Applications are due on Jan. 31 for the N.C. Dept. of Commerce’s Certified Retirement Community Program for communities that are positioning themselves to attract retirees as an economic and community development strategy. To gain certification, a local government must submit an application for consideration. Applications are accepted twice each year. Once a community has completed the certification process, the Division will help market and promote the community as a retirement destination. There are currently seven Certified Retirement Communities in North Carolina: Asheboro, Eden, Lumberton, Marion, Mount Airy, Pittsboro, and Sanford. To learn more about the program and download an application, visit the program’s website. For questions or more information, contact Tourism Development Manager André Nabors at (919) 733-7502.