SPOTLIGHTS!
This page is dedicated to celebrating the impact of Franklin Vance Warren Opportunity Inc. It is a space where we proudly give a SPOTLIGHT on our donors, sponsors, clients, partners, and staff who make our mission possible.
Here, we will highlight achievements, share success stories, and recognize the many positive happenings in our community—especially where Franklin Vance Warren Opportunity Inc plays a vital role. Every success matters, and every contribution deserves to be seen and celebrated.
Together, we are building stronger futures and creating lasting change.
FVW Executive Spotlight: Felicia Coleman Gregory
Chief Operating Officer & Community Services Block Grant Director
Felicia Coleman Gregory currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer and Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Director for Franklin-Vance-Warren Opportunity, Inc. Her journey with the organization began in 1994 as the MIS Clerk for the Summer Youth Program. From the very beginning, her strong work ethic, initiative, and collaborative spirit set her apart. Her dedication earned her a promise from the CEO that she would be hired permanently when an opportunity arose — a promise that was fulfilled. Today, she stands 31 years into her dedicated service to the agency and the community.
Throughout her tenure at Franklin-Vance-Warren Opportunity, Felicia has held a wide range of leadership and programmatic roles. She has served as a Community Outreach Specialist, Job Developer/Self-Sufficiency Specialist, Program Coordinator, and Director of Family Services and Resources for the Family Resource Center, a program funded through Governor Hunt’s Crime Bill. This innovative initiative operated on the campus of an elementary school and functioned as a local substationsupporting law enforcement and community stability.
Her experience also includes serving as a Housing Specialist and as the Social Services/Parent Involvement Coordinator for the Head Start program. Felicia later stepped into the role of Interim Chief Executive Officer, during which she served on the Board of the North Carolina Community Action Association and was elected Central District Chairperson.
A graduate of Saint Augustine’s College, Felicia earned her Bachelor’s degree in Administration in 1994. It was during this time that she committed herself to joining a team devoted to strengthening individuals, families, and communities.
In her current role, Felicia oversees the day-to-day operations of the agency and remains deeply committed to improving the lives of all who seek assistance. She believes firmly in the power of service and often reflects on her guiding principle:
“If I can help even one person, I have fulfilled my purpose.”
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Outside of Work
When she’s not working, Felicia enjoys traveling and spending quality time with her family, valuing moments that allow her to recharge and stay grounded in what matters most.
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Looking Ahead
Felicia is most excited about a future where FVW Opportunity is financially stable and not solely reliant on grant funding — a future where the organization can help individuals and families regardless of circumstance, without limitations tied to funding cycles. Her vision reflects long-term sustainability, growth, and the continued ability to serve the community without barriers.
Special
Thanks
Thank you to Perry Memorial Library for the invitation and warm welcome extended to Dr. Abdul S.M. Rasheed, CEO of Franklin-Vance-Warren Opportunity, Inc. It was an honor to participate in a program that brings families together and encourages our children to learn, grow, and shine. We value partnerships that prioritize literacy, culture, and community impact.
FVW Spotlight: Courtney Durham
Meet Courtney Durham, Assisted Housing Director for the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program at Franklin Vance Warren Opportunity, Inc. With more than 28 years of experience in the housing field, Courtney brings a wealth of knowledge, dedication, and compassion to the families and communities she serves.
Over the course of her career, Courtney has worn many hats — including serving as a Leasing Specialist, where she built a strong foundation in property management, landlord relations, and tenant services. Her diverse professional experience has given her a comprehensive, hands-on understanding of assisted housing operations from both the administrative and client-centered perspective.
Courtney is also a North Carolina Certified Peer Support Specialist, reflecting her commitment to person-centered care, advocacy, and empowerment. Through peer support, she walks alongside individuals and families as they navigate housing stability, recovery, and emotional well-being — building trust, engagement, and long-term success.
In addition, Courtney serves as a Certified Housing Quality Standards (HQS) Inspector, ensuring that assisted housing units meet federal safety and quality requirements. Her work helps safeguard residents by upholding standards related to health, safety, and habitability, while collaborating with landlords to maintain compliance and improve housing conditions.
Courtney holds an Associate Degree in Human Services and is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. Her career reflects a powerful blend of technical expertise, regulatory knowledge, and compassionate service — all focused on promoting safe, stable housing and an improved quality of life for the communities she proudly serves.
