Faces of Elkin: Cameron Beals

Some people grow up in a place and spend their whole lives noticing its rhythm. Cameron Beals is one of those people. For her, Elkin is not just where she lives, it is where connection shows up every day in quiet, meaningful ways.

Showing Up for Each Other

One of the things Cameron loves most about Elkin is how people show up. Downtown festivals, concerts at the Reeves Theater, community fundraisers. No matter the event, she is always surrounded by familiar faces.

What stands out to her most, though, are the simple traditions. Running into neighbors on the trails. Catching up with someone downtown. Bumping into old friends after years apart. These moments happen often, yet never lose their sense of comfort or surprise.

“There’s something comforting about how these moments happen almost daily and yet still feel special,” Cameron shared.

A Pace That Makes Room for Life

To Cameron, Elkin strikes a rare balance. It is close to nature and the mountains, while still offering lively places to gather. She loves how easy it is to move through her day, whether that means crossing town in ten minutes, heading out for a walk on the trails, or meeting family for a meal.

The slower pace creates space to be present, even if that presence is still a work in progress.

“It allows space to connect and be present,” she said. “Even if I’m still not very good at it.”

When It Matters Most

Cameron has seen Elkin come together time and time again. In moments of hardship, people step in without hesitation. In moments of celebration, the whole town seems to share the joy.

That shared sense of responsibility is something she does not take lightly.

“People here genuinely care and don’t hesitate to step up when someone needs help,” she said. “That sense of care is rare.”

Places That Feel Like Home

Like many locals, Cameron holds deep appreciation for Elkin’s small businesses and the way they support one another. She has spent time working alongside the staff at the Reeves Theater and treasures evenings there listening to music and enjoying meals from Side Door Café.

She also finds comfort in the everyday spaces. Coffee shops. Restaurants. The places that keep downtown feeling alive while still familiar.

Watching these businesses grow alongside her own journey has made those connections even more meaningful.

It Takes a Village

For Cameron, community involvement is not optional. It is the foundation of what makes Elkin thrive.

“Our success in work and life will never truly be just our own,” she said. “It’s made possible by the people who invested in us along the way.”

From childhood through adulthood, she has kept a running list of those who offered guidance, support, or encouragement. That collective investment has shaped her path and deepened her gratitude for the town that raised her.

The People of Elkin

When Cameron describes the people of Elkin, a few qualities rise to the top. Kindness. Genuineness. A deep investment in one another.

There is pride here, paired with humility. Generosity that is offered freely. A willingness to make newcomers feel welcome while still holding close to long standing roots.

When asked to describe Elkin in a single word, Cameron didn’t hesitate.

Elkin is Home.