One of the area’s most active and inspirational non-profit groups, the Winston-Salem Ambassadors was founded in December 2016, with a clear mission of binding the past, present, and future, to place – and keep – Winston-Salem in the spotlight it deserves, both locally, regionally, and nationally.
This gathering of determined, spirited, and caring individuals believes that continuing to strive for a strong economy and a thriving community of residents will keep the city at its peak. Members of the Ambassadors are savvy and intentional, and they can’t wait to share with you why their city is so amazing!
“Our mission is to increase awareness of the greatness of Winston-Salem in two ways,” says Mackenzie Cates-Allen, the group’s founder, president, and chief ambassador, who knows that all involved in the organization have experienced firsthand the love of the city’s residents, and the compassion and enlightenment the twin city has to offer all of its residents and neighbors. The Ambassadors work tirelessly to increase awareness of Winston-Salem’s strengths to those who already live and work here, and to rally excitement and interest for those who aren’t as familiar with the area. Through local events and social media, the Ambassadors regularly spotlight area entrepreneurs, local musical and creative talent, and “everyday heroes” who contribute to the city’s greatness day in and day out.
“The two most important things we promote to all are Winston-Salem being both welcoming and inclusive,” says Mackenzie. “We truly believe that our city has something for everyone, and we want to help every resident get the most out of their experience in Winston-Salem and the surrounding area.”
Through a series of quarterly “workshops” this energetic group relishes the opportunity to sit down and take part in a wide variety of discussions with an even wider participant base. “We cover what’s good about the city, what areas need work, and potential pathways for the city’s future,” explains Mackenzie. (Also look for news about their family friendly music series called Second Sundays on Fourth!)
Heading into a strong second year of work, the group realizes there is much history in Winston-Salem to celebrate, but also much room for growth and many larger goals to accomplish. Mackenzie leads the Ambassadors, aided and inspired by a wonderful board of advisors who are totally dedicated to the future of Winston-Salem. That board includes its chair, Anne Donovan, vice chair, Amanda Hoey, treasurer, Kristina Welch, and secretary, Christy Spencer.
One of the group’s ongoing campaigns is to keep local college graduates interested in remaining in the area, while also attracting new businesses and as many new employers as possible, and still retain our current workforce and population. They work to encourage regular visitors to the Triad to take advantage of the city’s booming arts scene and colorful downtown district, and they hope to inspire other non-profit groups to join in collaborating their efforts, and promote Winston-Salem, not just locally, but also on a regional and national scale. Mackenzie and her team feel it’s a unique way of “giving back” to their community in a way that will allow the future version of Winston-Salem to flourish!
To learn more about this growing non-profit group or become involved in their mission, visit wsambassadors.org, reach them at 336-794-6050, or visit their office at 301 N. Main Street, 24thFloor, in Winston-Salem. Follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
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Starting in July 2017 and running through December 2018, the Winston-Salem Ambassadors will seek to raise $175,000 through their inaugural FUNdraising Campaign. As a 501(c)3 tax exempt organization, this dedicated group is completely donation-driven, as they strive to maintain their goal of Shaping Community Through Relationships!
Visit wsambassadors.org/giving/ today to donate—using the Tax ID #81-4170578—and support this innovative group of inspired Winston-Salem residents looking to make the Twin City’s future even brighter.
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Second Sundays on Fourth
There’s nothing better than free family fun, especially when it includes lively music from some of the most creative artists, events just for kids, and Winston-Salem residents gathering together to celebrate their city being a true arts hub!
To be held on 4th Street between Cherry and Marshall, plans for the 2018 Second Sundays on Fourth call for free music concerts on May 13th, June 10th, September 9th, and October 14th, carrying on the rich tradition of music culture in our community. May is just around the corner, and gearing up for that first event of the season is The Threadbare Trio and the Luxuriant Sedans—with more wonderful musicians to be named for the remaining concerts. It’s also the perfect excuse to see a film at the Aperture Cinema, then venture outside when the street festivities begin!
Mackenzie Cates-Allen, founder and president of the Winston-Salem Ambassadors, says the group is honored to be heading up Second Sundays on Fourth, which proudly supports local businesses and other non-profits, while providing outstanding entertainment families can enjoy together to close out their weekends.
Sponsorships are key to this popular event’s success, and partnering with the Winston-Salem Ambassadors will also provide your organization with the following opportunities:
- Being instrumental in attracting and encouraging local artists to make the Winston-Salem area their permanent home;
- Contributing to the goal of creating an always evolving and thriving downtown district;
- Spotlighting Winston-Salem as a must-visit destination for families and tourists.
To join the excitement of Second Sundays on Fourth, visit them online at sso4.com for sponsorship information, or contact the Winston-Salem Ambassadors via wsambassadors.com or by calling 336-794-6050.
