2026 New Year Ideas!

Published on January 06, 2026

A strong community starts with residents who know what resources are available and how to access them. As we head into 2026, here are 15 simple ways to connect with county services, from public safety updates and health resources to parks, libraries, and customer service tools, so you can get support when you need it and enjoy what our community offers.

1. Save Key Contacts Now: County’s main office number, non-emergency number, public works after-hours number, locations of all county offices can be found under “Contact and Locate us”.
2. Get Weather Ready! Ensure you bookmark our weather resource page. Sign up for Sampson County Alert to be notified of emergency situations in Sampson County.
3. Take a Walk Through Nature. Take time to explore a local park and check out our new Pondberry Bay Trail.
4. Get Your Library Card. Explore social connections at your local library, where you can enjoy storytime, arts and crafts and make new friends. Discover events at your local library. Get your library card today and explore e-books/audiobooks, and online learning!
5. Introduce Your Child to 4-H. Sampson County 4-H is open to youth ages 5-18 and offers various programs and events for various interests. For information about Sampson County 4-H, please visit their home page.
6. Sign Your Child Up for a County Sports Program in 2026 and join the fun! Youth leagues and recreation programs help kids build skills, stay active, and make new friends in a positive team environment. Check the county Parks & Recreation schedule for registration dates, age groups, and seasonal offerings.
7. Adopt a Shelter Pet. Make 2026 the year you welcome a new best friend! Consider adopting a pet from Sampson County Animal Shelter. You will be giving a deserving animal a second chance while gaining a loyal companion who brings joy! Visit the animal shelter or check out the adopt a pet to meet your match!
8. Learn What the Health Department Offers: Vaccines, screenings, WIC, family planning, environmental health and more!
9. Know Where to Go for Help Fast! Bookmark our Social Services contacts, and other service information. Learn more about how to become a foster parent!
10. Improve Your County Navigation! Find your commissioner district using our GIS website, meeting schedule, watch meeting livestream videos to be in the know!
11. Try Sampson County Public Transportation. Our County Public Transportation Department provides transit services for ALL residents in Sampson County. Whether you are headed to work, school, medical appointments, shopping, or other errands, public transportation can help you. Schedule a ride and more information here.
12. Support Local Farmers and Makers Make it a goal in 2026 to shop closer to home by visiting local farmers markets, farm stands, and small businesses featuring handmade goods. Buying locally helps keep dollars in the community, supports family farms, and often means fresher food and one-of-a-kind products you can’t find elsewhere. Look for seasonal markets and vendor events throughout the county and consider trying one new local vendor each month.
13. Start a Small Business! Turn your idea into a small business right here in Sampson County in 2026. From choosing a business name and registering your company to understanding permits and local requirements, check out the resources here.
14. Stay Informed. Sampson County has many programs, services and events. Subscribe to our various communications channels. Sign up for our monthly newsletter and follow our social media platforms.
15. Start a New Job Start 2026 with a fresh opportunity! Consider a career with Sampson County. County jobs offer a chance to serve your community while building a stable career with competitive benefits and room to grow. Explore current openings on the county website and apply to the position that fits your skills and goals.