Snapper Freeman is a man on a mission

Snapper Freeman is a man with a heart for volunteering and a passion for making a difference. Snapper proudly serves as a 2023 Hands On Atlanta Civic Fellow, leading projects with their Discovery program. He’s also the Community Relationship Manager for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, the founder of Community Service Redirect, and the Chair of the Fan Ambassador Program for the Chick fil-A Peach Bowl.

But what impact areas or pressing needs facing Atlanta does Snapper care about most? Atlanta's youth and pancreatic cancer. Snapper's work has taken him into underserved communities where he has seen the disadvantages youth experience. He firmly believes that there is no reason why these youth shouldn't have the opportunities in life that everyone else does. This led him to create Community Service Redirect, which recognizes and rewards students in Clayton County for making a positive impact in their community.

But Snapper's passion doesn't stop there. He is also committed to fighting pancreatic cancer, which is a disease that only has a 12% five-year survival rate. "If we have 100 people in the room and ask 88 to leave, those 12 people left would be representative of our five-year survival rate," he explains. He started volunteering with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network after seeing one of his mentors, a perfectly healthy track coach, pass away from the disease in less than three months. Snapper believes that more work needs to be done to raise awareness about pancreatic cancer and to find a cure.

“Volunteering introduced an industry and world to me that I did not know existed. It is work I believe in and can see is needed,””

— Snapper Freeman

So, what does Snapper love most about the organizations he volunteers with? "The organizations I volunteer with are actively making a difference in our communities. You are able to see how your work translates and actually helps people in a positive way," he says.

Volunteering has had a significant impact on Snapper's personal and professional life. "Volunteering introduced an industry and world to me that I did not know existed. It is work I believe in and can see is needed," he shares. Through his experience as a volunteer, Snapper has honed his skills in servant leadership. He believes that you do not always need to be in charge or have a title to make a difference.

When asked to share a memorable moment from his volunteering experience, Snapper recalls a Saturday afternoon at Usher Collier's Discovery Program. "A parent pulled into the parking lot, with tires screeching like something out of a movie. The student had gotten on the bus to get to school, and their older sibling didn't relay the message. Could the parent really be upset? Their kid was coming to school on a Saturday, and they said they would get there whether their parent got up to take them or not. This was a reminder that these students could be anywhere in the world, doing anything at all, but they wanted to be at school on a Saturday. If you get a chance, please make sure to volunteer with the Discovery program!"

“I believe if we’re going to change the world, it starts with changing your community.””

— Snapper Freeman

When asked why Atlanta, Snapper explains that although he was born and raised in Houston, Atlanta has become home. "Atlanta has a culture and swag that others want to replicate. When you see people Swag Surfin' across the country, it's because they wish they were in the A!" he jokes.

So, what advice does Snapper have for someone who is interested in getting involved with volunteering? "Make an impact. Big or small, make an impact. Something you consider very small or meaningless could mean the world to another, and you never know how far your help goes. You always hear ‘one person can change the world’, but I believe if we're going to change the world, it starts with changing your community. Changing our community is how we change the world.

You can volunteer alongside Snapper on April 29th at PurpleStride Atlanta to help raise awareness for Pancreatic Cancer.

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Feeling inspired by Snapper's amazing volunteer work?

You can help others like him continue to make a positive impact in our community by making a donation to Hands On Atlanta, where every $1 donated turns into $6 of economic impact. Click here to donate now.

Pam Sidhi on Making Service Fun for the Whole Family

Today, we're shining a light on Pam Sidhi, a 2023 Hands On Atlanta Civic Fellow and local volunteer who is dedicated to making a difference in her city!

Pam is a devoted volunteer who spends her free time helping out with a variety of organizations, including Hands On Atlanta, Scouting, Mustang Volunteer Support, Atlanta Food Bank, St. Paul Vincent Thrift Store & Friends of Disabled Adults and Children (FODAC). When we asked Pam about the impact areas or pressing needs facing Atlanta that she cares about most, she shared that it's all about creating communities that work for all ages and abilities.

"As a legal immigrant, I have witnessed the need for a community to support the growing need for food insecurity and improve educational outcomes," she explained.

Pam's passion for volunteering is palpable, and she loves partnering with nonprofits that provide safety and security for the volunteers who lead or participate as individuals. "For example, as a stay-at-home mom, I can experience volunteering in organizations that are welcoming and open to ideas that I share which have improved the experience. I have not felt I could not go alone to make the change," she shared.

“I learned that you need a mind and a heart with 4 hours a week to make a change...” ”

— Pam Sidhi

Volunteering has impacted Pam's personal and professional life in so many positive ways. It's allowed her to see the challenges facing the community and work alongside other like-minded volunteers to make a difference. "I learned that you need a mind and a heart with 4 hours a week to make a change. I’m also very proud to serve along with my little one growing up to be a servant leader in the community," she shared.

When asked to share a memorable highlight or moment from her volunteering experience, Pam had an inspiring story to tell. "I believe that age does not matter when you volunteer. My experience was seeing my little one not waste food after we visited the Atlanta Community Food Bank. We plan to return to all the nonprofits we volunteered for last year," she said.

So, what advice does Pam have for others who are interested in getting involved with volunteering? "Give it a try. Please do not give up on volunteering for one bitter person who attended the event. You are needed. A huge 'Thank You' if you show up for an event because you made a difference," she added.

Pam is currently helping with a food pantry distribution for Clarkson Community Center on April 8th. This project is full, but if you're interested in supporting, you can find the Amazon wishlist to contribute here. You can also visit the Hands On Atlanta website and sign up for the next event in May.

As we wrap up our chat with Pam, we asked her why she loves Atlanta and some of her favorite things about the city. "Atlanta - the City of Coke and the Olympic city. Of course, for me, my little one was born here. We have lived here for fourteen years, evolving into a melting pot of the south. We have seen it grow and learned to adapt to the ever-changing world," she shared.

Finally, Pam wants to remind everyone that it's her birthday on April 7th, and she encourages the community to take notice of the good work that people are doing to help each other during these challenging times. "We are recovering from the pandemic and have lost so many lives. It would be great if you smiled as you passed by or if you noticed someone doing a good deed - please say, 'Good work'."

Happy birthday, Pam!

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Feeling inspired by Pam's amazing volunteer work?

You can help others like her continue to make a positive impact in our community by making a donation to Hands On Atlanta, where every $1 donated turns into $6 of economic impact. Click here to donate now.

Tracy Dansby On the Power of Love

Tracy Dansby is a 2023 Hands On Atlanta Civic Fellow and Georgia Peach who loves serving the community both locally and globally. She is impactful and passionate towards all things for the "Beloved Community" and volunteerism.  Tracy regularly serves with Hands On Atlanta, Sickle Cell Foundation of Georgia, Reflections of Trinity and in her Grove Park community. Last year, Tracy served over 200 hours and is on track to surpass that mark this year!

In this spotlight, Tracy discusses the pressing needs facing Atlanta, why she volunteers with the Sickle Cell Foundation of Georgia, and how volunteering has impacted her life.

Tracy is particularly passionate about Atlanta's youth and the urgent need to support them. She says, "We are ‘losing our youth,' figuratively and literally." Tracy highlights the fact that many children in Atlanta don't have access to basic necessities such as food, clothing, shelter, and water. "We have children in the ATL waking up every day, rushing to schools for food because the last meal eaten was at school," she explains. Tracy is deeply committed to addressing this issue by volunteering and donating to organizations that combat food insecurity.

Tracy is also a passionate advocate for the Sickle Cell Foundation of Georgia (SCFG), where she volunteers regularly. Her oldest daughter was born with sickle cell trait, and Tracy says that the foundation played an essential role in calming her fears and providing classes and resources that helped her family on their journey. She praises the foundation for advocating, investing, and fighting to help individuals living with sickle cell disease live as normal a life as possible. Tracy says, "I will continually volunteer with SCFG because of their love for kids dealing with this health crisis and the community."

“To a person in need, there is nothing greater than the power of LOVE.””

— Tracy Dansby

Volunteering has had a significant impact on Tracy's life. She describes it as her "best side hustle, the gift that keeps on giving." Tracy says that volunteering keeps her humble, creative, eager, energetic, grounded, and rooted. She says it challenges her, holds her accountable, and makes her happy.

When asked about advice for anyone interested in getting started in service, Tracy shared her guiding principles derived from Dr. King, who said, “Everybody can be great because everybody can serve… and if I can help somebody as I pass along, if I can cheer somebody with a word or song, if I can show somebody, he’s living wrong, then my living will not be in vain.”

Through her experience as a volunteer, Tracy agrees with Mother Teresa, "..for the smile is the beginning of love." Tracy says, "To a person in need, there is nothing greater than the power of love." Tracy has honed her skills in empathy, compassion, and understanding. She has also learned how to work collaboratively with others to achieve common goals.

“Atlanta, the city where we swag different and brag different. That’s my city!””

— Tracy Dansby

On Atlanta, well, she says, “I love this city because we are the most influential city in the United States, and we embrace and LOVE everybody. Adding, “Atlanta, the city where we swag different and brag different. That’s my city!”

You can harness your own power of love and join Tracy on April 22nd for a fun project at Reflections of Trinity called, Smiles on Jelly Bean Day!

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Feeling inspired by Tracy's amazing volunteer work?

You can help others like her continue to make a positive impact in our community by making a donation to Hands On Atlanta, where every $1 donated turns into $6 of economic impact. Click here to donate now.

Volunteers are Improving Patient Recovery with Grady Food As Medicine

Through Hands On Atlanta’s special partnership with the Atlanta Community Food Bank, we’re able to support some really strong nonprofits focused on food insecurity. While many organizations focus on keeping bellies full, one special partner – Grady Food As Medicine – is taking a different approach. Their unique program is designed to ensure patients with chronic illnesses have their nutritional needs met, in an affordable way, which is absolutely crucial to their recovery.

We got to chat with Jasmynne Blacks, Food Pharmacy Manager of the Grady Food As Medicine program, to learn more about how they’re helping patients recover in a holistic way, and how volunteers keep the program up and running.

Sign up here to volunteer + support Grady’s Food As Medicine program.

Claire, Hands On Atlanta: Serving with the Grady Food as Medicine program has been a favorite of our volunteers since you all became a Hands On Atlanta partner a couple of years ago. But this is my first time visiting you in person! What’s the story here, where are we?

Jasmynne, Grady Food As Medicine: This is the Jesse Hill Market! This was a vision that Grady employees had, for the space to become a place of wellness for both patients and employees. We realized that about 50% of our patients are food insecure. Meaning, they’re struggling with access to food, especially fresh produce. And with our background in nutrition, we understand the need for patients to have access to this food, and also the resources and knowledge. Patients are referred to us from Main Grady, after being screened for food insecurity + a few chronic illnesses that would qualify them for participation in the year-long program. We don’t want to just provide food and expect them to figure the nutritional aspects out on their own, we want to give them tools + resources to be successful. Patients attend cooking classes, nutrition classes and also pick up from the Food Pharmacy. During the classes, they learn how to cook to produce and how to become an advocate for themselves – learning their numbers and how to set goals.

“We don’t want to just provide food, and expect them to figure the nutritional aspects out on their own.”

Claire: ‘Prescribing food’ seems like a natural compliment to prescribing medicine and a physical therapy routine, but I haven’t heard of it before. How has it made an impact on patients? Can you speak to results or recovery rates at this point?

Jasmynne: Yes, it’s huge! This is what keeps us going, hearing patient stories. Tomorrow we actually have a graduation! It’s a time to celebrate patients who made a year long commitment to changing their life. Many of them are breaking habits they’ve had for 50, 60 years. We measure things like A1C – certain rates lead to a lot of complications like heart disease, kidney disease and other risk factors. We’ve seen this go down from 10.5 to 5.5. We’ve seen patients be able to go off blood pressure medications. Some have been able to reduce insulin, as their blood sugar goes down. Classes can get emotional as patients reflect back on where they started. Many patients and employees are not just changing their own diet habits, but also those of their families. It’s a big impact.

Claire: You all need about 160 volunteers per month to manage distributions across 4 locations in the city, right? What’s the experience like for a volunteer?

Jasmynne: It’s our 3rd year of running this program, and this program would not run without volunteers. We really mean it! Hands on Atlanta has been pivotal in our program continuing to run, and all volunteer opportunities can be found here. Here at Jesse Hill, we’ve got the Food Pharmacy, and at neighboring clinics we’ve got the Fresh Food Carts. The Fresh Food Carts are massive food distributions in one day, through a partnership with the Atlanta Community Food Bank. These are monthly, at Asa Yancey, Brookhaven, and Ponce – we get lots of produce, and our volunteers are bagging and distributing food. The Food Pharmacy is similar, but food is distributed multiple days weekly. We put together about 150 bags of food every Wednesday. We have fun in the Food Pharmacy, and keep the energy up with a great playlist! Grady employees help out here a lot, too. We currently have about 500 patients in the program, who pick up weekly!, but we’re only a staff of 5, so volunteers are so crucial.

Claire: Oh, wow. And then on top of that, you all also have the Teaching Kitchen here at the Jesse Hill Market.

Jasmynne: The Teaching Kitchen is where patients take classes – and they correlate with available produce at the Food Pharmacy and Fresh Food Carts. Patients get a demonstration and then they’re actually cooking on their own skillet, learning about seasonings and ingredients and modifications. Volunteers are super interactive with patients here, and there’s a required Orientation first. Sometimes there’s 10-15 patients in a class, and it can be a lot for our one teacher to ensure everyone is following along and being safe – so volunteers make a big impact at classes.

Claire: Anything exciting on the horizon for Grady Food As Medicine?

Jasmynne: We’re working on expanding the program! We really want to zone in more on food insecure patients and employees, even those who aren’t affected by the chronic illnesses we’re currently working with.

Claire: Last question… what’s your favorite recipe taught in the Teaching Kitchen?

Jasmynne: Black bean brownies! We were not believers, but then we tried it! They are SO good!

Kat Reynolds: Champion of Collaboration and Volunteerism

Kat Reynolds is a champion for solving local issues in her community and beyond by leveraging unique collaborations between corporations and nonprofits. She has devoted her work to uplifting children’s educations and future careers, providing resources to those suffering from food insecurity and general hardship, gathering funds and supplies to donate to communities experiencing natural disasters, tending to environmental and sustainability efforts, and empowering women in their careers, under harsh conditions or battling unforeseen circumstances.

Her passion for volunteerism shines through in her work with various organizations, including the Junior League of Atlanta, Corporate Volunteer Council, Junior Achievement of Georgia, Girl Scouts of Greater ATL, and Trees Atlanta. As Reynolds explains, "There is an opportunity for every person to give something of themselves - I hope (if you haven't already) that you find your light bulb moment!"

Teaming up with these groups, she turns community sponsorships into meaningful relationships that will last a lifetime. Reynolds says, "With Trees Atlanta, I can see my impact, and get a great workout at the same time! With Junior League, I have access to inspiring professional mentors and can learn about many nonprofits in the Atlanta community."

“Getting in the weeds, getting your hands dirty, being a servant leader is the BEST way to learn what your city/community needs to enhance your neighbors’ lives...” ”

— Kat Reynolds

Through thought leadership around skill-based volunteerism, Reynolds enabled Veritiv to work with the Girl Scouts to design the Cookie Rally box design to help launch their latest cookie, thinking "outside the box" to spearhead nonprofit capacity building.

Reynolds' dedication to social impact and community engagement is not new. Before her role at Veritiv, she served as Mercedes-Benz USA’s Corporate Social Responsibility Manager. She implemented the Give Back employee program and doubled the company’s volunteer time through hours given, Matching Gifts donated, and Executive Management skills-based community engagement. One of her notable projects was the Girls Have No Limits campaign, which intended to break down gender stereotypes through female mentorship. Her efforts earned Atlanta Public Schools 2021 Corporate Partner of the Year for Mercedes-Benz.

When asked about the impact areas or pressing needs facing Atlanta that she cares about most, Reynolds shares, "Access to healthcare for women. Women need to not only have affordable access to healthcare, but the flexibility from workplaces to access appointments, and then also respect and empathy from the healthcare system for our unique needs."

“Atlanta didn’t birth me, but it raised me... I love the diversity of people, food, entertainment, neighborhoods, music, and advocacy work. Atlanta truly does influence everything.””

— Kat Reynolds

For Reynolds, volunteering has impacted her personal and professional life in profound ways. "I have built friendships and relationships I otherwise never would have started," she says. "Getting in the weeds, getting your hands dirty, being a servant leader is the BEST way to learn what your city/community needs to enhance your neighbors' lives. Professionally, I have mentors from interns to Csuite that I can call upon for advice, share kudos, and bounce ideas off of. It's a tremendous gift to serve with like-minded people and have them on your 'Personal Board' as a result."

Reynolds' advice for those interested in getting involved with volunteering is simple: "First, think of a topic you are passionate about. Research your local volunteer organizations that support that issue. Attend a volunteer fair or "speed dating" for volunteers. Volunteer on a one-time basis and see what comes of it. Finally, don't forget to thank those who supported you along the way!"

In the end, Reynolds' love for Atlanta shines through. "Atlanta didn't birth me, but it raised me," she says. "I love the diversity of people, food, entertainment, neighborhoods, music, and advocacy work. Atlanta truly does influence everything. I want to be a part of it!"

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Feeling inspired by Kat's amazing volunteer work?

You can help others like her continue to make a positive impact in our community by making a donation to Hands On Atlanta, where every $1 donated turns into $6 of economic impact. Click here to donate now.

Andre Person on the Powers of Volunteering

When it comes to giving back to the community, Atlanta resident Andre Person, is a leader and an inspiration. Andre is a member of the 2023 Hands On Atlanta Civic Leadership Program and the president of Georgia Power’s local volunteer organization, Citizens of Georgia Power. He likes focusing on issues that are close to his heart, such as food insecurity and beautification projects. In this Volunteer Spotlight, he shares his thoughts on volunteering, leadership, and the joy of making a difference.

"I care deeply about food insecurity," Andre says. "I want to be sure our youth and their families are able to eat. Having a full stomach impacts many areas of life. Motivation in school, energy to be outside, helps battle disease among other things." He is also passionate about beautification projects, as he believes they inspire people to improve their surroundings in small ways and create a sense of community pride.

One of the organizations that Andre volunteers with, Citizens of Metro East, holds a special place in his heart. "This organization has allowed me to serve my community in so many different ways," he says. "We have impacted so many lives and has brought our group so much joy."

“Impacting people’s lives has helped me grow and taught me the importance of valuing the people around me and showing them how helping others can fill you in ways you could not imagine.””

— Andre Person

Through his volunteer work, Andre has experienced personal and professional growth. "It has truly brought fulfillment to my life," he shares. "Impacting people’s lives has helped me grow and taught me the importance of valuing the people around me and showing them how helping others can fill you in ways you could not imagine." He has honed his leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, which have been invaluable in both his personal and professional life.

One of the most rewarding experiences for Andre is working with the K-5 students through the Hands On Atlanta Discovery program. "As most kids are not happy to be at school learning on a Saturday, the best feeling in the world is when they leave with a huge smile and showing off all their projects. When they give me a hug or a high five, it makes me feel great."

When asked what advice he would give to someone who wants to volunteer, Andre says, "Think about what you love to do and you will find a way to volunteer in that area. If you love cooking, go to a soup kitchen. Love art, put on a free art class. Love gardening, start a free community garden. And just remember Rome wasn’t built in a day. It will take time for your vision to grow. Just keep building!"

“If you love cooking, go to a soup kitchen. Love art, put on a free art class. Love gardening, start a free community garden. And just remember Rome wasn’t built in a day. It will take time for your vision to grow. Just keep building!””

— Andre Person

As for his favorite things about Atlanta, Andre loves the city's vibrant culture and diversity. "One of my favorite places is Ponce City Market, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, Krog St. Market, Little 5, and so many other places," he shares.

If you're interested in volunteering with Andre, he'll be working with Trees Atlanta planting trees along the Beltline and with Friends of Refugees in Clarkston, GA, at their hospitality house. And his parting words of wisdom for anyone who wants to make a difference? "Always remember to impact someone’s life every day. Your kindness and generosity will change a life and may motivate them to change another life."

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Feeling inspired by Andre's amazing volunteer work?

You can help others like him continue to make a positive impact in our community by making a donation to Hands On Atlanta, where every $1 donated turns into $6 of economic impact. Click here to donate now.

Pajamas, Books, and Sleep Equity: Volunteers Creating Healthy Habits with Pajama Program

Standing in the Pajama Program space feels like being at sleepover at a Barnes and Noble – a true haven for a child’s imagination. Here, program staff and volunteers help children and families establish their nighttime routines, including bedtime stories; the (proven) theory being that how a child performs in the classroom is actually determined the night before, in how well they sleep.

Hands On Atlanta too has a special focus on ensuring all students get the most out of their education, and is proud to partner with Pajama Program in this work. A conversation with Douna Hunter, Director of Programs at Pajama Program, reveals how their organization is improving educational outcomes for kids in Atlanta, and how you can help them as a volunteer.

TL;DR – Sign up here to volunteer as a reader.

Claire, Hands On Atlanta: Many of us think the Pajama Program is about books and jammies, but it’s really about a much larger concept – sleep equity. Can you talk to us about the importance of a good nighttime routine and what that can mean for a child?

Douna, Pajama Program: Our mission is to promote equitable access to sleep, so all children can thrive. Sleep is up there with exercise and nutrition when it comes to health, but for some reason it just doesn’t get talked about much. Without that foundation of sleep, it’s so much more difficult for students to learn and to turn short term memories into long term memories. It’s easy to think: ‘sleep, everybody does it, what’s the big deal?’ but we’re notoriously sleep deprived in this country. We hear all the time, kids are coming to school sleepy – even the Pre-K kids. Science tells us that parents just don’t know how many hours their kids really need. Healthy sleep starts with a good nighttime routine. We have a triangle of support: programming for students when they visit the center, resources and workshops for parents, and professional development for early educators.

“It’s easy to think: ‘sleep, everybody does it, what’s the big deal?’ but we’re notoriously sleep deprived in this country. ”

Claire: Well, that’s how you truly tackle a problem, head on… by providing support at every level. When the kids visit, they must just love being in this space. It feels like being at a sleepover.

Douna: Our space is magical, it’s full of bright colors and lovely books that are representative of the children that we serve in this community. It’s also a space for volunteers to share those stories with the children that visit that center. A focus of ours is on creating ‘caring connections’. And so that’s how we use our space and our volunteers, in promoting that access – giving our caregivers and community partners resources, like information, pajamas and books.

Claire: I love that concept – because the value of reading is so much more than learning what’s written in the book, it’s about a shared experience. So how do volunteers help with that?

Douna: Volunteers come in and read stories with the kids. Those ‘caring connections’, and the impact of sharing, is what we’re going for. So, for us, it’s not about teaching grammar. We have classrooms come in with 25 kids, and it’s difficult for their one teacher to connect with each one of those children, full time. So here, we can create those connections, and we can teach them about healthy routine. Sharing stories at night is a very important to that routine. It creates space for those connections and preparing the brain for dreams and creativity to happen, and healthy sleep to take place. We want to ensure they’re turning off those devices! Volunteers demonstrate that here. And, caring connections with those outside of their family and caregivers, promotes healthy relationship building with others.

“ Those ‘caring connections’, and the impact of sharing, is what we’re going for. ”

Claire: Pajama Program focuses on kids K-2, and that’s a critical age for learning. They’re absorbing everything around them. Tell us more about the kiddos!

Douna: Pajama Program is a partner of Atlanta Public Schools as well as several county school districts, and kids get to our center on field trips. We see around 3000 kids per year. When we first opened in Atlanta, nearly 6 years ago!, we started getting in touch with local districts. Through mostly word of mouth, people began to realize this is a wonderful, free field trip for students that makes a big difference for the kids. We know a lot of students are going to school very tired, and Pajama Program hopes to change that.

Claire: I heard that there was a student who said this was a better field trip than the Aquarium (!) so the kids must really love coming here, huh? It’s easy to see why!

Douna: YES! He said ‘This is the best day of my life!’ You know, kids who are 6 and 7 can be a little extra and we love it. I think it feels more personal when the kids come in and see the bright colors and the bean bags and the tents and they think, ‘Wow, what is this place? What’s going to happen?’ and they feel the energy and the love here.

Claire: I’ve had a lot of interest from volunteers to support you all. What can we do?

Douna: First – give your time! Come to the center and read, or help fold pajamas. There’s always work! Nonprofits are famous for having a lot of needs, especially smaller organizations like us. The second is donations – we see around 3000 children a year, and each child leaves with a new set of pajamas and a book. Volunteers can donate these or host a drive – we particularly need sizes 6-12 in pajamas. And lastly, let’s talk more about sleep! Parents, find resources on our website, and ask your kid’s schools how they’re talking about sleep.

Kim Harrison is Making a Difference in Her Community, One Pantry at a Time

As a member of the McCleskey-East Cobb YMCA Board for over 8 years, Kim Harrison has played an integral role in setting up the school pantry at Brumby Elementary, serving over 300 families a week. Kim is a true community hero, and her enthusiasm for volunteering is contagious.

When asked her about her work, she spoke passionately about the impact areas facing Atlanta, especially food insecurity. "Food is essential to life. To know that many people go to bed hungry in this country is hard to swallow," she said.

Kim's dedication to the YMCA is evident in the way she talks about the organization. "They strive to form partnerships to help make a difference. They are the backbone of our community. We truly saw how strong the YMCA was in how they came through during the pandemic. They were there making sure our community had food," she said.

As for how volunteering has impacted her personal and professional life, Kim shared, "It has given me purpose. I look for ways we can continue to make an impact in our community."

“Food is essential to life. To know that many people go to bed hungry in this country is hard to swallow.””

— Kim Harrison

Kim is a natural leader who excels at bringing people together. "I truly love working with volunteers in our community and helping them find ways they can make an impact. Matching their skills where they're needed most is important to me," she said.

When asked Kim to share a memorable moment from her volunteering experience, she told us about the relationships she's built with the families at the pantry. "How we look forward to seeing each other and checking in. These relationships are important to me and they truly mean something."

Kim's love for Atlanta and the community is infectious. "We are a community. So many come together to make Marietta better. I love the school system and working with those in the school. This includes the schools in both Marietta City and Cobb County. I love our sports teams and how they work to make an impact in our community," she said.

If you're interested in getting involved with volunteering, Kim has some advice for you. "Decide what area you're interested in. Is it food insecurity? Is it reading development? From there, look for organizations you've heard are active in your community. There are many YMCA's around Atlanta. That's a great place to start."

“I’m so impressed by the volunteers I work with and their passion to serve. I continually learn from them and how best to serve.””

— Kim Harrison

And if you're interested in volunteering in April, Kim has some exciting news. "We're starting a new food pantry in Marietta at Sawyer Road Elementary. This is a partnership with McCleskey YMCA, Sawyer Road/Marietta City Schools, The Atlanta Food Bank, Porch Marietta, Faith Lutheran, Mt. Paran North, and Mt. Zion UMC. We'd love to have our community help by either aiding us with food collections or volunteering on pantry day."

In closing, Kim wants everyone to know that she's just one of many volunteers in the community. "I'm so impressed by the volunteers I work with and their passion to serve. I continually learn from them and how best to serve."

So what are you waiting for? Get out there and volunteer! As Kim says, "Let's all make an impact in our community together."

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Feeling inspired by Kim's amazing volunteer work?

You can help others like her continue to make a positive impact in our community by making a donation to Hands On Atlanta, where every $1 donated turns into $6 of economic impact. Click here to donate now.