Nonprofit Spotlight: Star-C

We’re excited to spotlight on our amazing partners - Star-C. Founded in 2014, Star-C is a nonprofit organization based in Atlanta with a mission to reduce resident transiency in affordable housing communities and nearby schools, provide academic support for children, and ultimately improve the quality of life for both individuals and neighborhoods.

In 2024, they continued to thrive with afterschool and summer camp enrichment for approximately 200 elementary students to wellness initiatives, eviction relief, and senior citizen programs serving over 2,200 residents! Star-C fosters effective collaborations with nonprofit partners, municipal resources, and critical service providers to break the cycle of transiency in underserved neighborhoods.

Star-C is a tremendous asset to the affordable housing community, providing essential services and support that empower families, enhance neighborhoods, and foster stability and growth for the community as a whole.

Learn more about Star-C in our interview with both Aleksandra Lesher & Keya Oates!

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Tell us about your organization – what’s your mission, and what does it mean to the our community?

Founded in 2014, Star-C is a nonprofit organization based in Atlanta with a mission to reduce resident transiency in affordable housing communities and nearby schools, provide academic support for children, and ultimately improve the quality of life for both individuals and neighborhoods. Our vision is to create affordable communities of choice. We achieve this by partnering with conscientious landlords committed to offering well-maintained, affordable housing for working families, many of whom live near the poverty line. Star-C's programs are housed at on-site community centers which host our suite of wraparound services. Our on-site presence offers convenience for residents to participate, overcoming barriers such as transportation and cost, and builds trust within the community. Those we serve are primarily working families, many who live near the poverty line. The needs of these communities are great; many low-income families struggle with income sufficiency, food security, mental and physical health, safe housing, employment opportunities, transportation, and more. The lack of all or some of these essential needs can be severely detrimental to a family’s wellbeing and can lead to family instability and ultimately poverty. Star-C’s programs are an important component contributing to family wellbeing, which leads to family stability and improved health outcomes of residents.

What’s the history of your organization? How and why did it get started?

Founded in 2014 by Margaret (Marjy) Stagmeier, Star-C is a collaborative, nonprofit 501(c)3 providing affordable apartment community residents with free educational, wellness, food security, and eviction relief programs. Star-C’s program model is simple and unique: reduce transiency by keeping families stable, in an affordable housing environment, with access to educational support and affordable medical services, and they will have the highest chance to thrive. Our “community-centered model” results in decreased transiency for apartment communities and schools, establishes strong bonds within communities, decreases expenses for families, and provides educational support for elementary students. One of the biggest determinants of an under-performing school is transiency (movement of a student out of a learning environment after a short period of time) and one of the biggest transiency factors is the lack of affordable housing. Every time a student moves, they lose three months of a nine-month school calendar. A Government Accountability Office study found that families who did not own their home made up 39% of the most highly mobile students. Last year, Star-C expanded its programming through the addition of properties in Clayton County (The Flats & Villas at Mt. Zion – including a community specifically for individuals aged 65+), another property in Cobb County (Amber Grove) and our largest property yet, Redwood Ridge in Forest Park, with 593 units. Each property utilizes the Star-C model of our other properties, wherein we provide our signature suite of services to bolster families and communities and fully address their needs in a variety of ways.

What kind of programming do you offer to the community?

Afterschool & Summer Camp - Led by a Site Director and an Assistant Site Director, these programs are designed to provide a safe, community-based place for children to be while their families are at work. During the school year, students are met at the bus and receive homework assistance, the opportunity to participate in enrichment activities, and a structured curriculum incorporating an emphasis on mental/emotional wellbeing and free play. Our summer camp provides a similar environment, at the same onsite location, with the addition of field trips and additional nutrition support in the form of breakfast and lunch. By alleviating the burden of childcare costs and providing high-quality educational support, Star-C’s programs help working families achieve greater economic stability. Parents can go to work with peace of mind, knowing their children are in a safe, supportive, and enriching environment. This support is crucial for families living near the poverty line, as it helps them to break the cycle of poverty and transiency by enabling consistent employment and economic self-sufficiency. Star-C hosted Afterschool & Summer Camp programs at all full-service sites, supporting nearly 200 underserved children who benefitted from almost 1,400 donated volunteer hours and were provided over 93,000 curriculum hours of learning. Average daily attendance by site for 2023-24 programs was: Willow Branch-38, Stratford Ridge-39, Amber Grove-20, The Flats & Villas at Mt. Zion-34, Redwood Ridge-31, Springview/Summerdale-30. All children participating in Summer Camp enjoyed a range of field trips- such as roller skating, bowling, splash pads, movies, and outings to Six Flags, Stone Mountain Park, and Zoo Atlanta.

• Health & Wellness - Health & wellness programs operate year-round with a goal to provide, at minimum, one event per property per quarter. Star-C collaborates with organizations such as UnitedHealthcare, JenCare, C.O.R.E., Grady Healthcare, Family Health Center at Cobb, Morehouse School of Medicine, Medcura, and others to implement wellness programs at its sites. Star-C successfully implemented wellness events at all program sites, including free checkups, health screenings, vaccinations and more, provided by local doctors. Strategically located on-site at the apartment communities we serve, thereby removing barriers for residents to have access to essential medical resources, our aim is to provide additional health/wellness events at each of our full-service sites and additional sites through Star-C Select. - Star-C Select has also provided additional services and resources to both our full-service sites and additional communities by partnering with iThink Financial to bolster financial literacy, with 86 new accounts opened thus far in 2024. Additional resources include tax preparation and life insurance, providing a full suite of community service offerings to our residents in need. Finally, we are piloting a financial literacy with Frontline Housing at Springview/Summerdale & Redwood Ridge, which includes a savings match program for residents who sign up.

• Eviction Relief – During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Star-C assisted with eviction relief efforts for the Metro Atlanta area while maintaining its mission of providing wraparound services to help children and families in underserved communities prosper. In late 2023, Mayor Andre Dickens and the City of Atlanta announced a $2 million Eviction Diversion grant to provide rental assistance to low-income households to be distributed in 2024, followed by an additional $2 million announced in July. To date, $16.5 million in assistance has been raised for families during and after COVID, serving 330+ properties over a 14-county region.

What problem is your organization trying to solve, and can you tell us more about the issue?

One of the biggest determinants of an under-performing school is transiency (movement of a student out of a learning environment after a short period of time) and one of the biggest transiency factors is the lack of affordable housing. Every time a student moves, they lose three months of a nine-month school calendar. Those three months are critical to a student - not only academically, but mentally and emotionally as well. A Government Accountability Office study found that families who did not own their home made up 39% of the most highly mobile students. Transiency is only one part of the equation, however. In Atlanta, it is estimated that 1 in 6 children won’t know where their next meal will come from, a heartbreaking statistic highlighting just how many families struggle with food insecurity. While our afterschool and summer camp programs provide elementary students with critical nutrition support, we also aim to offer supplemental nutrition while students are on break from school. The nutrition support we currently provide is often students’ only nutrition for the day, so when school is on break, our students suffer. It has also been reported that families are forced to make choices around whether to feed themselves or their children. Thus, our goal is to provide vital nutrition support to students (and families) at our full-service sites during the seasonal breaks aligning with their public school calendar year – hosting the food distribution the week prior to the break. We've found that the combination of stable rent, free educational programs for children, and the provision of on-site health and wellness resources has enabled residents and families to thrive.

“At Star-C, volunteers are vital to our mission of supporting families in affordable housing communities. Whether you’re assisting a child with homework, helping with logistics at a community event, or supporting a Site Director with daily operations, each and every role makes a lasting impact - and our work would not be possible without volunteers!”

— Aleksandra Lesher & Keya Oates

What’s your biggest highlight or success from the past year?

It's hard to choose! Between celebrating our tenth year of providing services to Atlanta families in need - to our 2nd annual back-to-school Backpack Giveaway, where we reached 53 communities, distributing over 2,600 backpacks filled with resources to help students start the year right - to just last week receiving report cards and seeing firsthand how our students have flourished since being in Star-C programs (averaging an A for all students across all six sites!). We are truly grateful for the support of our volunteers, organizations like Hands On Atlanta, and those who help support our work every day.

How many volunteers do you need every month, and can you describe the experience of serving with your organization for the volunteer? What do they do? What’s a day in the life as a volunteer with your organization?

Volunteers with Star-C gain more than just hours, they gain community. Whether you're high-fiving kids after tutoring, preparing a game booth, or helping organize the snack cabinet, your presence supports healthy development, academic growth, and strong neighborhoods.

Volunteers receive a brief orientation, are matched with a role that fits their interest, and are supported by our team every step of the way. A day in the life at Star-C is hands-on, purpose-driven, and deeply rewarding. We welcome individuals, small groups, corporate teams, and school volunteers alike. Let us know your interests, and we’ll find the perfect way for you to get involved.

Monthly volunteer needed: 40–60 volunteers per month during the school year - primarily supporting after-school programming; 60–80 volunteers per month during summer months and special event seasons - supporting summer camp, event planning, and large-scale festivals

What types of projects do you offer? What are your biggest projects available, and needs from volunteers? Tell us about a few different offerings.

At Star-C, we believe in strengthening communities by supporting the families and children who call them home. Through year-round programs, ongoing support services, and unforgettable community events, we create safe spaces where kids can thrive—and volunteers play a huge part in making that happen. Our Biggest Ongoing Projects are:

1. After-School Program (August – May) One of our longest-running and most essential programs, our After-School Program runs Monday through Friday across multiple Star-C communities. Volunteers are needed to: Provide homework help and tutoring Lead small enrichment activities (STEM, reading groups, art, games) Assist with check-in, snack distribution, and classroom support Offer mentorship and positive encouragement to students Typical Hours: 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM (Weekdays)

2. Summer Camp (June – July) Our Summer Camp keeps kids active, learning, and having fun during the summer months. Volunteers help by: Running or assisting with daily activity stations (sports, crafts, science, etc.) Supporting field trips and outdoor recreation Helping with meals, transitions, and group management Bringing energy and fun to campers ages 5–12 Flexible shifts between 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM- based on the program/event We’re Active Across Atlanta You’ll have a chance to serve at one of six Star-C community sites throughout the Atlanta area, including: Cobb Fulton Clayton Dekalb Each site offers unique opportunities to support kids in different neighborhoods, but all share the same mission: wraparound care that uplifts entire communities. Why Volunteer with Star-C? You’ll build real connections with students, families, and staff You’ll help kids build confidence and reach their potential You’ll become part of a community-driven mission focused on education, wellness, and equity Whether you're available once a week or once a season—we have a place for you Volunteer Roles You Can Choose From: Homework Helper Reading Buddy Activity Leader (Art, STEM, Sports) Summer Camp help Event Volunteer (Spring Fling, Fall Festival) Site Director Support Events Manager support

“One of my favorite things about working at Star-C is the way we show up for families—not just during big events, but consistently through our after-school programs, summer camps, and everyday interactions. I’ve been with the organization since the very beginning, over 10 years ago, and it’s been incredible to watch us grow from a small initiative into a trusted community partner making real impact across metro Atlanta. What keeps me inspired is the kids. Whether I’m planning a Spring Fling or just stopping by an after-school program, the relationships we build are lasting. I love knowing that even if I haven’t seen a student in weeks or months, they’ll still run up with a big smile yelling, ‘Ms. Keya!’ That tells me we’re doing something right, we’re making memories, building trust, and creating spaces where children feel seen and valued. That’s what makes this work so special to me.”

— Keya Oates

What do volunteers love about working with your organization?

• Real Connections: Volunteers build meaningful relationships with kids through tutoring, games, and mentorship.

• Welcoming Environment: Volunteers feel valued, supported, and part of the team. Visible Impact: Whether helping with after-school programs or big events, the difference is easy to see.

• Flexible Roles: From reading buddies to event support, there’s something for everyone.

• Lasting Memories: Volunteers often return because the experience is fun, fulfilling, and unforgettable. Star-C makes it easy to serve and even easier to love doing it.

What’s going to be happening with your organization in 2025 that you’re really excited about?

Every summer, Star-C hosts Star-C Week, a highly anticipated tradition held during June or July. This special week brings together all six of our program sites for one major field trip to an Atlanta landmark. It’s a fun-filled day of education, exploration, and excitement, giving our kids the chance to experience something new outside of their everyday routines. As they travel across the city, many get to see iconic parts of Atlanta for the very first time, broadening their perspectives and creating unforgettable memories. In past years, we’ve visited the Atlanta Zoo and had full-access tours of Mercedes-Benz Stadium. This year, we’re excited to keep the tradition going and are hoping to take our kids to Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves, for another incredible day of discovery and fun. Star-C Week is more than just a field trip, it’s a celebration of community, opportunity, and the joy of shared experiences.

Let’s leave our readers with a list of ways they can jump in and get involved. Tell us how we can support you!

There are several ways individuals, schools, and organizations can get involved and make a meaningful impact.

• Volunteer Opportunities - Support after-school programs, summer camps, and community events like Spring Flings and Fall Festivals Volunteers are encouraged to bring friends, family, coworkers, or school groups—we welcome community-wide support and partnership

• In-Kind Donations: Classroom supplies, event materials, gently used books, games, and hygiene kits

• Monetary Contributions: Help cover costs for student field trips, camp activities, special events, and enrichment programs

• Donate Snacks: Healthy snacks are needed regularly for our after-school programs and summer camps Sponsor a Child- I'm not sure if we can include this either Cover the cost of snacks, supplies, and programming for a child in after-school or summer camp

• Feed a Family for the Holidays: Contribute to our seasonal meal programs for Star-C families

• Support Holiday Toy Drives: Help bring joy to children by donating new toys and gifts

• Host a Drive: Organize a donation drive for classroom supplies, hygiene kits, or non-perishable food

• Corporate & Community Partnerships: Star-C welcomes sponsorships and partnerships to sustain long-term programming and community impact.

We are always looking to build new relationships with individuals and organizations that share our vision of healthy, thriving communities. Let us know how you’d like to get involved!

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Nonprofit Spotlight: Legacy Park

We’re proud to spotlight our amazing nonprofit partner, Legacy Park. This 77-acre gem in Decatur is more than green space, it’s a bold vision for community, conservation, and connection. 

Legacy Park is redefining what it means to build a thriving, inclusive city. With affordable housing underway, restored woodlands and wetlands, vibrant arts programming, and a home to 17 nonprofit partners, they’re proving that environmental stewardship and community-building go hand in hand. Legacy Park isn’t just preserving history, they’re creating a future where everyone belongs. Volunteer with Legacy Park here!

Learn more about Legacy Park in our interview with Madeleine Henner below!

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Tell us about your organization – what’s your mission, and what does it mean to the our community?

Legacy Decatur is the nonprofit steward of Legacy Park, a 77-acre property dedicated to environmental preservation and education, recreation, affordable housing, and inclusive community building. These goals are sometimes perceived as contradictory, but Legacy Decatur works to show that we can stitch together opportunities that strengthen relationships between neighbors who work together to be better stewards of the natural environment. From 1873 until 2017, the Legacy Park property served as the United Methodist Children’s Home for foster youth. Thousands of Georgia’s most vulnerable children came to this site, where they found safe housing, quiet natural space, recreation to heal through play, and a community that cared for them. As data began to show that children have better outcomes in home settings as compared to institutions, the Children’s Home decided to sell 500 South Columbia Drive. The City of Decatur purchased the land with the promise that the property could continue to be a source of good in the community. Rather than assume community desires, the City of Decatur underwent an extensive civic engagement process that sought the feedback of thousands of our neighbors. The residents’ feedback crafted a Master Plan that reflects the needs and desires of our community and ensures that Legacy Park will be a welcoming and engaging space for all.

Can you share some impact stats or comments about the work being done by your organization?

Legacy Park includes 25 buildings and a 22-acre conservation area with a pond, wetlands, nature trails, woodlands, and meadows. As an urban greenspace, Legacy Park provides vital habitat for wildlife and improves water and air quality. The conservation initiatives encourage community resilience and stewardship of shared resources.

In 2024, Legacy Park began construction on 132 affordable housing units through the Decatur Housing Authority; opened the Creative Village artist studios; planted 450 native plants; removed invasive plants and 4,139 pounds of garbage; constructed a track and field; installed restrooms; increased environmental programming; and hosted 31,900 visitors at Legacy Park.

As a community space, we repurpose the historic buildings for inclusive events and office space for our 17 nonprofit partners, whose expertise and programming further the mission and make Legacy welcoming and engaging for all people.

• Global Growers operates a two-acre community garden for refugee growers at Legacy Park as one of their 10 growing sites across the Atlanta Metro.

• Refugee Women's Network offers social and economic adjustment services for refugee families, including a newly opened commercial kitchen at Legacy Park for their Chefs Club entrepreneurial catering program.

• Trellis Horticultural Therapy Alliance operates an Ability Garden for veterans and those with physical disabilities.

• L’Arche Atlanta has two homes for adults with and without developmental disabilities in Decatur and hosts inclusive events at Legacy Park.

• Paint Love offers trauma-informed, intergenerational art programming.

• Decatur Arts Alliance operates seven artist studios, as well as art classes and gallery space.

• Frank Hamilton School hosts bluegrass and old-time music classes and performances.

• Global Spokes fixes donated bikes to donate to low-income folks, especially refugees.

• Grief House weaves grief into life with art, nature, and group gatherings.

• Wild Nest Bird Rehab cares for approximately 1,500 injured and orphaned birds each year, releasing many at Legacy Park.

• Compassionate Atlanta promotes compassion to self, community, and systems through their work in inter-faith, LGBTQIA, immigration, sustainability, and health.

• Decatur Book Festival hosts a renowned book festival that promotes creative expression and literacy.

• Decatur Education Foundation supports students and their families with food, curriculum support, mental health services, and teacher grants.

• Decatur Land Trust works to address the city’s loss of affordable homes and low-to-moderate-income residents in the City of Decatur.

• Georgia Arborist Association offers arborist education and safety training.

• Tai Chi 4 LIFE Cooperative provides classes for all levels based on traditions thousands of years old and taking in modern teaching methods learn to combine your mind, body, and spirit to find harmony and balance.

• Wylde Center operates five greenspaces around East Atlanta and offers environmental education field trips, classes, camps, and programming for folks of all ages.

What’s the history of your organization? How and why did it get started?

Decatur’s success is in large part due to the community's long standing spirit of interdependence. When our residents see an issue, they dive in to become the solution. Legacy Decatur started in 2014 to serve as the fiscal agent for all of these grassroots organizations doing good work around the city. When the Legacy Park Master Plan identified a need for a nonprofit organization to manage the Park, Legacy Decatur’s history of collaboration and grassroots problem solving made us the ideal fit to implement the Master Plan.

What kind of programming do you offer to the community?

Legacy Park offers a space for people to come together to be in community. Legacy Park is a highly used space, with 31,900 unique visitors in 2024. Our volunteer-built all natural surface 5k cross country course is used by Decatur High School teams, runners of all speeds, dog walkers, and birders who come to see the 172 species of birds found at Legacy. Many folks come regularly to explore the park, picnic on the lawn, or play on the inclusive playground. We also have folks that come specifically for events like our food vendor picnic series Truckin’ Tuesdays in May and September or our annual Community Day, coming on April 26, celebrating the community-serving work of Legacy Park’s 17 nonprofit tenants. In addition to Legacy Decatur events, each of our nonprofits activate their spaces to welcome specific groups of people, and our affordable venues are also available for private gatherings.

What problem is your organization trying to solve, and can you tell us more about the issue?

Listening to the community, Legacy Park works to preserve our environment, provide recreational spaces to build healthy habits, increase affordable housing availability, and offer opportunities for inclusive community building. 2024 was a year where news of natural disasters became a frequent reminder of both the value and vulnerability of the natural assets in our communities. In the extreme heat of the summer, Legacy Park’s woodland canopy provided shade and absorbed heat. The plants’ leaves and roots filtered pollutants from the air and water. During Hurricane Helene, its wetlands absorbed the overflowing water after the dams burst and prevented the flooding of our downhill neighbors. This urban oasis fed and sheltered pollinators, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals.

It is no secret that Decatur, like much of the country, lacks enough affordable housing. The Decatur Housing Authority broke ground on the 132 apartments serving low and middle income residents. These apartments will allow teachers, firefighters, and local business employees to live in the community that they serve. In a time where Health and Human Services has identified isolation and loneliness as an epidemic, Legacy invested in inclusive community. The state of the art track and field for open community use, City Schools of Decatur students, and Parks and Recreation programming will invite folks to engage in healthy activity together. The installation of public restrooms available during open Park hours will allow folks to share time outdoors for longer than their bladder. The Creative Village seven affordable art studios, gallery space, and art classes introduce people to new hobbies and new friends thanks to the partnership of the Decatur Arts Alliance. Legacy now hosts seventeen nonprofits, whose partnerships, expertise, and programs make Decatur a better place. Legacy welcomed thousands of people to the Park at events, the inclusive playground, and the peaceful trails.

How do volunteers support your mission? What impact do they have on your work? What difference do they make?

In 2024, over 150 people volunteered with Legacy Decatur to pull invasives, reintroduce wetland plants, refinish the chapel hardwood floors, paint our biggest community event space, and mulch trees to protect their roots and improve soil health.

What’s your biggest highlight or success from the past year?

The transformation of the wetland was a major highlight last year. With volunteer support, we removed over 4,000 pounds of garbage, pulled piles of invasive privet and English ivy, and planted 300 native grasses, ferns, and shrubs. This space is so much healthier without the plastic leaching into the water and the invasives choking out any biodiversity. The addition of native plants filter out pollutants, prevent erosion, and provide a sustainable food source to the 180 bird species found at Legacy Park.

How many volunteers do you need every month, and can you describe the experience of serving with your organization for the volunteer? What do they do? What’s a day in the life as a volunteer with your organization?

With a staff of two, Legacy Decatur relies on volunteers to make things happen. For example, this past Tuesday, the Atlanta Braves staff joined us to Pitch in for the Planet. Once they had their project-specific tools, they got to work. The front garden had become so overgrown that it had to be mowed to maintain vehicle sightline. Some of our native plants returned, as did many weeds. The volunteers carefully combed through the garden to pull invasive grasses to make room for 19 new native pollinator-friendly plants and terracotta pots that will provide continuous irrigation for the new plants. This garden is at the heart of the Park and greets every visitor that comes through the main drive. Revitalizing the pollinator garden announces our commitment to sustainability while also creating a beautiful and welcoming aesthetic.

What types of projects do you offer? What are your biggest projects available, and needs from volunteers? Tell us about a few different offerings.

With 77-acres and 25 buildings, Legacy Park offers a wide range of volunteer opportunities. Our largest volunteer need is removing invasive plants from the 22-acre conservation area. Because we limit the chemical treatment, hand-pulling invasive plants becomes the main way that we can restore the woodlands. Mulching the many trees is another great opportunity for large volunteer groups. With many events at Legacy, the tree roots become exposed, endangering the health of the trees. Mulching each tree protects the trees and prolongs the shade and wildlife habitat they provide.

Volunteer groups may also build picnic tables, install bike racks, and pick up trash around the park. As we repair the historic buildings around Legacy, we repurpose them for nonprofit organizations. Once a building has had the capital repairs to receive a certificate of occupancy, volunteers can help to clean, paint, and prepare the building for the incoming nonprofit.

Who is your volunteer manager, and what’s their favorite thing about working for your organization?

Leaving my office, I walk past the L’Arche offices as they plan their upcoming Legacy potluck for adults with and without developmental disabilities. Downstairs, cumin, coriander, and cardamom drift out of the commercial kitchen, busy with refugee women building their catering businesses, many earning their own income for the first time. Once outside the administration building, the melody from the Frank Hamilton bluegrass jam intermingles with joyous shrieks from the kids playing on the inclusive playground and those playing on the track and field. The watercolor class paints the flowering broccoli in the Trellis Ability Garden, where veterans with PTSD and folks using wheelchairs after brain or spinal cord injuries have used the accessible slate path and raised garden beds to tend to the plants and reap the benefits of having time with your hands in the dirt. Once on the nature trails, I pass by birders with top of the line cameras trying to capture a Ruby Crowned Kinglet alongside families and dog walkers trying to expel some energy before dinner. The bees and butterflies flock to the pollinator garden in the Global Growers Garden, where 33 immigrant families grow culturally-significant food for themselves and their neighbors. Legacy is a unique and beautiful ecosystem of community, and I love to be a part of it.

What do volunteers love about working with your organization?

Because Legacy Park is a relatively new public space, volunteers love to learn about the property that many have driven past countless times without knowing that they can come explore. In the conservation area, volunteers are introduced to the trail system as they pull invasives and plant native flora. They see and hear the many birds that will eat the berries and nest in the branches of the newly planted shrubs. They see the turtles, salamanders, and other aquatic creatures whose habitat will be less polluted because of the grasses that filter out toxins before they enter the wetlands. They can build community with their fellow volunteers and those walking on the trails to continue the work of earth stewardship.

What’s going to be happening with your organization in 2025 that you’re really excited about?

In 2025, we are so excited to increase programming. At the end of March, we opened a beautiful track and field that is attracting tons of new visitors to Legacy. This space welcomes a new constituency to fall in love with this space. To invite them to get involved further, we’re expanding programming to get folks plugged into our environmental preservation and education work and inclusive community building.

Let’s leave our readers with a list of ways they can jump in and get involved. Tell us how we can support you!

We would love for you to join us in making our community more green, more attainable, and more connected! If you’ve never been to Legacy, go for a walk on the trails, hit a new PR on our track, or attend an event on the front lawn. Once you’ve experienced the Legacy magic, tell a friend about us. To keep the space clean and beautiful, join us for a volunteer day and donate to provide the resources to sustain the work we do. See you soon!

Nonprofit Spotlight: Latin American Association

We’re proud to spotlight our incredible nonprofit partner, the Latin American Association (LAA). With roots that stretch back to 1972, LAA has grown into a dynamic hub of opportunity, connection, and empowerment for Georgia’s Latino communities.

At LAA, it’s all about building a future where everyone thrives. They’re tearing down barriers and opening doors, providing immigration legal services, education, entrepreneurship support, and family resources that spark lasting change. Their work isn’t just about services; it’s about strengthening communities, creating hope, and making opportunity possible for all.

Learn more about LAA in our interview below!

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Tell us about your organization – what’s your mission, and what does it mean to the our community?

Our mission is to empower Georgia' Latinos to adapt, integrate, and thrive. Our vision is opportunity for all. Our mission brings connection, resources, and hope to our community.

Can you share some impact stats or comments about the work being done by your organization?

In 2024, we delivered 69,000 services to over 24,000 individual clients and their families. We have: - provided 168,726 pounds of food to 4,474 families through our food pantry and food distribution events - Instructed 1,814 adult English language learners - Hosted 2,559 job seekers at our job fairs - Equipped 1,204 job seekers with job readiness through employment orientations & resume reviews.

What’s the history of your organization? How and why did it get started?

The Latin American Association (LAA) was founded in 1972 to support Atlanta’s growing Latino community, initially offering job and housing assistance from the trunk of a car. Today, it operates from a 45,000-square-foot facility on Buford Highway and additional service centers in Gwinnett, and northwest Georgia, providing immigration legal services, adult education, citizenship support, entrepreneurship programs, and family well-being resources—serving as a vibrant hub for Georgia’s Latino communities.

What kind of programming do you offer to the community?

The Latin American Association (LAA) empowers Georgia’s Latino community through five key service areas: Immigration Legal Services: Legal consultations, assistance with DACA, TPS, naturalization, family petitions, and more. Adult Education & Workforce Development: ESL, Spanish literacy, computer classes, job readiness training, and small business support. Family Stabilization & Well-Being: Emergency assistance, homelessness prevention, connection to community and government resources, working with victims of domestic violence and case management. Youth Services: After-school programs, college access support, youth leadership development, and summer enrichment. Economic Empowerment: Financial education, entrepreneurship programs, and services tailored to Latina business owners. These programs are complemented by community engagement initiatives, including citizenship clinics, health fairs, support groups, clubs, and cultural events.

What problem is your organization trying to solve, and can you tell us more about the issue?

Many Latino families in Georgia face practical challenges that limit their ability to fully contribute to the state’s economy and civic life. These include language barriers, limited access to workforce training, and difficulty navigating legal systems. The Latin American Association provides tools and resources that help individuals become self-sufficient, productive members of their communities—supporting stronger families, a more prepared workforce, and a more connected Georgia.

How do volunteers support your mission? What impact do they have on your work? What difference do they make?

Volunteers are the heart of our work at the Latin American Association. They help bring our mission to life by showing up with compassion, consistency, and a shared commitment to community. Whether they are helping a job seeker prepare for employment, organizing and distributing food in our pantry, calling clients for follow-up, assisting with ESL classes, or hosting community gatherings—our volunteers provide the hands-on support that strengthens families and builds trust. Their presence ensures that every client feels seen, supported, and connected. By giving their time and talents, volunteers expand our reach, deepen our impact, and help create a more welcoming and empowered Georgia for all.

What’s your biggest highlight or success from the past year?

March 1, 2025 we held a food distribution with the Atlanta Hawks + CareSource. We had over 75 volunteers sign-up to help out and we provided over 10,000 pounds of fresh produce and shelf-stable ingredients to 479 families.

How many volunteers do you need every month, and can you describe the experience of serving with your organization for the volunteer? What do they do? What’s a day in the life as a volunteer with your organization?

We average about 130 volunteers a month. Absolutely! Here's a shortened version with the same warmth and detail: Volunteering at the Latin American Association means becoming part of a welcoming, mission-driven community. Whether you're organizing food donations, helping job seekers polish their resumés, supporting ESL classes, or calling clients for follow-up, your time directly supports families on their path to stability. Each day brings meaningful, hands-on opportunities to connect with others and make a tangible impact. Volunteers work alongside dedicated staff and fellow community members who share a passion for service. It's a chance to give back, build relationships, and help create a more inclusive Georgia for all.

What types of projects do you offer? What are your biggest projects available, and needs from volunteers? Tell us about a few different offerings.

The Latin American Association offers a variety of meaningful volunteer projects that support our programs and connect directly with community needs. These include: Workforce Support: Help clients prepare for employment through resumé reviews, job fair assistance, and mock interviews. Education Support: Assist with ESL classes Food Security: Sort, organize, and distribute food through our onsite pantry and special distribution events. Community Engagement: Support cultural events, resource fairs, or host community-building activities. Client Follow-Up & Outreach: Make calls to check in on clients, remind them of appointments, or share information about available services. Biggest Ongoing Needs: Volunteers for job fairs and resumé review days Regular support with food pantry organization and distribution Bilingual volunteers (English/Spanish) to assist with ESL classes and client communications Help with event setup, hospitality, and logistics at outreach events and community celebrations

Who is your volunteer manager, and what’s their favorite thing about working for your organization?

Catherine Warren wears the hats of director of operations and volunteer program lead - her favorite thing about the volunteer program is seeing volunteers make connections with the LAA's staff and clients.

What do volunteers love about working with your organization?

Volunteers love the sense of purpose and community they experience at the Latin American Association. They feel valued, supported, and inspired by the impact they make—whether it’s helping someone find a job, practice English, or access food for their family. Many appreciate the welcoming environment, the opportunity to connect across cultures, and the chance to work alongside passionate staff and fellow volunteers. Most of all, they love knowing that their time directly supports families working hard to build a better future.

What’s going to be happening with your organization in 2025 that you’re really excited about?

We're launching our capital campaign to update our 20+ year old facility.

Let’s leave our readers with a list of ways they can jump in and get involved. Tell us how we can support you!

Volunteer, donate, attend a coffee hour - every other Wednesday at 5:30 pm to practice your Spanish or help native English speakers practice their English.

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Embrace Your Underdog

Confession time. I’ve been feeling overwhelmed lately by the size and entrenched nature of the social challenges facing Atlanta. From food insecurity to mass incarceration, it feels like we are fighting a losing battle. And every new fact I learn simply adds gasoline to the fire:

• Atlanta has the highest income inequality in the nation

• The average age of a homeless person in Atlanta is 9-years old

• In in 4 kids live in food insecure households

• 1 in 3 are functionally illiterate

• And more…

If these facts aren't sobering enough, I’ve also been conducting a listening tour among our nonprofit partners. The focus of our conversation has been about their volunteer needs, but I’ve also asked one simple question: “Do you see things getting better or worse?”  Disappointingly (but not surprisingly), the answer has been “worse”. 

How can we live in the richest country on the planet; the 10th largest city in the country; and be fighting the same problems we were fighting 29-years ago when Hands On Atlanta was founded? There I go again, feeling defeated and overwhelmed. 

Perhaps I just need to flip my thinking and embrace my inner underdog!

If you are like me, you often find yourself rooting for the underdog. They are scrappy, likable, and fun to cheer for. They are movie’s most enjoyable characters. From Ralph Macchio in Karate Kid to Sylvester Stallone in Rocky, I love to see the underdog go up against all odds, stumble, only to come back stronger to win in the end. These characters represent the reality of being human while simultaneously reminding us that the impossible can come true. 

One of my favorite underdog stories of all time is Star Wars. The intergalactic battle between light and dark, between a misfit group of rebels and the goliath force of the Empire. My kids, Noah (12) and Eli (8) are excited to see the next installment – Solo, a Star Wars Story, when it comes out this weekend. 

It reminded me of something important. I love the underdog. It is in my DNA. Good always has to work harder, fail repeatedly, before they are able to find victory…and then, often times it is bittersweet and a fleeting victory. The hero is always on their way to the next battle.

Somehow, thinking about this today, has made me feel stronger. More like the hero and less like Charlie Brown falling for Lucy’s football gag time and time again. If I were casting myself in a movie, I would clearly be the Emilio Estevez in The Mighty Ducks (because Denzel in Remember the Titans would be too on-the nose, right?).

So, if like me, you are feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of the day, I challenge you to embrace your underdog. 

I’d love to hear your ideas. How do you maintain your energy and optimism when you are up against big challenges? Tell us on Facebook or Twitter.

3 tips for creating fresh Social Media content

Hands on Atlanta is excited to partner with Be Consulting on the upcoming Instagram for Nonprofits 101 workshop happening on Wednesday, May 23. Keep reading for tips and tricks on keeping content fresh from Be Consulting co-founders, Christina Edwards and Jessi Ford Bacon. 

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So, you’ve gotten into a rhythm of creating content for your social media strategy and you see that it’s starting to pay off. Congratulations! Now the real work begins. Keeping your community engaged and interested is the key to success, which means continuously producing fresh and unique content.

If you’ve found yourself in a content rut, you're not alone. Here are 3 ways to keep your content fresh and evolving.

1.) Relate to Current Events and Trending Topics

When in doubt, turn to the news for content ideas based on trending topics. Is there a particularly interesting article or new development that you can share your organizations opinion on? Or is there a relevant pop culture reference that could make for a fun meme? Utilizing an existing trend is a great way to keep your audience engaged.

2.) Team Spotlight

Your audience wants to get to know the people behind your organization or business. Spotlighting a team member on your digital marketing platforms is a way to give them a peek into day-to-day operations, or even the hobbies of a familiar face.

3.) Change Your Post Time

If you aren’t able to immediately create a new perspective on your content, there are other variables that can have a fresh impact. By simply switching up the time of day that you choose to post, you can have a completely different outcome on your engagement. You never know – posting content after 9:00 p.m. could attract new community members or even sell a few more tickets to your upcoming event.

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About Be Consulting:

Your company has a mission to inspire change, make a positive impact and leave your community a little better than you found it. Be Consulting can help.

Jessi Ford Bacon and Christina Edwards have each been advising socially conscious organizations on how to deliver their unique messaging through digital marketing for over 10 years. As co-founders of BOFCreative, a full-service social media marketing and PR agency in Atlanta, Jessi and Christina have been working together to create digital marketing success since 2011.