Cary’s brand continues to shine thanks to media efforts in major regional publications, including “Southern Living” and “Business North Carolina,” further elevating the Town’s profile. In addition, Cary has won a prestigious national sports award (stay tuned for a big reveal in November), and the food waste recycling drop-off program has been nominated for the Research Triangle Cleantech Cluster’s annual Innovation Awards, which showcase leadership in environmental technology. National outlets, including “Newsweek,” “Country Living,” and “Yahoo Finance,” featured Cary in several accolades lists touting high quality of life and amenities. 

On social, Cary’s Instagram account hit 10,000 followers. Metrics on social media reflect an increasing engagement rate, indicating a more sustainable, active, and loyal audience. This suggests that efforts to attract the right audience are paying off, providing a healthier base for long-term brand growth. On the web, international traffic and engagement saw impressive numbers as well. This indicates a broader audience is seeking out Cary due to internationally focused marketing efforts.

In July, 24 Cary Teen Council members formed the inaugural cohort of the Cary Public Service Academy, a pilot program inspired by Cary 101. This weeklong initiative aimed to provide these high school students with a behind-the-scenes view of local government operations and inspire further civic engagement. The curriculum included participating in hands-on activities and facility tours, attending a Council meeting, volunteering with Dorcas Ministries, and engaging in a career panel discussion with Cary staff. Participant parents raved about their children’s experiences, with one noting that “we, as parents, learned a lot about our town from [our daughter] sharing her experiences every evening,” and another sharing: “It will be valuable experience when [our son] makes career decisions.”