THE CITIZEN BLOG
THE CITIZEN BLOG
2024 High Five Party | Celebrating 1,000,000 volunteers
Welcome to the Hands On Atlanta High Five Party and our 35th birthday celebration
We’re so thrilled to celebrate 35 year of mobilizing the Atlanta community to tackle our city’s most pressing needs. From service trailblazers like Michelle Nunn and Bill Bolling to Mayor Shirley Franklin, Ann Cramer, and so many others, our work exists because of individuals who embody the example of the saying, “it takes a village.”
welcome to the hands on atlanta High Five Party and our 35th birthday celebration
We’re so thrilled to celebrate 35 year of mobilizing the Atlanta community to tackle our city’s most pressing needs, specifically today, (April 18) National High Five Day! From service trailblazers like Michelle Nunn and Bill Bolling to Mayor Shirley Franklin, Ann Cramer, and so many others, our work exists because of individuals who embody the example of the saying, “it takes a village.”
Y’all, our village has grown to 1,000,000!
Volunteering and service is in the DNA of Atlanta. While across the country volunteer numbers are down, here in the “City too busy to hate,” we’re growing. This year we’re going to engage more than 50,000 people, doubling where we were at just 5 years ago. We’ve still got a lot of work to do, as we’re only filling 1/3 spots on our opportunity calendar, but with the time, talent and treasure shared, we can close that gap.
And the awards go to…
Founder’s Award
Gayle Kahn
Presented by: Kent Alexander - Author, Attorney and Co-Founder of Hands On Atlanta
Gayle emerged as a standout/leader from our Discovery program - our Saturday program offered at 10-schools across Metro Atlanta, run by dedicated volunteers and AmeriCorps members. This program is the cornerstone to our educational equity work and the longest-running program.
School Legacy Award
Desmond Bright-Davies
Deja Johnson
Jessika Prayor
Presented by: Dr. Tameka Allen, Dean of Students, Charles Drew Charter School
These outstanding service leaders have made a lasting impact at one of our partner schools through service in our AmeriCorps program. AmeriCorps is basically a domestic peace corps and with over 50 members serving 1,700 hours over the course of the school year, Hands On Atlanta runs one of the largest AmeriCorps programs in the state.
Nonprofit Legacy Award
Jeff Cantin
Presented by: Jadrien Grimes, Community and Civic Engagement Manager at Hands On Atlanta
We’re celebrating Jeff, a volunteer who has really made an impact with one of our 150 nonprofit partners. As part of our Civic Leadership Program, Jeff isn’t your average volunteer --- he represents the best of Atlanta. This year, our Civic Leadership Program participants have completed 225 service projects and engaged over 3,000 volunteers, while also raising $27,000!
1,000,000th Volunteer
Sydney Williams
Presented by: Andre Dickens, the 61st Mayor of the City of Atlanta
We’re thrilled to recognize Sydney, a dedicated volunteer with several of our nonprofit partners and our Discovery program, as our 1,000,000th volunteer. It’s a testament of how far we’ve come since 1989’s humble beginnings, and how our vision for making Atlanta the most engaged and equitable community is being realized.
JOIN THE SPRING FOR SERVICE
We hope you’ve been inspired by the incredible impact presented at our High Five Party! Ride the wave of momentum throughout April and join our Spring for Service. We have even more incredible individuals you can learn about/from, marquee events (including Earth Day, National Volunteer Week and Global Youth Service Day) or to join our peer-to-peer giving campaign.
LASTING IMPACT: MLK DAY 2024, 3 MONTHS LATER
The Hands On Atlanta MLK Days of Service serve as a day ON to give back and create equitable change across Atlanta, and this year helped to push us forward in our mission to mobilize the Atlanta community to tackle our city’s most pressing needs!
Throughout January 11-15, 2024, over 3,000 volunteers supported 50 nonprofits. We recently caught up with a few partners (Atlanta BeltLine, Hope Hill Elementary, and Wren’s Nest) to talk about the impact MLK Days of Service 2024 provided for them.
Keep reading to find out what happens after the buzz and excitement of the King holiday slows and these organizations get back to supporting their communities.
The Hands On Atlanta MLK Days of Service serve as a day ON to give back and create equitable change across Atlanta, and this year helped to push us forward in our mission to mobilize the Atlanta community to tackle our city’s most pressing needs!
Throughout January 11-15, 2024, over 3,000 volunteers supported 50 nonprofits. We recently caught up with a few partners (Atlanta BeltLine, Hope Hill Elementary, and Wren’s Nest) to talk about the impact MLK Days of Service 2024 provided for them.
Keep reading to find out what happens after the buzz and excitement of the King holiday slows and these organizations get back to supporting their communities.
WREN’S NEST BEAUTIFICATION
Wren’s nest is a cultural center, house museum, and National Historic Landmark in Atlanta's West End neighborhood. It is also the home of author and journalist Joel Chandler Harris. Their mission is to preserve storytelling traditions, cultivate the next generation of readers and writers, and celebrating self-expression.
“This project made an incredible difference and helped us complete projects that have been sitting on our to do list for a very long time. Our space is nicer for our staff and guests, and we now have more time to focus on other priority projects. Thank you, Hands On Atlanta! “ ”
Wren’s nest set a goal to beautify their campus and organize the museum’s basement. Volunteers helped build benches and a new shed, landscape, install shelving and execute a neighborhood cleanup. With over 150 volunteers from the community, Salesforce, Fiserv, ADP, Alston & Bird, and our AmeriCorps members engaged they were able to reach their goal.
HOPE HILL ELEMENTARY
Hope Hill Elementary is located in the center of a historical community and adjacent to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Social Change. The school’s namesake is Dr. John Hope, who was the first African-American President of Atlanta University and Morehouse College. Their vision is to empower all scholars to cultivate a sense of wonder and to investigate how the universe works, while applying experiential solutions to real world problems.
Their goal was to have the opportunity for their treehouse to be repaired and fixed for students, and for the volunteers to engage with students. 30 volunteers from Analytic Vision spent their day at Hope Hill making a difference.
“Hands on Atlanta was flexible and able to organize the event around the rain, and they also focused on the needs of the school.”
Through this project they have seen an increase in repeat volunteers, students served, and time for staff to focus on other initiatives.
ATLANTA BELTLINE
The Atlanta BeltLine is a network of public parks, multi-use trails, transit, and affordable housing along a historic 22-mile railroad corridor. Their mission is to build a more equitable and inclusive Atlanta and engaging partners by delivering transformative public infrastructure that enhances mobility, fosters culture, and improves connections to economic opportunity.
Through MLK Days of Service, 40 volunteers served at the Atlanta BeltLine Southside Trail removing litter and junk in two hours from a two-mile segment of the trail.
“Through our collaboration, the BeltLine has seen an increased number of volunteers, and impact made in the community. Going forward to our next MLK Day the BeltLine would like to have more site locations and lead volunteers to continue making a difference.” ”
Through our collaborative efforts of the 2024 MLK Days of Service, our partners have increased their number of volunteers, repeat volunteers, clients served, and overall are on path to more equity across the city.
If your company is interested in creating this kind of lasting impact in our community, we’d love to help! Reach out to our corporate impact team today!
thank you to all of our incredible sponsors
Giving back and fighting economic disparity with Kennedi Harris!
We’re excited to introduce you to Kennedi Harris, a bold, passionate, and ambitious volunteer! ! Her passion for volunteerism shines through in her work as a member of our Civic Leadership Program, and with various organizations throughout Metro Atlanta.
We’re excited to introduce you to Kennedi Harris, a bold, passionate, and ambitious volunteer! ! Her passion for volunteerism shines through in her work as a member of our Civic Leadership Program, and with various organizations throughout Metro Atlanta.
Read more about Kennedi in our interview below!
Which Nonprofit Organization(s) do you volunteer with?
Discovery, Hands on Atlanta, Citizens of Georgia Power, Trees Atlanta, Empty Stocking Fund
What impact areas or pressing needs facing Atlanta do you care about most? Why?
Economic Disparity is a significant issue facing Atlanta today, and it means so much to me because I feel like the negative implications trickle down into many other facets of the city. Atlanta was once a place that was key for Black liberation and success. But the threat of education & income inequality led to growing issues such as: a lack of access to affordable housing, homelessness, and food insecurity. Community engagement is key to filling in the gaps left by this issue. That's why it is so important to engage people who are dedicated to this cause and this city to combat this.
What do you love most about an organization you volunteer with? Why do you volunteer with them?
As an Atlanta native, I love that the organizations I volunteer with are local to the place I call home. It's special to impact the community that you reside in. Just knowing that I'm pouring back into the people and places that raised me, makes all my efforts that much more special.
How has volunteering impacted your personal/professional life?
Volunteering has helped me both professionally and personally by expanding my network. In this program, I've met individuals who work at my company, that I may not have otherwise connected with. I've met people from other companies that I can call on in other industries, and most importantly I've networked with people that I can build personal relationships with, and really call them friends.
What skills have you honed or what have you learned through your experience as a volunteer?
One of the most valuable skills I've learned is leading a volunteer project. As a volunteer in the past, I was accustomed to showing up and getting directions. Through this program, I've learned and developed the skills needed to organize and execute a successful service project.
Can you share a memorable highlight or moment you've experienced that might motivate others to volunteer?
I want to highlight the relationships I've built in the Discovery program with the kids at Love T. Nolan. When you're showing up every other week, the kids really get to know you and the look forward to seeing you at that program. There was one kid in particular that was having an off day when he came to Discovery. He was visibly sad, and I knew that wasn't how he normally behaved. Myself and one of the volunteers who was a regular at Discovery asked him what was wrong, and he really opened to tell us that he was sad that his friend has been killed in a car accident. This was a 4th grader. Building that level of trust with the students, to where they feel like they can process their emotions, and then feel comfortable enough to share is really what showing up every day means.
Why Atlanta? What do you love about this city and/or tell us a bit about some of your favorite Atlanta things - people, places, things to do, etc.
It's home for me! When I think about Atlanta, I think about running through the fountains at Centennial Park. I think about my grandmother's favorite spot to get pancakes was The Beautiful Restaurant on Cascade. I think about taking the MARTA to Screen on the Green in Piedmont Park. I think about birthday parties at Skate Towne and Dixie Land and spending every weekend at Six Flags. I think about how I grew up with Black teachers, a Black dentist & doctor. I love this city for the community it's given me, the pride it's instilled in me, and everything it made me.
“My advice would be to join an organization or find projects that really mean something to you. There are tons of volunteer opportunities between Hands on Atlanta and other organizations. When you’re truly passionate about what you’re dedicating your time to, you can really spark your motivation to volunteer. ”
Volunteering in April? Share where, when and if others can join you or how they can get involved.
The Discovery Program with Hands on Atlanta is hosting its End of Year Pop Up on Saturday, April 13th! This event will celebrate students in our program & provide students with food, ice cream, giveaways, games, a reptile petting zoo, & more.
Please list anything else you think our community should know about you, your volunteer service, or your commitment to Do Something Good!
I have been volunteering with Hands on Atlanta and a plethora of other organizations since I was a little girl. My mother, Daphne, made it her priority to expose me to all types of people and projects, and to ensure that I knew the importance of giving back. To this day, she is the ultimate example of humility, gratitude, and what it truly means to Do Good.
Fighting Hunger on the Weekends with Backpack Buddies of Metro Atlanta!
We’re excited to introduce you to Backpack Buddies of Metro Atlanta, our nonprofit partner fighting food insecurity in our community! They began the 2022-2023 school year feeding roughly 800 children each weekend across 27 schools. With 2 years under their belt, we were excited to catch up with their team to discuss their mission, growth, and impact!
We’re excited to introduce you to Backpack Buddies of Metro Atlanta, our nonprofit partner fighting food insecurity in our community! They began the 2022-2023 school year feeding roughly 800 children each weekend across 27 schools. With 2 years under their belt, we were excited to catch up with their team to discuss their mission, growth, and impact!
Read more about Backpack Buddies in our interview below!
Tell us about your organization – what’s your mission, and what does it mean to the community?
The mission of Backpack Buddies of Metro Atlanta is to provide weekend meals to food-insecure children throughout metro Atlanta, to enhance their mental and physical health as well as their ability to learn. Approximately 200,000 children in the metro go hungry on the weekends, and through the support of countless donors, volunteers, corporate sponsors, partner organizations, and food sources, our service aims to eliminate that.
Can you share some impact stats or comments about the work being done by your organization?
We are a relatively new organization, but we are small and mighty. When starting in the 2022-2023 school year, we were feeding 800 children per week at 27 schools. Now, as we are closing in on the end of the 2023-2024 school year, we have tripled our service to feed nearly 2,500 children per week at over 50 schools. We are just scratching the surface, but our efficient model will make it possible to continue to grow to meet the need. To be efficient, we partner with local religious and civic organizations, who receive food from us to then pack into weekend meal bags and deliver to the schools they adopt every week.
What’s the history of your organization? How and why did it get started?
Here in Atlanta, Backpack Buddies started humbly back in 2017 at one synagogue in Dunwoody, Temple Beth Shalom, serving 10 children per week at Kingsley Elementary School. Our Founder, Ronald Robbins and his wife Samra, then shared the concept with other synagogues and churches in Atlanta. Over the next few years, 19 organizations in total were doing this important work, but were all hitting the same ceiling - they were running out of money sourcing food at retail and running out of space to store the food in their facilities. In early 2022, Backpack Buddies of Metro Atlanta was formed as an umbrella organization for all partners to roll up underneath. This has unlocked tremendous efficiency and growth as we are able to source food inexpensively at scale for everyone, can store it in our warehouse until the organizations need it, and leverage our brand to raise funds to fuel the mission.
“Our growth has to be the biggest highlight. To triple in size in just the first two years of existence is a proof point of our vision and model, as well as a testament to the power of our partners and volunteers.
Expect our service to reach 2,500 children per week by the end of this school year.”
What kind of programming do you offer to the community?
Several groups are impacted and served by our mission.
1. Children in need: Many children who receive free or reduced breakfast and lunch at school during the week do not have enough food at home on the weekend. That's where we come in. Through an efficient hand-off model in partnership with local religious and civic organizations, we are able to provide a weekend's worth of food every Friday to children in need, distributed at their school each week.
2. Local religious and civic organizations: By pairing these organizations with schools who have children in need, provide a turnkey service project that these organizations can use to engage their constituents and positively impact the community around them.
3. Corporations seeking CSR programs: Numerous turnkey team-building and sponsorship opportunities exist for corporations to positively impact the community around them.
4. The community at large: Numerous volunteer opportunities abound for individuals to support our mission and keep our system moving efficiently for maximum impact.
What problem is your organization trying to solve, and can you tell us more about the issue?
Studies show that roughly 1 in 6 children in metro Atlanta is food-insecure. That equates to roughly 200,000 children who do not have enough food to meet the needs of healthy development. Children who are hungry face many challenges, including being more vulnerable to illness, vulnerability, fatigue, stunted growth, and behavioral issues. This leads to a downward spiral that limits the potential of the child. By providing meals on the weekends, we get these kids fed so that they return to school on Monday nourished and ready to learn. Efficacy surveys have shown that student attendance and performance have been improved by participating in our program.
How do volunteers support your mission? What impact do they have on your work? What difference do they make?
Volunteers are involved in many ways. They come to our warehouse on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays in two shifts - 9A-11A and 11A-1P. During these shifts, they pull food orders for our participating organizations and help load them into their vehicles. We also have volunteers involved with expressing gratitude to donors, driving our truck to make food sourcing pickups, supporting event activations, and serving on various committees such as Communications, Food Procurement, Recruitment, and Development. Without volunteers, we would not be able to impact as many children as we do. Of course, there are volunteer opportunities at the organizations that partner with us to get the food to the children.
What’s your biggest highlight or success from the past year?
Our growth has to be the biggest highlight. To triple in size in just the first two years of existence is a proof point of our vision and model, as well as a testament to the power of our partners and volunteers. This is further highlighted by the expansion to a larger facility in the summer of 2023 and the acquisition of our own truck in January 2024. It is wonderful for the community to see that if we are supported, good things will happen.
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?
During a given month, we'll have over 100 volunteers total working our regular warehouse shifts, not to mention several others who are serving on committees, thanking donors, and driving our truck to acquire food. During our regular shifts, volunteers pull orders of food in the warehouse and load them into the vehicles of our partners picking up. This is the core work and our volunteers work collaboratively in a safe, bright, fun environment - even though it is a warehouse! Music is always playing, and we are often sharing a good laugh. Everyone is happy to help, get a good little workout, and always happy to greet those picking up from us.
What types of projects do you offer? What are your biggest projects available, and needs from volunteers? Tell us about a few different offerings.
Volunteering for our regular shifts is the main need. At times, we also welcome larger groups to come for a collaborative service project together. We will recruit volunteers to join us for the Dunwoody 4th of July Parade, walking the route alongside our truck and engaging with attendees about our mission.
Who is your volunteer manager, and what’s their favorite thing about working for your organization?
Director of Operations Jonathan Halitsky leads the warehouse and event activities. An event marketing veteran, Jonathan loves applying his marketing and logistic experience to create a positive volunteer experience for all who work with us. The tangible impact of our mission, the incredible opportunity to build this offering, and an opportunity to connect with other service-oriented individuals really excite him about the work we are doing here.
“Most often, volunteers appreciate the fun environment, the active experience they have, the ease of getting involved, and the logical workflow in the space. ”
What’s going to be happening with your organization in 2024 that you’re really excited about?
We are poised and excited for continued growth. First, we expect our service to reach 2,500 children per week by the end of this school year. Second, we have embarked on a new phase of internal development that will help us lay a foundation for sustainable future expansion. This includes fortifying our staff and focusing on some specific strategic initiatives related to food procurement, fundraising, and growing our network of partner organizations and schools.
Let’s leave our readers with a list of ways they can jump in and get involved. Tell us how we can support you!
Sign up to volunteer through Hands on Atlanta.
Go to our website at www.backpackbuddiesatl.org to learn more.
Please reach out if you are interested in serving on a committee such as Communications, Food Procurement, Development, or Recruitment.
If your company would like to do a food drive on our behalf, please let us know. We have a turnkey program for that.
If your church, synagogue, or civic organization would like to consider partnering with us to adopt a school and provide food each week, please let us know. We have a very easy system for onboarding.
If your company would like to sponsor our mission, we'd love to talk!
A Passion for Volunteering with Spencer Touat
We’re excited to introduce you to Spencer Touat. Spencer has volunteered with Hands On Atlanta since 2017, and served over 900 hours in the community! His dedication to service in Atlanta is truly telling of the words he uses to describe himself: Loyal, Attentive, and Consistent!
We’re excited to introduce you to Spencer Touat. Spencer has volunteered with Hands On Atlanta since 2017, and served over 900 hours in the community! His dedication to service in Atlanta is truly telling of the words he uses to describe himself: Loyal, Attentive, and Consistent!
Read more about Spencer in our interview below!
Which Nonprofit Organization(s) do you volunteer with?
What impact areas or pressing needs facing Atlanta do you care about most? Why?
Arts/Theatre, the arts can be used as a means of expression or therapy for oneself or for others.
What do you love most about an organization you volunteer with? Why do you volunteer with them?
The environment is really positive and the people who perform there are always really nice.
How has volunteering impacted your personal/professional life?
It has helped me come out of my comfort zone and try something new that I might never have considered doing before.
What skills have you honed or what have you learned through your experience as a volunteer?
Communication and leadership, especially when helping volunteers who are new to the program.
Can you share a memorable highlight or moment you've experienced that might motivate others to volunteer?
Being formally recognized as Volunteer of the Year really showed how much my input is valued.
Why Atlanta? What do you love about this city and/or tell us a bit about some of your favorite Atlanta things - people, places, things to do, etc.
I’ve lived in Atlanta all my life and being able to help a local charity make a difference in the community is really wonderful.
What advice would you give to someone who is interested in getting involved with volunteering?
If you want to volunteer somewhere interesting, go for it- you have nothing to lose and you never know what you might find.
Volunteering in April? Share where, when and if others can join you or how they can get involved.
I’m volunteering at Dad’s Garage throughout April, typically on Saturdays.
Please list anything else you think our community should know about you, your volunteer service, or your commitment to Do Something Good!
Your help is always welcome and can always make a difference, no matter how big or how small!
Serving Atl and Fighting Food Insecurity with Chantelle Hawkins
We’re excited to introduce you to Chantelle Hawkins, a member of our Civic Leadership Program! She shines brightly, reminding us of the power of collaboration and commitment to others. Through her words and actions, Chantelle embodies the essence of service, leaving an indelible mark on the community she calls home, here in Atlanta!
We’re excited to introduce you to Chantelle Hawkins, a member of our Civic Leadership Program! She shines brightly, reminding us of the power of collaboration and commitment to others. Through her words and actions, Chantelle embodies the essence of service, leaving an indelible mark on the community she calls home, here in Atlanta!
These are the words Chantelle chooses to describe herself.
They form the backbone of her commitment to making a difference, not just in her professional role but also in the lives of those who need it the most.
Read more about Chantelle in our interview below!
Which Nonprofit Organization(s) do you volunteer with?
Giving Hands Food Pantry
What impact areas or pressing needs facing Atlanta do you care about most? Why?
Food insecurities-is a very basic human need that every girl, boy, woman and man should have access to. Growing up, I never knew that having more than enough food or eating out was a luxury for me and my family. Although, I have never been without food, when life got hard, I found peace in serving others whether it was under the bridge or in a food pantry. Serving others, building allies, and leveraging my resources for a greater impact is magical. This fuels me to keep going and to do more.
What do you love most about an organization you volunteer with? Why do you volunteer with them?
I love that Giving Hands Food Pantry is a pillar in the community that provides easy access and offers “healthy” food resources to families in need. It is my pleasure to volunteer with GHF, as their mission, values and goals align with my hearts passion which is to ensure that we all have access to healthy foods.
“Serving others, building allies, and leveraging my resources for a greater impact is magical. This fuels me to keep going and to do more.” ”
How has volunteering impacted your personal/professional life?
It has exposed me to other like-minded passionate individuals who continue to build my network. Volunteering and serving others definitely esteem me and keeps me grounded and grateful.
What skills have you honed or what have you learned through your experience as a volunteer?
My project management skills have been sharpened. Over the years I have learned it’s a privilege to serve. Another valuable lesson is principles over personalities, it’s about the work, it’s not personal.
Can you share a memorable highlight or moment you've experienced that might motivate others to volunteer?
In March there was a rainy day and there were 30+ volunteers; it was beautiful. The mobile pantry operates outside rain or shine. The smiles on the faces of the families that drove through and the countless messages of how thankful they were that we didn’t allow rain to stop us, warmed my heart. One patron asked what we had and when we mentioned sweet potatoes and cabbage she started dancing in her seat with excitement, anticipating the meal she was going to prepare for her family.
Why Atlanta? What do you love about this city and/or tell us a bit about some of your favorite Atlanta things - people, places, things to do, etc.
I came to Atlanta for work and decided to make this home. There is a synergy in this city that is unparalleled. The culture, creativity, collaboration and success are inspiring. Outside of my passion for volunteering I love the arts- plays at True Colors Theater, Broadway shows at the Fox Theater, concerts at an amphitheater or State Farm. I also believe in self-care, visiting Chateau Elan or being in nature at one of the many parks or walking trails. Direct flights to just about anywhere in the country. I could on why not Atlanta.
What advice would you give to someone who is interested in getting involved with volunteering?
Just do it! I always get more from the experience than I give. If you don’t know your passion volunteerism is a great way to discovering it.
Volunteering in April? Share where, when and if others can join you or how they can get involved.
Giving Hands Mobile Food Pantry the 2nd Saturday of each month from 8a-12p. April 13, 2024, will be the next opportunity to serve. Volunteers can register through Hands On Atlanta, GHFP website, or simply show up, we would love to have you. ( 2160 Church St. Covington, GA )
Please list anything else you think our community should know about you, your volunteer service, or your commitment to Do Something Good!
I am a servant leader that is fortunate to do work that is meaningful both professionally and personally. I have served and /or supported other like-minded organizations such as the United Way, CASA, The Boys & Girls, KABOOM, and Children Restoration Network of Atlanta. In addition, I am an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated, NAHAM, and Junior League of Dekalb County.
AmeriCorps Spotlight: Myles Griffin
We are so excited to introduce you to this month’s AmeriCorps Member Spotlight, Myles Griffin! Myles is an academic tutor at Young Middle School, whose journey goes beyond the surface of service.
Myle’s joined AmeriCorps because he loves serving the community. He stated “the opportunity to help my local community is more than just a noble cause; it is a character-building experience that I wholeheartedly embrace. There's a unique feeling that comes with building bonds while working towards something greater than ourselves."
Delving into the day-to-day experiences, Myles expressed a deep appreciation for his role in working with students. He hopes to better understand the metro school system and the confidence to act when help is needed. What he enjoys most is how much the students love chess and their interest in Esports. Witnessing their commitment to something as complex as these activities has been truly fascinating in an academic setting.
“Over time, I’ve seen students undergo tremendous transformations, emerging from their shells and forming new friendships, all stemming from a shared interest.”
Outside of the AmeriCorps duties, Myles leads a dynamic life filled with various passions. For fun, he enjoys competing in tournaments, coding software, creating art, playing my saxophone, and spending time with friends. He envisions a future filled with entrepreneurial and philanthropic endeavors. In five years, he wants to either own a software business or running a non-profit organization.
Reflecting on what he loves most about Atlanta, Myles shares that this is his first time living in an area where the population is predominantly Black and feels empowered and inspired. He has learned a lot about himself, and feels like its genuinely made him a better person overall.
We appreciate Myle’s love for learning, ambition, and relentless effort to impact and transform the power of service.
Are you interested in learning more about a year of service through the Hands On Atlanta AmeriCorps program? Click here to see all the program benefits, what you’ll do and to start your application for the 2024-25 term.
Unveiling Unsung Heroes: AmeriCorps Week Celebrates Service Champions Making a Difference
Join us as we salute the unsung heroes of the 2024 edition of AmeriCorps Week! From March 10-16, we celebrated those who embody the true spirit of service - our AmeriCorps Members! It's not just a tribute; it's a rallying cry for others to join the movement and make a difference in communities nationwide. Let’s take a look back at some of the action this past week…
Monnica Taylor, an AmeriCorps member serving at Kindezi at Gideons, achieved a significant milestone by being inducted into CASA. CASA, or Court Appointed Special Advocates, are volunteers who advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children in the foster care system. Monnica's dedication to serving her community led her to this momentous achievement, marking a new chapter in her journey of making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children.
Meanwhile, Nefertiti Royale, another AmeriCorps member stationed at Brookview Elementary, teamed up with Communities in Schools to tackle the literacy pillar. She captivated Brookview Elementary students by reading her self-published book, "Dream with Diosa," while also providing them with space-themed keychains, bookmarks, and writing utensils. “Open a book, open a mind” is a motto that guides Nefertiti’s passion for tackling literacy challenges amongst children. Nefertiti's commitment to fostering a love for reading among children exemplifies the transformative power of education and imagination.
Deja Johnson, serving at Drew Charter's Senior Academy, demonstrated innovative ways to promote wellness and positivity within the AmeriCorps community. During Esprit de Corps, Deja led a plant therapy session, utilizing plant propagations to offer each member a tangible reminder of their purpose and motivation. Additionally, she organized a service project with her school's mentoring group to provide meals for the homeless, showcasing the ripple effect of service within the community.
These stories underscore the indispensable role that AmeriCorps members play in uplifting communities and empowering individuals. Through their dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to service, they embody the core values of AmeriCorps Week: Recognize, Promote, and Engage. AmeriCorps Week is not just a celebration of past achievements but a reminder of the ongoing efforts to build a brighter, more inclusive future for all. Let us salute these remarkable individuals who continue to push the boundaries of service and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.
Are you interested in learning more about a year of service through the Hands On Atlanta AmeriCorps program? Click here to see all the program benefits, what you’ll do and to start your application for the 2024-25 term.