THE CITIZEN BLOG
THE CITIZEN BLOG
Meet AmeriCorps Member Desmond Bright-Davies
Meet Desmond Bright-Davies, a volunteer, army veteran, and Social Emotional Learning Coach at Drew Charter School. While new to Atlanta, Desmond is creating an impact and in April was awarded the School Legacy Award for his impact at Drew Charter School.
Get to know Desmond, and all the good he is doing in our community!
Meet Desmond Bright-Davies, a volunteer, army veteran, and Social Emotional Learning Coach at Drew Charter School. While new to Atlanta, Desmond is creating an impact and in April was awarded the School Legacy Award for his impact at Drew Charter School.
Get to know Desmond, and all the good he is doing in our community!
What impact areas or pressing needs facing Atlanta do you care about most? Why?
Education, mental health, and food insecurity.
What do you love most about an organization you volunteer with? Why do you volunteer with them?
I volunteer to give back. I love an organization that communicates well, cares for the welfare of volunteers, and practices community.
“I’m an Army veteran and just enjoy being of service to humanity. Volunteering takes you out of your comfort zone and forces you into periods of introspection and growth.”
How has volunteering impacted your personal/professional life?
I am back in school for a degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
What skills have you honed or what have you learned through your experience as a volunteer?
Patience, intentionality, awareness, community, and partnership.
Can you share a memorable highlight or moment you've experienced that might motivate others to volunteer?
Just seeing my student transition and be part of the learning community. Having a dream and setting goals.
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'm new to Atlanta, this is my 10th month here. So, I'm still exploring and figuring things out.
What advice would you give to someone who is interested in getting involved with volunteering?
Get rid of your savior complex. Be prepared to be emotionally and mentally activated/triggered, and be open to learn from those you serve.
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.
Meet Rising Leader and AmeriCorps Member Jessika Prayor
Meet one of our amazing AmeriCorps members, Jessika Prayor. She is a graduate student at Walden University Graduate Student, and serves at Drew Charter School. In April, she was awarded a School Legacy Award for her lasting impact and leadership! In addition to AmeriCorps, Jessika is also a volunteer with Hands On Atlanta, and a mentor with Chicktime Conyers!
Meet one of our amazing AmeriCorps members, Jessika Prayor. She is a graduate student at Walden University Graduate Student, and serves at Drew Charter School. In April, she was awarded a School Legacy Award for her lasting impact and leadership! In addition to AmeriCorps, Jessika is also a volunteer with Hands On Atlanta, and a mentor with Chicktime Conyers!
Learn more about Jessika’s impact in our community!
What impact areas or pressing needs facing Atlanta do you care about most? Why?
Youth empowerment and development hold immense importance for me because I firmly believe that investing in our young people is essential for shaping a brighter future for Atlanta. Children represent the future of our city, and it's imperative that we create environments where they can thrive, discover their talents, and develop the skills necessary to navigate society successfully. Furthermore, I am deeply committed to violence prevention and intervention. When someone experiences a violent act, the consequences extend far beyond the individual victim. The impact ripples through the entire community, causing additional trauma and instability. By prioritizing violence prevention and intervention, we can work towards creating safer communities where everyone feels secure and supported.
“Growing up in eastern Atlanta has instilled in me a strong sense of connection to this community. Giving back here is incredibly rewarding, and it’s just the start of the impact I hope to have, both locally and beyond. Atlanta’s dynamic hustle culture and its progressive business landscape inspire me to pursue my dreams. Plus, the city’s rich food culture and array of outdoor activities make it a place I’m proud to call home.”
What do you love most about an organization you volunteer with? Why do you volunteer with them?
What I love most about the organizations I volunteer with is their commitment to making a tangible difference in people's lives. Most of my volunteer efforts are focused on youth empowerment. I find great fulfillment in being the mentor and support system that I wished I had when I was younger.
How has volunteering impacted your personal/professional life?
By engaging in volunteer activities, I've had the chance to develop leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities.On a personal note, it's given me a real sense of purpose and fulfillment. Connecting with my community in this way has been super rewarding, and it's been amazing to make a positive impact on others' lives. I've also had the pleasure of making lifelong connections with people that add value to my career and share the same values as me.
What skills have you honed or what have you learned through your experience as a volunteer?
Volunteering has played a significant role in my personal growth. It's been instrumental in broadening my cultural awareness, providing me with valuable leadership opportunities, and expanding my professional network. Through these experiences, I've gained insights into different cultures, honed my leadership skills, and established meaningful connections.
Can you share a memorable highlight or moment you've experienced that might motivate others to volunteer?
I've had countless fulfilling experiences through volunteering, making it tough to pick just one. However, a standout moment was during the holiday season when two colleagues and I initiated a drive at our school. We realized that donations from most drives often go outside the school community. So, we decided to redirect the collected items back to the school, ensuring that students in need could access food and toiletries. This initiative not only allowed students to participate in community service but also brought immense joy to families who were genuinely surprised and grateful for the support. Witnessing their smiles, tears of happiness, and heartfelt appreciation made it all incredibly rewarding.
What advice would you give to someone who is interested in getting involved with volunteering?
There are numerous ways to support your community beyond traditional volunteer roles. I recommend beginning with your passions, hobbies, or professional background when exploring opportunities. Once you start volunteering, maintain consistency, actively network, and seize every opportunity for growth and impact.
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.
Meet AmeriCorps Member Deja Johnson!
Meet Deja Johnson, one of our AmeriCorps Members who serves as a Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Coach at Drew Charter School. Along with AmeriCorps. Deja is a reoccurring volunteer with Hands On Atlanta, and believes in supporting youth and education.
Learn more about Deja and her passion for education!
Meet Deja Johnson, one of our AmeriCorps Members who serves as a Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Coach at Drew Charter School. Along with AmeriCorps. Deja is a reoccurring volunteer with Hands On Atlanta, and believes in supporting youth and education.
This past April, during Global Volunteer Month, Deja was awarded the School Legacy Award for making a lasting impact at one of our partner schools through her AmeriCorps service!
Learn more about Deja and her passion for education below!
What impact areas or pressing needs facing Atlanta do you care about most? Why?
Opening up conversations for opportunity amongst under resourced youth. I care about this issue because most students in these circumstances have been left to feel hopeless or super limited with the possibilities of the future. By opening up the conversation for adaptable possibilities, you invite students/youth to be inspired to take paths that now sound obtainable given their circumstances.
What do you love most about an organization you volunteer with? Why do you volunteer with them?
I love volunteering through HOA because of the community involvement. Being able to share the same passion amongst my community and for my community is always inspiring.
How has volunteering impacted your personal/professional life?
Through volunteering I’ve learned more about what It takes to offer support to my community vs just helping my community. Understanding that difference has been so impactful to knowing how I can lead most effectively in both the world and my inner community.
What skills have you honed or what have you learned through your experience as a volunteer?
I’ve learned peer leadership, marketing skills and furthered my communication skills amongst diverse communities.
Can you share a memorable highlight or moment you've experienced that might motivate others to volunteer?
Volunteering I’ve built a mentorship relationship with 5 students. I’ve taken it upon myself to start a weekly workshop with the group to expose them to new vocabulary and experiences. Through these workshops we’ve built a bond built on respect and understanding. My relationships with these students started out challenging but eventually became the most honest and trustworthy relationships. Outside of this I have built memorable long lasting relationships within the community that will be impactful for years to come… so many seeds have been planted!
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.
Being a black women from a predominantly white state (Indiana)… coming to atlanta was like coming to the land of opportunity! The culture and community is sooo rich and inspiring! The support is endless, and the way the community can come together and see everyone in positions of growth is insatiable, definitely not something you see across the states! #iloveatlanta #year10
“Be authentic when you volunteer, don’t always try and do things how everyone else is saying to do it. You never know who may be in need of the unique approach you may be wanting to take with things. :)”
Volunteering soon? Share where, when and if others can join you or how they can get involved.
No public volunteer opportunities at the moment. But I am planning to put together some opportunities for my students to be exposed to new endeavors. If anyone wants to know how to support they can email me at dejabobbi00@gmail.com. Taking any and all support that can be offered :)! Even if it’s just cost efficient options for some experiences we can take! Thank you!
Please list anything else you think our community should know about you, your volunteer service, or your commitment to Do Something Good!
I want the world to know I am committed to making under resourced students feel at home in a world not built for them. I commit to this through exposure workshops with teens where students are introduced to new wellness techniques, ways of thinking, foods, acts of service and vocabulary. Being able to pass on what I’ve learned in this world to help someone else move through a world less comfortable for youth that may look like us… will always make this life experience fulfilling for me. Thank you for allowing me to be in positions to support!
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.
Meet Gayle Kahn: An extraordinary volunteer and Founder's Award Recipient
We’re excited to spotlight one of our amazing volunteers, Gayle Kahn. In April, Gayle was awarded our Founders Award, and has volunteered with our longest running program - Discovery at Parklane Elementary School! Outside of volunteering, she was the regional training manager for Prudential Real Estate and Relocation. She’s emerged as a leader in everything she does, and is truly as she describes: kind, extroverted and active! Her passion for giving back to our community is amazing!
We’re excited to spotlight one of our amazing volunteers, Gayle Kahn. In April, Gayle was awarded our Founders Award, and has volunteered with our longest running program - Discovery at Parklane Elementary School! Outside of volunteering, she was the regional training manager for Prudential Real Estate and Relocation. She’s emerged as a leader in everything she does, and is truly as she describes: kind, extroverted and active! Her passion for giving back to our community is amazing!
Read more about Gayle in our interview below!
What impact areas or pressing needs facing Atlanta do you care about most? Why?
Public schools especially Title I schools. The unhoused population Refugees especially in Clarkston, GA.
What do you love most about an organization you volunteer with? Why do you volunteer with them?
I was an elementary school teacher for 11 years with a Master's Degree in Education. I left teaching for the corporate world but once a teacher always a teacher. Parklane ES Discovery gives me the opportunity to use my teaching background and my love for children and volunteering. I want to make a difference in a child's life.
“I have loved being able to make a difference in the lives of so many children for 28 years. We try our best to combine reinforcing academics with fun activities. The children are so smart and are like little sponges. It is a joy to be with them. We also teach kindness and other soft skills and I love seeing them interact with each other. I get as much out of it as they do or more.”
What skills have you honed or what have you learned through your experience as a volunteer?
The children are on so many different levels and it is great to be able to give them one on one individual instruction and attention. As a former teacher I know this is not always possible in a classroom setting. This is an enrichment program since it is on Saturdays and only 2 hours but one would be surprised the impact we can make.
Can you share a memorable highlight or moment you've experienced that might motivate others to volunteer?
The two main areas we work on the most are reading and math. I tutor in 2nd grade. We try to instill a love of reading. One year we asked the children to draw a picture of what they wanted to do when they grew up. I'll never forget the little boy that drew a motorcycle policeman but when he shared his picture with the class he said he had changed his mind and he wanted to be a librarian so he could help children pick out books. You bet I cried. If you touch just one child in some way it is all worthwhile.
“I have lived in Atlanta since I graduated from the University of Florida except for 4 years when I taught for the DOD school system in Germany. I was born in Syracuse but I have become a Southern at heart. I love the friends I have made, the trees, the parks, the restaurants, the local theatres including the FOX, my walking neighborhood and most of all the good people that are all around the city trying to make Atlanta a better place to live for all. I love volunteering and besides Hands On Atlanta I am involved with other projects.”
What advice would you give to someone who is interested in getting involved with volunteering?
Go to the Hands On Atlanta website and look at all the opportunities offered. Check Facebook, Nextdoor, etc. Someone is always in need of help. It can be a one-time thing or a long-term commitment. There is something for everyone.
Please list anything else you think our community should know about you, your volunteer service, or your commitment to Do Something Good!
I will be a young 80 years old in July and am grateful I am able to be so active at this stage of my life. I have been volunteering at Parklane ES for 28 years and hope to be doing many more years. I also was known as "The Jacket Lady" for over a decade as I collected donated money and purchased new winter jackets and distributed to the Parklane students that were in need as identified by the teachers. Some years we (it got so big I had friends helping me distribute at the school) gave out over 200 jackets! I discontinued the project in 2021. Any leftover jackets I donated to Friends of Refugees in Clarkston. I also work with 2 friends helping to feed and collect clothing for the unhoused in downtown Atlanta. I have done many charity walks...American Cancer Society, Saint Jude's, etc. I guess you might say volunteering is my hobby. Before Covid I was a regular volunteer usher at the FOX. I also have made sandwiches for The Sandwich Project and made fleece blankets for the dogs at the LifeLine animal shelter. I collect newspapers for the Jack Russell animal rescue group. I have purchased food at the Food Commune and taken it to the Free Frig. There's more but I won't bore you any further. I guess I have my fingers in a lot of pies and love every minute of it.
Congratulations to our 2024 Hands On Atlanta Civic Leaders!
The 2024 Hands On Atlanta Civic Leadership Program, powered by Constellation, has officially graduated as the largest cohort of Civic Fellows in program history.
We are thrilled to share that the largest cohort of Civic Fellows in program history have graduated to Civic Leaders!
On Wednesday, June 5 the 2024 class of Hands On Atlanta Civic Fellows completed their commitment to making Atlanta more engaged and equitable with a graduation ceremony at the Metro Atlanta Chamber.
From October 2023 through May 2024, our fellows hosted projects with their nonprofit partner, attended monthly professional development and leadership training workshops and raised $32,550. Now Civic Leaders, these outstanding changemakers, have developed the leadership skills to take their service and careers to the next level!
Check out the nonprofits supported this year:
Fellows also supported some of our partner Title 1 schools through our Discovery program.
The graduation ceremony included an energetic recap of their service year, where Chantelle Hawkins, Malan Hess, and Brittany Hartman shared impact stories with their fellow graduates. Program alumni and active Hands On Atlanta Changemaker Board Member, Maranie Brown shared some perspective on “Life after the Civic Leadership Program”, and the event was wrapped by a keynote from the ever impressive and thought provoking, Nzinga Shaw.
Along with highlighting the impact created by our fellows and memorable words shared by leading Atlanta influencers, awards were given to the top fundraisers and the recipients of this year’s Impact Award.
In 2024, 29 Civic Fellows engaged over 3,000 volunteers to serve more than 8,300 hours - saving our partners $232,825 in volunteer labor. In addition, they raised $32,550 for Hands On Atlanta.
Top Fundraisers
Chantelle Hawkins ($5,625 from 82 Supporters)
Myia Jones-Dunwoody ($1,680 from 46 Supporters)
Impact Awardees
Kayla Tomlinson
Keiron Robinson
Kennedi Harris
Michael Kerfeld
Crystal McCorkle
Omar King
We’re excited to see the impact our 2024 cohort continues to create across metro Atlanta.
The Hands On Atlanta Civic Leadership Program, powered by Constellation is 10-month, immersive professional development/leadership training program that builds community leaders while supporting the needs of nonprofit and school partners. Civic Fellows get hands-on experience and also participate in leadership training and mentoring provided by Hands On Atlanta staff, program alumni and partners.
To learn more about the Hands On Atlanta Civic Leadership Program visit https://www.handsonatlanta.org/civic-leadership Applications are open for the 24-25 cohort. Apply by June 28, 2024.
Meet Sydney Williams: Our 1,000,000th Volunteer!
Meet Sydney Williams, our 1,000,000th volunteer, class of 2022 Civic Fellow, dedicated Discovery volunteer, and leader. She regularly volunteers with Hands On Atlanta, and Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta.
Meet Sydney Williams, our 1,000,000th volunteer, class of 2022 Civic Fellow, and dedicated Discovery volunteer. She is a regular volunteer with us at Hands On Atlanta, helping both our nonprofit partners, and our corporate activations as a task leader. Sydney has a fierce passion for mentoring the next generation of young leaders and is also a Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta volunteer.
Get to know Sydney and how her volunteering journey has propelled her forward!
What do you love most about an organization you volunteer with? Why do you volunteer with them?
Watching kids in the Discovery program learn new skills throughout the school year and gain more confidence is what I love most about volunteering with Hands on Atlanta. I volunteer with Discovery because I'm passionate about providing academic enrichment opportunities to all children.
“Education is an impact area that is close to my heart. I deeply believe that the wellbeing of future generations is the shared responsibility of our community.”
How has volunteering impacted your personal/professional life?
Volunteering has brought a stronger sense of balance in both my personal and professional life. It's much easier for me to stay grounded and present in my daily responsibilities.
What skills have you honed or what have you learned through your experience as a volunteer?
My project management skills have evolved significantly through my experience as a volunteer!
Can you share a memorable highlight or moment you've experienced that might motivate others to volunteer?
Seeing the smiles on kids faces each week when they see that you've shown up for them always motivates me to bring my very best effort when I volunteer!
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 spent most of my young professional years in Atlanta, this city raised me! I love to explore new restaurants and parks in my free time.
What advice would you give to someone who is interested in getting involved with volunteering?
Bring a friend! It can help to have a familiar face next to you as you kickoff your volunteering journey.
Summer Volunteering: 4 Tips for a great sERVICE experience
Summer is one of the best times to get involved and give back to your community. The days are longer, warmer, and volunteers often have a more flexible schedule! Whether you’re a student looking to do community service for the upcoming school year, a parent, or employee, there is something you can do to make a difference!
Summer is one of the best times to get involved and give back to your community. The days are longer, warmer, and volunteers often have a more flexible schedule! Whether you’re a student looking to do community service for the upcoming school year, a parent, or employee, there is something you can do to make a difference!
Here are four tips to make your summer volunteering experience the best:
1. Find a Project:
Summer is a popular time for going outdoors, volunteering, and more! Whether you’re volunteering individually or with a group, find a cause you are passionate about! You may enjoy food insecurity, education, environmental sustainability, or health + wellness - no matter the cause there are tons of projects to choose from! Start your search on our volunteer portal and find what gives you a spark!
2. Plan Ahead:
Summer heat in Atlanta can be pretty intense, and it’s crucial for both indoor and outdoor projects to stay protected and hydrated! Be mindful of the times your projects are scheduled and opt for cooler parts of the day if necessary. Wear light, breathable clothing, and sun protection (hat, sunglasses, or sunscreen). Carry a reusable water bottle to rehydrate and take regular breaks as needed. Eat a healthy meal before heading out and bring snacks to keep your energy up. Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes that you don't mind getting dirty, especially if you'll be working in gardens or parks.
3. Be Flexible:
Summer activities, such as site beautifications and gardening are usually subject to weather conditions. Be prepared to adapt to changes in the schedule or tasks based on the weather forecast, whether it’s rain or excessive heat. Always read your volunteer confirmations for any other information and inclement weather plans. Flexibility is key to ensuring a successful volunteering experience, so keep an open mindset and be willing to aid wherever your help is needed most.
4. Be Selfish:
Be selfish? Yes, you read that right. The community gains so much from your service, but so do YOU! Prioritize yourself this summer and make time to focus on what volunteering will give back to you. Looking for purpose, community, friends? Maybe you want to learn a new skill, get in a good workout, explore a new neighborhood or better understand a specific challenge facing Atlanta? Volunteering is your solution. When your time serving is over, don’t forget to take a moment to reflect. Check in with how you feel —> we’re betting you’re going to leave better than you came in.
Meet Jeff Cantin: Nonprofit Legacy Awardee
We’re thrilled to introduce you all to Jeff Cantin. Jeff is a Major at the Atlanta Police Department, as well as a dedicated volunteer, and member of our Civic Leadership Program. After graduating from high school, he started working in public service, doing various events. This summer will make 30 years of his commitment to public service!
We’re thrilled to introduce you all to Jeff Cantin. Jeff is a Major at the Atlanta Police Department, as well as a dedicated volunteer, and member of our Civic Leadership Program. After graduating from high school, he started working in public service, doing various events. This summer will make 30 years of his commitment to public service! This year we were honored to celebrate Jeff with our Nonprofit Legacy Award for making a huge impact with our partners.
Read more about Jeff, and his impact in Atlanta below!
Which Nonprofit Organization(s) do you volunteer with?
Police Athletic League and Hands on Atlanta
What impact areas or pressing needs facing Atlanta do you care about most? Why?
Atlanta has many pressing needs, from homeless to working with youths and seniors. It's hard to focus on just one.
“Hands-on Atlanta gives you many different organizations to work with on various issues. I like trying different organizations and groups.”
How has volunteering impacted your personal/professional life?
Seeing the impact or the results of your work is empowering. I still drive by the Habitat for Humanity houses that I helped to build for a family.
What skills have you honed or what have you learned through your experience as a volunteer?
Communicating with different groups with different views but wanting to work towards the same goal.
Can you share a memorable highlight or moment you've experienced that might motivate others to volunteer?
Returning to the Habitat for Humanity building, it was motivating to meet the family and work side by side with them as they moved into the house. The family's appreciation is motivating, especially after learning about their struggle to get to this point.
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.
The Atlanta metro area offers everything from walking the Beltline to climbing Stone Mountain. I love the outdoor activities in the area.
What advice would you give to someone who is interested in getting involved with volunteering?
Try different activities until you find something you like. Hands-on Atlanta does give you a wide range of activities to try.
Volunteering in May? Share where, when and if others can join you or how they can get involved.
Now is the time to learn about gardening and working in community greenspaces. The Wylde Center has many openings across the metro.
