NC Eckerd Leadership Interviewed on Talk Show

Eckerd was recently interviewed on the “Live in the Mountains” segment on Mountain Television Network that airs in 21 counties across North Carolina. In a talk show format, Eckerd leadership discussed the different programs in North Carolina along with the history of Eckerd while also promoting upcoming fundraisers.

Brittany Johnson, host of the noon time television show “MNT Live in the Mountains”, interviewed Eckerd North Carolina leaders Cindi Blackburn, Jennifer Stout and Anthony Jones. Anthony Jones, Operations Director of Eckerd North Carolina, spoke about Eckerd’s history in North Carolina including how philanthropists Jack and Ruth Eckerd opened the first residential youth program in 1977 and shared how their passion for helping children continues to play a part in the agency’s mission today..

Jennifer Stout, who directs the community intervention program talked about Eckerd’s teen parenting classes and other prevention programs. Family preservation services are also offered to parents identified by child welfare. The program is designed to help strengthen family functioning and avoid placement into foster care.

“To have a second chance, to remain together… that speaks to the heart of what Eckerd does,” said Jennifer. Even though Jennifer works out of the Asheville, NC office she explained that Eckerd helps families in 9 counties across the state.

The director of Eckerd’s Boomer residential campus, Cindi Blackburn, talked about the non-profit’s partnership with the North Carolina Department of Public Safety. Eckerd runs multiple residential programs for troubled youth, but the Boomer campus in particular works with boys, ages 13-17, who are already involved in the delinquency system. Cindi talked about volunteer opportunities at the residential facility and other programs. Interested individuals can find additional information on Eckerd.org. Finally, the staff members revealed that a ribbon cutting ceremony that will take place on October 8, 2014 for the new Eckerd post-adoption program in Charlotte, NC which will serve adoptive parents and families in several counties within Region 4.