Faces of Elkin: Laurenn Singleton Pendergraft, The Ark

If you've spent any time getting to know the heart of Elkin, there's a good chance you've crossed paths with Laurenn Singleton Pendergraft - whether you realized it or not. As the Director of The Ark, Elkin's shelter for women and children, Laurenn's compassion, leadership, and unwavering spirit have left an indelible mark on countless lives.

Born and raised right here in Elkin, Laurenn has always had a deep connection to this small town that she calls home. Today, she lives here with her husband, Thomas, and their daughter, Raegann - building a beautiful life rooted in the very community that shaped her.

A Love Story at Reevestock

Some of Laurenn's most cherished memories are tied to Reevestock, Elkin's beloved hometown music festival. It's where she first met Thomas - and where, eight years later, they returned to say "I do," marrying at the very spot where their story began.

That kind of full-circle magic feels uniquely Elkin: the kind of place where small-town moments turn into life's biggest milestones.

Discovering Elkin's True Spirit

While Laurenn has always loved Elkin, she says it wasn't until she stepped into her role at The Ark six years ago that she truly understood the depth of the community's spirit.

"I didn't fully grasp the sense of community in Elkin until I started at The Ark," she says. "It's so much bigger than I ever realized."

From daily donations and volunteer efforts to town-wide fundraisers and acts of kindness, Laurenn has seen firsthand how Elkin rallies to support its own - and anyone else who needs it.

Building Hope Through The Ark's Cardboard City

One of the local events closest to Laurenn's heart is Cardboard City, The Ark's largest annual fundraiser. Built from the ground up, Cardboard City recently celebrated its tenth year - and every single year, the community shows up stronger than ever.

Familiar faces return, new ones join in, and together, they help ensure that The Ark can continue its mission of shelter, support, and hope.

"It's the kind of event that truly keeps The Ark open," Laurenn says, and one she looks forward to every year with immense pride.

A Second Baby (and a First Calling)

For Laurenn, The Ark is more than a job - it's family. She often calls it her "second baby" (with her daughter Raegann coming first).

Helping others, witnessing acts of kindness, and being part of life-changing transformations are, for Laurenn, some of the most gratifying parts of her life. The work can be challenging, but the rewards - the renewed hope, the new beginnings - are what keep her going.

Why Elkin?

When asked what makes Elkin so unique and special, Laurenn didn't think twice: it's the people. The genuine, constant support, the immediate response to a need, the way the community lifts each other up without hesitation - it all makes a world of difference.

"Elkin is the most amazing small town with a thriving community that holds its members close and truly cares," she says. "If you say you need something, someone will show up. Every time."

And thanks to people like Laurenn Singleton Pendergraft, Elkin's spirit of generosity and heart continues to shine brighter every year.