Themes Identified Through the Snow Camp Community Assessment Process

History

Interviewees cited rich historical roots as a Quaker settlement, and the Snow Camp Historical Site and Outdoor Drama help to keep that history alive. Snow Camp was known as a farming and mill town, but those industries have struggled over recent years.

Sense of Community

Neighbors help each other out in Snow Camp. Long-time residents characterize it as a friendly place, but "we have to get to know you [first]". Many have noticed that there is not as much civic involvement as there used to be.

Church & Religion

Congregations in Snow Camp are known for taking care of their own, and raise money for those in need. Churches and meeting-houses are social centers within the community. There are a few interfaith events, such as Easter and Thanksgiving services.

Education

There was general satisfaction with Sylvan Elementary, the only school physically located within Snow Camp. Some interviewees noticed that parents do not seem to be as involved as they used to be, and many felt that the community places greater emphasis on sports than on academics.

Land Use & Population Changes

There was no question in people's minds that land use is changing. Farming is declining, and some of the land is being divided up into much smaller plots. The population of Snow Camp is also changing. New families, who do not have a family history in Snow Camp, are moving in.

Crime, Drugs, & Alcohol

While some people said that crime, drugs and alcohol are not a particular problem in Snow Camp, others felt that crime was on the rise. Burglary, arson, and marijuana use and production were areas of concern. Alcoholism and drunk driving were also recognized as problematic, and some people linked all of these issues to economic problems.

Community Health

There are health resources active within Snow Camp, including the Snow Camp Fire Department, the Snow Camp Clinic (scheduled to re-open), and home hospice. Many other resources are found outside of the town, mostly in Burlington, including the Alamance County Health Department, Mental Health, and Alamance Regional Community Hospital. Particular assets of community health were identified as neighborly support and cooperation between agencies. Health issues included access to services, budget cuts, and environmental health.

Senior Issues

The community helps take care of seniors and there are services or groups available such as the Golden Agers, ElderCare, Meals on Wheels, and Hospice. The needs of some seniors include transportation, better access to health care, adult daytime care, and close-by retirement facilities.

Recreation

Ballgames provide a great opportunity for social interaction in Snow Camp. Some community members felt the need for a community center. Some felt that for adolescents, there is either school, church, or nothing at all. Likewise, some cited seniors and women having fewer recreational opportunities.

Governing Structures & Leadership

There is no local government, town meeting, or government organization in Snow Camp. The County Commissioners are the voice for Snow Camp. The Fire Department and churches have served as community leaders.

Executive Summary

An Introduction to Snow Camp