This outdoor stage, which will serve as a hub for concerts, performances, and public events, is the culmination of months of hard work and vision from Natalie, who completed the project as part of her Eagle Scout requirements. From planning and fundraising to coordinating volunteers and construction, Natalie led the entire initiative, demonstrating remarkable leadership, perseverance, and community spirit.
During the ceremony, Mayor Casey Hancock commended Natalie’s exceptional dedication: “I want to thank Natalie for this gift to our community. It's a great example of why I love citizen-led projects so much. While most people come to me with a problem or idea and tell me what I need to do about it, Natalie asked for a meeting and told us what she wanted to do and shared her plan to do it. Her initiative and determination show what's possible when residents don't just dream about improving their community, but personally commit to making things happen. So, thank you again, Natalie, for dreaming of a better Hartsville and for putting in the work to make it so. I look forward to seeing what you do next as you head off to college. I know you will make Hartsville proud.”
The Hartsville Community Outdoor Stage not only enhances the city’s downtown gathering space but also stands as a lasting testament to the power of civic engagement and youth leadership. City officials, local families, Scouts, and community members came together to celebrate this milestone and honor the hard work that made it possible.