Kinston Named Finalist for the 2025 All-America City Award
We’re proud to share some exciting news: Kinston has been named a finalist for the 2025 All-America City Award! Presented annually by the National Civic League, the All-America City Award recognizes communities that exemplify inclusive civic engagement, innovative problem-solving, and collaborative leadership. This year’s theme—“Strengthening Environmental Sustainability through Inclusive Community Engagement”—reflects values that are deeply woven into the work we do every day.
Kinston was selected as one of just 20 finalists across the country for our commitment to community-led development, climate resilience, and neighborhood revitalization. Our application was led by Chris Suggs, Kinston City Councilman and Executive Director of Kinston Teens, and highlights the powerful partnerships between local government, grassroots organizations, and residents to make Kinston a more equitable and vibrant place for all.
As part of the application, we shared three core initiatives that demonstrate how Kinston is leading the way:
The Emma Webb Park Master Plan, a collaborative effort to reimagine one of our city’s oldest parks through flood-resilient design and inclusive community engagement.
The East Kinston Neighborhood Hub and Equitable Development Plan, which is transforming underinvested blocks into a community campus anchored by youth leadership, food access, beautification, and workforce initiatives.
The Downtown Kinston Mural Program, which has used art and storytelling to revitalize our historic downtown and celebrate our community’s rich Black cultural heritage.
We believe this recognition is not just a moment of pride—it’s a reminder of what’s possible when young people, neighbors, and city leaders work together with a shared vision.
“Our city is being honored because of the leadership of our people—our youth, our elders, and the many passionate residents who have chosen to invest in Kinston’s future,” said Chris Suggs. “The East Kinston Neighborhood Hub is a shining example of what’s possible when we center equity, care, and creativity in our work.” The All-America City Award finalists will present their work this June in Denver, Colorado, and ten winners will be selected. We are hopeful that Kinston will be one of them!
We’ll be sharing more updates as the competition approaches, but in the meantime, we invite you to celebrate this incredible moment with us. Whether you’ve attended a Sunday Dinner, planted flowers with our team, joined a youth-led neighborhood clean-up, or simply stopped by to check out the Hub—you are a part of this story.
Let’s keep building. Let’s keep believing. Let’s keep taking care of us. 💚