Introducing Cherokee County Community Connections: Growing a Stronger Community, One Project at a Time

Written By Miriam Foster

At Cherokee County Community Connections, we believe that real change starts at the community level—through hands-on projects, educational outreach, and collaboration that brings people together. As the nonprofit arm of the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce, our mission focuses on strengthening Cherokee County through education, inclusion, and community development.

While the Chamber supports local business growth, Community Connections serves the broader needs of the people—fostering wellness, equity, and opportunity for residents of all ages.


What We’ve Accomplished So Far

Even though we’re still a young nonprofit, we’ve already been making a meaningful impact. Some of our early wins include:

  • Installing an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) in a public community space

  • Funding and installing security cameras to help keep our public areas safer

  • Publishing a locally-themed Kids’ Activity Book, filled with fun and educational content about Cherokee County—giving children a chance to explore their community, and donors a meaningful way to see their impact

Little Blooms: A Park Restoration Initiative

Our signature project, Little Blooms, is all about restoring and enhancing local parks to better serve children, families, and community members of all abilities.

We recently celebrated a major milestone with the groundbreaking at Konehete Park for our brand-new Healthbeat outdoor workout equipment, providing a free, accessible fitness option for all ages right in the heart of Murphy. While construction is underway, the official ribbon cutting won’t take place until September—and we look forward to celebrating this exciting addition with the community. We’re incredibly grateful to Erlanger Western Carolina Hospital and the Cherokee County Tourism Development Authority (TDA) for providing the critical funding to make this phase of the project possible. Their partnership is helping us build a healthier, more connected future for Cherokee County.


Looking ahead, the Little Blooms initiative will also include:

  • An inclusive playground with features like the OmniSpin® Spinner—a wheelchair-accessible, rotating play element that allows kids of all abilities to spin, smile, and play together.

  • A musical play area, complete with outdoor xylophones, drums, and other interactive musical equipment for joyful, creative play.

  • A splash pad, giving local children a fun and safe place to cool off during the hot summer months.


Scout the Squirrel & Our Kids’ Activity Book

Meet Scout, our curious and clever gray squirrel mascot! Scout guides children through the pages of our Kids’ Activity Book, packed with games, wildlife facts, coloring pages, and local history. It’s a great resource for classrooms, families, and community programs—and also serves as a heartfelt thank-you to donors who support our mission.


Join Us at the Tomato Festival!

We’ll be volunteering at the Cherokee Food Alliance Tomato Festival—a fun, family-friendly event open to the public on Saturday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Come meet our team, pick up an activity book, and learn more about how we’re growing community connections one project at a time.

Visit our Events Page to learn more about this and other upcoming opportunities!


Help Us Grow

Your donation directly supports community improvement, youth education, and inclusive play spaces in Cherokee County. From revitalizing parks to creating engaging educational tools, your support makes a lasting difference.

Donate today or request your copy of the Kids’ Activity Book—and help us build a community where everyone can learn, play, and thrive.

Miriam Foster