1978: New Hanover County Law Enforcement Center is built

2005: First Baptist Church, with member Bobby Harrelson pledging $1M, purchases building for non-profit organizations and humanitarian missions

2007: Initial renovations are made and non-profit partners begin moving in

2008: Jo Ann Carter Harrelson Center is incorporated as 501(c)3

2009: The Harrelson Center building is dedicated

2015: First phase of Unlock Hope capital campaign is launched, allowing expansion into a newly renovated 4th floor and Help Hub

2017: Unlock Hope Phase 1 campaign goal is met with loan paid well ahead of schedule

2019: The Harrelson Center reaches full capacity; interior demolition of jail cells begins for further campus expansion

2020: Demolition and renovation of Market St courtyard walls and interior reconstruction of jail tower proceeds. South State Bank extends a loan to sustain construction momentum

2021: Vicki Dull Annex opens in August with Plaza on Princess and two floors for non-profit partner suites

From the Lock-Up to Unlocking Hope