Little Washington goes a long way for young professionals

When you think of where young professionals are flocking to in North Carolina, you may think of larger cities like Charlotte and Raleigh. However, "Little" Washington has much to offer this demographic, as well.

With an estimated population of just under 10,000 and a literal Main Street running through the city center, young professionals looking to start their careers might write off Washington as too small or not urban enough to be a starting point for their careers or families. But they'd be wrong.

Talking to lifelong residents and transplants alike paints a picture of a welcoming city with a community that embraces those that take a chance on it.

"I have no business being here," said Chris Whitehead, an employee at First Bank. "I have no ties to this area whatsoever. I went to East Carolina University, stayed in Greenville and worked for a community bank there."

So, what drew Whitehead to Washington? It's charm and laid-back way of life.

Many of Whitehead's peers took opportunities in Raleigh and Charlotte, which are both growing at tremendous rates and attracting more young professionals all the time. However, Chris took the time to evaluate what he wanted and surprised his managers in the process by choosing Washington.

"Actually, the first bank I worked for offered me a position to relocate to Raleigh. I've been to Raleigh, I knew about it. For some reason, it didn't strike me. I don't know why," said Whitehead. "Yeah, the opportunity was there; but for some reason, I just wanted that small town feel of wanting to know everybody."

Washington provides this idyllic charm in abundance. Not only do residents know one another, they also support one another by becoming loyal patrons of the local businesses in town.

Main Street is lined with locally owned and operated stores and restaurants, and every dollar spent there is one that's funneled back into the community, instead of a corporate owner.

"When I spend money, I know I'm supporting a family that's here," said Whitehead. "I think that's just the coolest thing."

That sense of community brings both businesses and customers closer together — and also helps young professionals get their start.

WISE, or Women in Support of Excellence, is a county-wide initiative that aims to identify and address issues that are of importance to women on both a personal and professional level. The program also nurtures an environment in which women can discuss these issues and ultimately lead to a greater sense of empowerment.

"It started because there are many women in our county that want to continue developing as leaders, as well as support future women leaders," said Catherine Glover, executive director of the Washington-Beaufort County Chamber of Commerce. "We have a lot of great young professionals currently living in our area and also relocating to Beaufort County. A lot of them are entrepreneurs who want to be involved and get to know others in the community — I was a young professional when I started my job as Executive Director of the Washington-Beaufort County Chamber of Commerce, so I know how important it is to network and surround yourself with people that want growth for our area and to get to know better."

The Chamber assists start-up businesses as well as established businesses on a daily basis, and there are several committees for young professionals to serve on and network with other professionals in the area.

WISE regularly hosts events and speakers, partnering with Harbor District Market in Downtown Washington to do so. In doing so, they encourage young professionals — especially women — to develop into future leaders.

Outside of WISE, local business owners are also doing their part to create a rich entrepreneurial environment. Born and raised Washington resident Amy Gerard, the proud owner of local fitness center Fitness Unlimited, strives to create a welcoming environment that branches out from her business and touches everyone in town.

"The business here is making new people feel comfortable and part of the family," she said. "If they feel that way here, hopefully it trickles into the community. It gives them a way to communicate with other people. I feel like it's very inclusive. That's our goal here."

In his position as director of the Beaufort County Economic Development Commission, Martyn Johnson has intimate experience in making the community inclusive and approachable. His daily activities include monitoring the local economy and providing assistance to those seeking data, advice and resources to create, retain or expand a business or are seeking employees or employment.

In doing so, he works closely with young professionals looking to get started in the area.

"I believe there will be some of the greatest opportunities for young people in Beaufort County over the next ten years. The reason being is that up to 50% of our workforce and business owners will be reaching retirement age, which creates numerous opportunities for young people to step into these jobs or to create or purchase businesses," said Johnson. "Also under these circumstances, there are great opportunities for young individuals to start careers with HVAC, welding, electric, boat building, restaurants and other businesses, then once they have the experience, they can create their own businesses spin-off."

The city and county offer a number of initiatives to help these young professionals get their foot in the door, including specialized education through the local colleges and school district — and free tuition at Beaufort County Community College through 2023 — as well as one-on-one mentorship through the Beaufort County Business Center. Additionally, Johnson recommends that young entrepreneurs engage with the Economic Development Partnership of NC, which provides free one-on-one guidance to entrepreneurs and startups on the licensing and permitting requirements of starting a small business in the state.

The Washington Beaufort County Chamber of Commerce (WBCCC) Young Professionals/Executives Chapter also specifically provides young individuals with opportunities to develop professionally, cultivate relationships and socialize in the Washington community.

Washington's credibility as a destination for professionals goes beyond just the people and resources, however; there are benefits to living in a small town that just don't exist in cities with greater populations.

A better commute is a given – there's less traffic because there's less people, so you can hop in your car and be where you need to be in 10 minutes instead of 30. The County and communities are also focused on expanding broadband infrastructure within the county to increase the possibilities for remote working, medicine, communication and education.

Additionally, less competition for housing and more real estate options for younger residents means a more favorable cost of living.

"My nieces live in Raleigh and [the price difference] is amazing to them," said Gerard. "It's not nearly as expensive. Here you can get a house for rent for $800."

There's also plenty to do around town. Located right on the water, Washington has developed an active outdoor community that's attractive for young people looking to explore outdoors.

"There are two nice golf courses. There's boating, biking, kayaking and canoeing. My staff is 23 to 25 and they love being here because of the activities," Gerard said. "You can be out on the waterfront and enjoy your friends and fellowship. There's lots of arts and crafts, churches, painting, farmers markets."

"Playing is a large part of the public and private initiatives around Washington that benefit young entrepreneurs. The downtown of most of the communities in Beaufort County, particularly Belhaven and Washington, have numerous eating, drinking and entertainment opportunities, including the recent addition of the Mulberry House Brewery," said Johnson. "The county also offers numerous recreation infrastructures at which to play in the form of boating, fishing, skiing and paddleboarding on the Pamlico River, proximity to coastal beaches, state parks, kayak, canoe and boat rentals, community baseball and soccer fields, golf courses, walking trails, nature trails, hunting, bird watching, tennis, pickleball, dance studios, go-kart racing and theater groups centered around the Historic Turnage Theatre."

With so many activities and opportunities available, residents get to know one another in ways that just aren't possible in bigger cities.

"I know the mayor, the police chief, the fire chief," said Whitehead. "I'm involved in a lot of stuff from the Boys and Girls Club to the local Rotary Club to the United Way."

For the people out there who are looking for a change of pace, plenty to do, and quiet and serene surroundings, Washington could be the perfect fit.

"I would say come for a weekend," said Whitehead. "Come on a Friday afternoon, just walk down Main Street and see everything; I think it's just a nice place to live."

Added Glover: "Beaufort County is a welcoming place, and it is continuing to transform. We have a vibrant downtown, good job opportunities and nature all around. I hear from some of our young professionals it is the perfect place to be — and I would agree."