Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and Carolina Ascent Football Club: A Winning Partnership for Welcoming Week
September 3, 2025
This blog post was written by Lonna Vines, branch manager at the Myers Park branch of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.
Charlotte, NC proudly holds the Certified Welcoming designation from Welcoming America, a recognition awarded to cities and counties that demonstrate a strong commitment to welcoming and immigrant inclusion. As of 2025, only 28 cities and counties across the U.S. have earned this honor.
Charlotte Mecklenburg Library recognizes the vital role that newcomers play in enriching our community, and we work year-round to help new residents -- with extra emphasis on international newcomers -- get connected, stay engaged, and feel at home in our city.
That’s why we are thrilled to announce a brand new partnership with the Carolina Ascent Football Club, Charlotte’s newest professional sports team. The Ascent is a women’s soccer team already making an impact on and off the field. What better organization to partner with in celebration of Welcoming Week than a team made up of athletes who know what it means to move to a new city and build a community.
Recently, library staff had the opportunity to visit a team practice and chat with a few of the players about their experiences moving to Charlotte.
Meet Taylor Porter: Newcomer, Athlete, and Book Lover
One of those players was Taylor Porter, who joined Carolina Ascent FC and moved to Charlotte just over a year ago. Originally from sunny San Diego, Taylor knows firsthand what it’s like to make a big move and start fresh in a new city.
When asked about her transition to Charlotte, Taylor smiled:
“I think the thing that surprised me most was just how welcoming people are here. It’s not easy moving across the country, leaving behind friends and family, but Charlotte has a way of making you feel at home. My teammates have been incredible, but I’ve also met people just by exploring the city.”
Taylor admits she misses San Diego’s beaches, but she’s quickly found her own Charlotte favorites.
“I love exploring all the local coffee shops. Each one has such a different vibe, and it’s become my way of getting to know the city. Plus, as a reader, it’s the perfect place to relax with a good book.”
Her most recent read? Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry.
Taylor’s story highlights exactly why this partnership is so special—newcomers bring their passions, talents, and fresh perspectives, and in turn, they find belonging and community in Charlotte.
Celebrate Welcoming Week with Us
Welcoming Week 2025 will be held September 12–21, and the library has an exciting lineup of events planned. In addition to programs across our branches, we’re bringing back our popular Welcoming Challenge, running from September 1–30.
Here’s how it works:
- Pick up a challenge sheet at your nearest Charlotte Mecklenburg Library branch.
- Complete three activities from the sheet.
- Return your completed sheet to the branch to earn prizes!
Prizes include (while supplies last):
- Sign-up Prize: A WelcomeCLT Button
- Completion Prize: A WelcomeCLT Insulated Tote Bag + a free Carolina Ascent FC ticket
- Grand Prize: An internationally themed basket with books, snacks, merchandise, and a Carolina Ascent hospitality package for a family of four to enjoy food and fun at a match
Library Night with Carolina Ascent
Mark your calendars: Carolina Ascent FC is hosting a special “Library Night” on Wednesday, September 24 at 7:00pm at American Legion Memorial Stadium. All you need to join the fun is your WelcomeCLT Challenge sheet. Pick one up at your local library branch, complete your activities, and claim your free ticket!
Together, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and Carolina Ascent are celebrating what makes our city so special: a community where everyone, whether brand new or lifelong resident, belongs. Visit WelcomeCLT.org to learn more.
