse Project, so he is familiar with the work of CCPC and its community partners.
“I think what really excites me the most about it is the fact that no one organization can do all of these things,” Roberts said. “It truly is a partnership. It’s the opportunity to take my community connections and my organizational development skills and help bring more of these organizations, leaders in the community, and families within the community into a partnership.”
Fostering these connections will be one of his priorities.
“As I settle into this role, one of my priorities is simply getting to know the people and organizations that are already making a difference across Columbus County,” Roberts said. “I want to learn what you’re doing well, understand where there may be unmet needs, and explore ways we can work together to support our youngest children and their families.”
