Kickball, Connections, and Community

Bringing Unity to New Bern, One Kick at a Time.

New Bern, NC — August 31, 2025

The spirit of community, conversation, and a little friendly competition came alive this past weekend at Fort Totten Park during Kickin’ It with the Candidates, a free, family-friendly, nonpartisan event hosted by Young Urban Professionals – ENC (YUP ENC).

Music filled the air, the grill sizzled with delicious bites, and the kickball field became a stage for laughter, connection, and civic engagement. The event brought together residents, local leaders, and candidates for the City of New Bern election in a relaxed, fun, and welcoming environment.

“It was a success!!!!! Thank you, New Bern!” – Jameesha Harris, organizer of the event

Volunteers were at the heart of the day’s success, helping with check-in, food stations, scorekeeping, and overall event flow. Their efforts ensured that every guest felt welcome and that the energy of the event stayed lively from start to finish.

Community leaders were quick to share their excitement about the event:

“Shout out to Y.U.P for organizing the Kickin’ It with the Candidates event. The Kickball game was hilarious! Great job everyone!” – Tangye Middleton, community leader

“Thank you to YUP for organizing and bringing the community together with the Kickin’ It with the Candidates event this evening. It was a fantastic way for candidates and citizens in our community to engage in a relaxing environment. There were lots of laughs, tons of conversation, and one very lively kickball game. Jameesha Harris, a special thank you for having this vision and bringing it to life. When we engage, we learn, we grow as a community, and we build bridges of unity.” – Nadine Buchanan, political candidate

From lively kickball matches to meaningful conversations under the sun, the event proved that civic engagement doesn’t have to be formal or intimidating; it can be fun, inclusive, and energizing.

“I would like to give a big shout to Jameesha Harris. This event was outstanding!!! Kudos to you and YUP for putting this event on. If you didn’t attend this event, you missed a great unity in the community that came together.”

The success of Kickin’ It with the Candidates is a testament to what happens when vision meets action. Thanks to the organizers, volunteers, and every single attendee, New Bern residents experienced a day of connection, conversation, and community fun.

KUWTC is proud to feature this event as part of our Living Local Series, highlighting the people and programs that make Eastern North Carolina a vibrant and united place to live.

For more information on Young Urban Professionals – ENC and their upcoming events, visit www.yup-enc.org.