Fayetteville Next is reaching out to young adults with a chance to connect with each other and become involved in the community.
The city advisory commission, which targets residents ages 18 to 39, has launched a rebranding campaign to raise awareness about its mission.
The commission held a kickoff Thursday evening at the newly opened Main Event entertainment center at Cross Creek Mall. The complex features an arcade, bowling, laser tag, and a restaurant and bar. It is the first Main Event location in North Carolina.
“It’s really just about awareness, making sure that the people of Fayetteville know that we’re here and that we’re doing things to hopefully improve their lives, and them just getting to meet people,” said Chris Pryer, a commission member who has been involved since 2022.
Fayetteville Next was founded as the Millennial Advisory Commission in 2018. The name was changed earlier this year to better reflect the ages it serves.
According to the United States Census Bureau, about 37% of Fayetteville’s population is between ages 20 and 39, the biggest percentage of any age group in the city.
“This is something to do, something to get you out of the house, something that is local … something that is for Fayetteville’s greatest population right now,” said Camille Little, also a commission member.
On Thursday, members and their guests enjoyed pizza, played new arcade games, bowled and networked with other people in their age group.
“It’s a good way to introduce this new business into the community (and) also, kind of getting to network amongst your City Council,” said Emaly Bostaph, who was participating in a Next gathering for the first time.
Bostaph, who has lived in Fayetteville since 2010, said she is really happy to see how much the commission has grown over the past few years.
City Council member Mario Benevante, a former chairman and founding member of Fayetteville Next, also attended the kickoff. He emphasized the importance of advocating for this age group and listening to people’s needs.
“We have a board for seniors; we have a board for historic (resources); we have a board for all kinds of stuff. Why don’t we have one for folks under 40?” said Benavente.
Over the past six years, Next’s board has grown from 13 to 30 members.
“It’s not about having an exclusive club of people. It’s about activating as many people as we can,” Benavente said.
For more information on Fayetteville Next, visit its Instagram account or Facebook page.
Government accountability reporter Char Morrison can be reached at cmorrison@cityviewnc.com.
