Joy, Inclusion, and Support: A Day at the Mills and Local Resources for Families

Each fall, the historic Rocky Mount Mills transforms into a playground of laughter, creativity, and connection for A Day at the Mills — a free, sensory-friendly celebration designed for children of all abilities and their families. Presented by Barnhill, this special morning has become a cherished tradition that unites the Twin Counties community around one simple idea: that play should be accessible to everyone.

This year’s event, held on the scenic Mills campus, features a lineup of family favorites — arts and crafts, interactive play stations, drone demonstrations, a Touch-a-Truck zone, and the beloved costume parade led by Wool E. Bull. While the festivities are lively, the environment remains intentionally calm and inclusive, with sensory-friendly considerations woven into every part of the day. It’s a morning that invites every child to explore, express, and simply belong.

A Tradition Rooted in Inclusion

A Day at the Mills was created to give families a place where children with sensory sensitivities or developmental differences could fully participate in a community event — without overstimulation or barriers. Over the years, it has grown into something larger: a day that celebrates the beauty of diverse experiences and the power of community support. Parents often describe it as a rare opportunity to enjoy public festivities without worry, surrounded by understanding volunteers and peers.

While Barnhill is best known as one of North Carolina’s leading contracting firms, its roots in community building run just as deep as its construction projects. Through sponsorships like A Day at the Mills, Barnhill helps ensure that events designed around accessibility and inclusion remain free and welcoming to everyone.

The company’s philanthropic arm, the Barnhill Family Foundation, extends this spirit of service throughout the state — supporting programs for families, veterans, and education. Their partnership with Rocky Mount Mills reflects a shared belief that thriving communities are built not only with concrete and steel, but with compassion, connection, and care.

Beyond the crafts, parades, and smiles, A Day at the Mills represents a shift in what community events can be — spaces where every family feels seen, where children of all abilities can take part, and where joy is the unifying language. It’s a day that reminds us that inclusion isn’t an afterthought; it’s what makes community whole.

Local Resources Directory for Families in Edgecombe County

Children’s Developmental Services Agency (CDSA) – Rocky Mount

• Services: Early intervention for children birth to age 3 with developmental delays or disabilities.

• Contact: Cheryl Yarrell, Director 📍 141 Storage Drive, Rocky Mount, NC 27804 📞 (252) 316-4800 📧 cheryl.yarrell@dhhs.nc.gov 🌐 ncdhhs.gov

Edgecombe County Health Department – Child Health Services

• Services: Well-child care, immunizations, developmental screenings, genetic services, and parental education.

• Contact: 📍 301 S. Fairview Road, Tarboro, NC 27886 📞 (252) 641-7511 🌐 edgecombecountync.gov

ShineLight – Autism Support Services

• Services: Residential support, community living, supported employment, social skills training, and community outreach for individuals with autism.

• Contact: 📍 203 Rowan Street, Fayetteville, NC 28301 📞 (910) 323-1335 📧 info@shine-light.org 🌐 shine-light.org

Tarboro Pediatric Psychology

• Services: Psychological assessments and therapy for children and adolescents, including ADHD, autism, anxiety, and trauma-related issues.

• Contact: 📍 511 Saint Andrew Street, Tarboro, NC 27886 📞 (252) 618-5688 🌐 tarboropediatricpsychology.com

Autism Therapists in Edgecombe County

• Services: Individual therapy for children with autism, ADHD, and related concerns.

• Contact: 📍 Various locations in Edgecombe County 🌐 Psychology Today Directory

Down East Partnership for Children (DEPC)

• Services: Early childhood education, child care referrals, developmental screenings, and family support services.

• Contact: 📍 1000 Western Blvd, Rocky Mount, NC 27804 📞 (252) 985-4300 🌐 depc.org

Family Support Network of North Carolina (FSNNC)

• Services: Peer support, resource information, and training for families of children with disabilities, chronic illness, or special healthcare needs.

• Contact: 📍 Statewide services with local affiliates 🌐 fsnnc.org

Edgecombe County Public Schools – Family Resource Center

• Services: Parent education, family engagement programs, and support for navigating school services.

• Contact: 📍 2311 North Main Street, Tarboro, NC 27886 📞 (252) 641-2600 🌐 ecps.us

  
  

Do you know of another resource we can add to the list? Please email us at Contact@twincounymedia.com  and let us know!