Columbus County Partnership for Children Names Mike Roberts as New Program Manager and Grant Writer

WHITEVILLE, NC — The Columbus County Partnership for Children (CCPC) has announced the appointment of Mike Roberts as the organization’s new Program Manager and Grant Writer.

In his new position, Roberts will oversee and monitor the progress of CCPC’s community programs and activities while actively pursuing grant opportunities and external funding support to sustain and expand the organization’s mission across Columbus County.

“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.”

Though originally a native of South Georgia, Roberts has been a resident of Columbus County since 1997. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Development from the University of Mount Olive and brings an extensive background in business development and executive leadership. He previously served as a Vice President for BB&T/Truist until 2023, when he assisted in launching the Provalus technology services facility in Whiteville.

In addition to his professional background, Roberts brings personal experience with local early childhood education systems. He and his wife serve as foster parents and have had children enrolled in local child care facilities, while their daughter holds a degree in early childhood education.

Over the years, Roberts and his family have volunteered with several local community organizations, including Smart Start, the Boys and Girls Homes of North Carolina, and Truist’s community-focused Lighthouse Project.

“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.”

As he transitions into his new leadership role at CCPC, Roberts emphasized that strengthening community relationships and identifying local family needs will be his top 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 added. “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.”

The Columbus County Partnership for Children, located at 109 W. Main Street in Whiteville, serves as a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the health, education, and well-being of young children and families across the county through the Smart Start network.