2025 was an incredible first year for Piedmont Promise! As we wrap up our launch year, we’re excited to share what we accomplished together and what we’re gearing up for in 2026.  

2025 Highlights: 

• Official Launch of Piedmont Promise: This year, we officially launched Piedmont Promise with a clear mission: to advance bipartisan policies that protect natural resources, promote sustainable growth, and preserve quality of life for the people of North Carolina’s Piedmont. This mission unites a growing alliance of 10 partner organizations and over 50,000 supporters from across the region. 

• First Lobby Days: We hosted our first in-person and digital lobby days in June, bringing our partners together to meet directly with legislators about our shared priorities and to lay the groundwork for moving legislation forward. We were inspired by the success of these lobby days and the power of our collective voice.  

• Four Bills Passed the NC House Unanimously: All four bills we supported in our first year passed the NC House of Representatives unanimously. This includes House Bill 369, The Parking Reform and Modernization Act, which we helped draft and guide through the legislative process. These wins demonstrate the potential of bipartisan conservation legislation and the impact of a united voice for conservation in NC’s Piedmont. 

• Expanded Our Team: In August, we welcomed Alexis to the Piedmont Promise team as the Southern Piedmont Regional Organizer. As a UNC Charlotte graduate with a degree in public health and a passion for education, Alexis brings expertise and energy to strengthening connections with partners and communities across the Piedmont.  

• Kickoff Event at Patagonia Charlotte: We hosted our first community event at Patagonia Charlotte to celebrate Piedmont Promise’s first year. It was inspiring to connect with both new and familiar faces, share our mission, and build momentum for the work ahead. 

Looking Ahead to 2026: 

• Advance Legislation During Short Session: On April 21, the NC legislators will convene in Raleigh for the 2026 short session. During this session, we’ll work with partners and supporters to move the bills we championed in the 2025 long session through the Senate. 

• Draft 2027 Legislation and Engage Candidates: In 2026, we’ll be drafting legislation for 2027 to support small farms, promote sustainable growth and updated infrastructure, and raise consumer awareness about PFAS. With the 2026 election season underway, we’re working with partners and supporters to make sure these priorities are top of mind for candidates and future elected officials. 

• Expand Partnerships and Community Outreach: We’re excited to continue growing our network of partners and strengthening our community of advocates across the Piedmont in 2026. 

We’re grateful to our partners and supporters who have made the work of protecting the people, communities, and shared resources of NC’s Piedmont possible this year. We look forward to continuing this work together in 2026 and beyond.