THE CITIZEN BLOG
THE CITIZEN BLOG
Meet Five Points Farm + Community Garden: Creating green spaces throughout Atlanta's Downtown!
We’re excited to feature nonprofit partner - Five Points Farm Community Garden! The Five Points Community Garden is known being a garden contained on top of the Five Points MARTA station - they've since expanded to create additional "points" around downtown. The garden is also a member of AgLanta Grows-A-Lot program where they share resources and information with other community gardens around metro Atlanta.
We’re excited to feature nonprofit partner - Five Points Farm, a Community Garden! The Five Points Community Garden started on top of the Five Points MARTA station - but they've moved and expanded to create additional "points" around downtown. The garden is also a member of AgLanta Grows-A-Lot program where they share resources and information with other community gardens around metro Atlanta.
Get involved with 5 Points Farm:
To volunteer, click on this link
Learn more about Five Points Farm in our interview below!
Tell us about your organization – what’s your mission, and what does it mean to the our community?
The Five Points Community Garden is for downtown residents or workers (or close to downtown) who want to grow their own food, and well as build community in the heart of the city. We're also creating green spaces in a sea of asphalt and concrete. While our original garden was contained on top of the Five Points MARTA station - we've expanded beyond to create additional "points" around downtown that's now a pollinator garden at Underground and a rooftop herb/drip irrigation garden on top of the Kessler. We're a member of AgLanta Grows-A-Lot program where we share resources and information with other community gardens around metro Atlanta. We've also provided tours and hosted neighborhood meetings.
Can you share some impact stats or comments about the work being done by your organization?
Our impact extends far beyond our garden beds. In 2024 alone, we've engaged more than 400 volunteers who have contributed more than 2,000 hours to help us relocate and establish our new space. These dedicated individuals have transformed a neglected, weed-filled parking lot into a thriving green space that nourishes both body and soul. We're planning to continue our work as a gathering place for the community, hosting everything from Atlanta Downtown Neighborhood Association meetings to urban agriculture education events. Our garden is a living classroom, a community hub, and a model for sustainable urban living.
What’s the history of your organization? How and why did it get started?
Established in 2016 through a visionary partnership between Central Atlanta Progress, the Atlanta Downtown Improvement District (CAP/ADID), and MARTA, our garden has deep roots in the community. In 2018, we joined forces with the City of Atlanta's Office of Resilience through its AgLanta program, solidifying our position as a key player in Atlanta's urban agriculture movement.Today, our garden is a vibrant tapestry of galvanized steel planters, raised beds and giant clay pots brimming with garden favorites and exotic plants alike. From juicy tomatoes to aji peppers and aromatic za'atar, our 23 dedicated members cultivate a diverse array of produce. But we're more than just a garden—we're a vital source of fresh food in an area that lacks easy access to a major grocery store.Thanks to AgLanta’s Grows-a-Lot and support from organizations like Food Well Alliance and ChangeX, we've expanded our vision and reach. Our garden now boasts a greenhouse, tool storage, compost station in our new space - and a pollinator garden at Underground. We're proud to be an official Pollinator Partner and completing certification as a Pollinator Steward.
What kind of programming do you offer to the community?
While we haven't had a specific schedule of programming, we're also using our Hands On volunteer sessions to educate. And our Urban Ag partners have used our space for classes and online demonstrations.
What problem is your organization trying to solve, and can you tell us more about the issue?
Twenty-five percent of downtown Atlanta is parking lots. As someone who lives in a high-rise, garden space is usually a few plants on a windowsill. We're not only turning a gravel parking lot into much needed greenspace - but we're providing food and community.
“Volunteers have been critical to the success of the 5 Points Garden. While our garden members help to maintain their plots, it’s hard to get full participation for our other features in the garden. Without volunteers, we wouldn’t have been able to create our pollinator garden, build our greenhouse, install and maintain our hydroponic system. They have been critical in our move - with nearly 400 volunteers helping us since the start of this year. We wouldn’t exist without their help!”
What’s your biggest highlight or success from the past year?
Our move from on top of the 5 Points MARTA station to a gravel parking lot 5 blocks south. It took 6 months, much of that bringing plants and supplies down Forsyth St. - even carrying the greenhouse by hand! We're now in our new space and playing catch up to the growing season.
How many volunteers do you need every month, and can you describe the experience of serving with your organization for the volunteer? What do they do? What’s a day in the life as a volunteer with your organization?
We’ve had an extremely busy 2024 so far, and it’s with help from our Hands On volunteers that we’re getting things up and running. We haven’t had too many typical days - as we’re still setting up the garden infrastructure (think digging a new rain garden) - but we want to match volunteers with their skills - whether that’s construction and landscaping, or less strenuous like watering (great for kids) and weeding, mulching and planting seeds. And we’re eager to share our knowledge on what grows in Georgia! Dress to get dirty - and bring bug spray if they bother you. We have gloves if you didn’t bring them - and water to keep you hydrated.
We normally hold our biggest volunteer sessions with anywhere from 15 to 25 people on Sunday morning because it’s cooler, the on street parking is free, and it’s quieter downtown. Our work session will start at 9am - but those looking for some more community service time can come in at 8:30 to help set and break down after. We always do a group picture toward the end - which gives me a chance to thank everyone there. We also get a lot of return volunteers who jump right in to continue projects they’ve worked on before - we really want everyone to enjoy what they’re doing and to see their impact on our downtown community garden.
What types of projects do you offer? What are your biggest projects available, and needs from volunteers? Tell us abouta few different offerings.
We're always exploring projects that can make our garden better - as well as turn out space into an Urban Ag Resource Center. In addition to our new Zero Waste Zone Station (described below), we're building a rain garden. We'd also like to get a rain barrel up and running. And ongoing garden projects are seed planting, transplanting, weeding, fertilizing. We're also exploring creating a mural on our stone and brick walls.
Who is your volunteer manager, and what’s their favorite thing about working for your organization?
We're all volunteers at the 5 Points Garden - so there's not officially a volunteer manager - but what I really enjoy is giving volunteers a little direction and let them create the solution. It's especially rewarding when a volunteer shows a keen interest in one of our project - and they turn into a garden member. One example is our hydroponic system - where a young engineer took it on and is now managing it as a fun side project for him. Our best members started as volunteers.
“We want our volunteers to enjoy working in the garden, and give them ownership of their work. Whether it’s creating a raised bed or planting a tree - we want them to be able to come back and see the results and feel pride in how they’re contributed. And we look for opportunities to share our knowledge about growing a garden so that it’s less intimating.”
What’s going to be happening with your organization in 2024 that you’re really excited about?
We want to create a Zero Waste Zone Station @ 5 Points Community Garden. Atlanta launched the Southeast’s first Zero Waste Zone in 2009 - but it’s since disappeared. This project will look at what happened to it and how we can relaunch it on a smaller scale by creating a compost station at a downtown community garden that collects food waste from surrounding businesses using a bicycle cart.
The 1st goal is building a Zero Waste Zone station at the front of the 5 Points Community Garden (203 Forsyth St) that’s visible with signage to be a demonstration and education site. It will feature a robust, three bin compost system, a biochar kiln and vermiculture (and other waste reduction techniques as the students research what’s appropriate).
The 2nd goal is researching then creating a Zero Waste collection system. This is examining how the process worked in the past and establishing relationships with local food service businesses to restart it - and collect the waste using bicycle carts (there are a numberof urban bike-powered compost collection services in the US - we’d be the first in Atlanta!).
The 3rd goal is community engagement and education. The 5 Points Garden has already had more than 400 Hands On volunteers so far this year (many of those students). In addition to its current garden members, it plans to involve residents of The Melody (the first project in Atlanta's Rapid Housing Initiative). The Zero Waste Zone creates an opportunity to showcase composting to its members, volunteers and visitors.
Let’s leave our readers with a list of ways they can jump in and get involved. Tell us how we can support you!
Our normal volunteer sessions are Sunday mornings - so we welcome anyone of any ability or age (and bring a group and we'll have you work together). We can also accommodate groups outside of our normal volunteer days. I had a building consulting group construct our greenhouse on a Friday afternoon as a team building project.
Meet Raveena Alli: A changemaker passionate about serving our community!
We’re ecstatic to introduce one of our amazing volunteers; Raveena Alli! Raveena is a first-year undergraduate at Georgia Tech here in Atlanta, majoring in International Affairs and Modern Languages as well as Public Policy with a plan to minor in Social Justice.
Learn more about Raveena in our interview below!
We’re ecstatic to introduce one of our amazing volunteers; Raveena Alli! Raveena is a first-year undergraduate at Georgia Tech here in Atlanta, majoring in International Affairs and Modern Languages as well as Public Policy with a plan to minor in Social Justice.
When she is not volunteering or in school, she works part-time for Partnership For Southern Equity (PSE) on their Yes! For Equity youth staff team. At PSE, they work collaboratively to advance policies and institutional actions that promote racial equity and shared prosperity for the growth of all in Metropolitan Atlanta and the American South.
Learn more about Raveena in our interview below!
Which Nonprofit Organization(s) do you volunteer with?
I volunteer with Atlanta Mission (specifically My Sister's House and Restoration House which are both shelters for women and children experiencing homelessness). I also am a member of the WABE advisory council, where we provide valuable feedback and insights into how WABE as a public journalism organization can work to create a more informative, connected, and inclusive Atlanta community for all while centering diverse voices and experiences in important conversations. Lastly, I serve as a board member for the 49 Mustard Seeds Foundation, a nonprofit where we create fun and engaging math videos and content in an effort to make math feel more real-world and relevant, presenting it to students in exciting, transferable ways that feel relevant in every aspect of life. We also collect and distribute school supplies to local schools every summer in preparation for the new school year.
What impact areas or pressing needs facing Atlanta do you care about most? Why?
In Atlanta alone, over ten thousand of our neighbors are experiencing homelessness. Housing is a basic and undeniable human right. Currently our approach to homelessness is very much one size fits all and does not center individual needs/experiences. Homelessness is a very solvable issue, it requires investment in affordable, safe and dignified housing and we must change the narrative and stigma surrounding homelessness, it's not about placing blame, shame, or judgement and homeless is not a choice or the fault of anyone experiencing it. It's about us coming together as a caring community, each of us doing our small part to ensure everyone has what they need to thrive.
“I appreciate the safe and supportive environment for women and children experiencing homelessness fostered by Atlanta Mission, where they are surrounded by a caring community of people who want the best for them and providing them with the love and support they need and deserve and fostering meaningful healing.”
How has volunteering impacted your personal/professional life?
Volunteerism fosters for me a deep sense of personal connection and connection to my Atlanta community. When we look at big societal and systemic problems, it's easy to get wrapped up in data and numbers, but volunteerism personalizes these issues in a very meaningful and powerful way. Volunteerism provides critical insights into the challenges our communities face and how I can be part of the solution, and as a young leader and aspiring changemaker, I am filled with hope and optimism as I think of the ways I can someday the small changes I am making now, implementing and enforcing equitable policies that center the voices of those impacted by systemic injustices and contributing to a more kind, inclusive community for all. Volunteerism has deepend my empathy and awareness of the challenges our communities face and through volunteerism I have met many unsung heroes and sheroes, inspiring role models and valued mentors whose profound words of wisdom serve for me as an ever present reminder of the importance and power of our voices, our stories, and our experiences when used for good to drive positive change in our communities and beyond.
What skills have you honed or what have you learned through your experience as a volunteer?
For the past three years I have co-led the Community Service Club at my school, Atlanta Girls School, where my peers and school community have taught me the value of adaptability and creativity, of never giving up and treating each challenge as a door opened, a new opportunity for learning and shared growth and connection. I often had to think outside the box to devise unique ways to engage and motivate students whose passion may not have necessarily been volunteerism and community service. In this way, I became a more dynamic and empathetic leader, more able to meaningfully connect with and engage individuals with diverse interests. I believe that had it not been for these past three years co-leading this amazing club I would never have developed the flexibility and creative thinking skills to lead empathically and effectively, remembering to appreciate everyone's unique gifts which deserve to be shared and celebrated! Through the club I also met so many likeminded community members, peers, and mentors for whom I will forever be grateful. Lastly, I would like to extend special thanks to our club's faculty advisor, whose invaluable guidance and expertise in service-learning programs greatly enhanced my event planning and leadership skills, and her ever positive and encouraging spirit kept us all motivated to keep making our community a kinder place for all.
Can you share a memorable highlight or moment you've experienced that might motivate others to volunteer?
For the past two years, I have successfully co-led my school's Community Service Club in hosting an annual Mothers Day tea party for the women and children at Restoration House, a shelter for women and children experiencing homelessness that falls under the umbrella of Atlanta Mission. One of my proudest and most cherished moments of my high school journey came in May of 2023 at this festive event. We served 80 mothers and 40 children, we had delicious food, deserts, and of course tea! We had music playing, lots of fun games and arts and crafts for the kids, and excited chatter filled the room around me as everyone enjoyed the celebration. I will never forget the pure joy in that room, contagious and profound joy, the spirit of love and celebration, of togetherness radiated from every corner of the packed room. Observing the women, watching as their faces lit up, as they relaxed and talked, and more than anything admiring the amazing women around me, their resilience, their strength, their courage and feeling profound gratitude for this moment and for everyone here with me, sharing this gift of community, and the beauty of our shared humanity in that moment.
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.
Out Of Hand Theater is one of my favorite places in Atlanta, creatively utilizing the arts to spread awareness surrounding important social justice issues. I have had the honor to participate in their Institute For Equity Activism eight-module training which I would highly recommend! Out Of Hand Theater serves as an inspiration for me every day reminds us of the power of our stories and the arts to convey powerful messages and drive positive change.
What advice would you give to someone who is interested in getting involved with volunteering?
Never underestimate the sacredness and value of your time. In this increasingly fast paced and individualistic world, it can be easy to forget the little things, the special moments we share with our neighbors and community. Never underestimate the gift of simply knowing someone cares, and do everything you can to show up for others in your life and for your community. A little kindness really does go a long way!
Meet Livable Buckhead: Making Buckhead a thriving place to work and live!
We’re excited to feature one of our awesome nonprofit partners, Livable Buckhead! Their mission is to create positive impact in Buckhead, so it is always an amazing place to live and work.
We’re excited to feature one of our awesome nonprofit partners, Livable Buckhead! Their mission is to create positive impact in Buckhead, so it is always an amazing place to live and work. Livable Buckhead brings residents, local businesses, workers, and visitors together to address a wide range of issues important to all of Atlanta – greenspace, alternative transportation, workforce housing, sustainable practices, zoning, public art – and does so by fostering relationships between groups with disparate priorities and chipping away at systemic inequalities that have been in place for generations.
Get involved with Livable Buckhead:
Read more about Livable Buckhead in our interview below!
Tell us about your organization – what’s your mission, and what does it mean to the our community?
We are committed to transparency, in-depth research, and an inclusive approach to tackling issues of concern. Livable Buckhead has created a model for collaborative governance and community trust-building that works. Being a small organization, we do this all through partnerships. Collaboration and inclusivity are two of our core values that we put into practice every hour of every day.
“In 2024, we are very excited about three upcoming events: PARK(ing) Day, Party on the PATH and the Miracle on Peachtree suite of programming which includes wreath decorating benefitting the police and fire departments, a tree lighting ceremony with the Atlanta Boy Choir and two separate hot chocolate crawls across Buckhead.”
Can you share some impact stats or comments about the work being done by your organization?
Livable Buckhead works every day to bring knowledge, innovation, and inspiration to community concerns. Many people do not understand that Livable Buckhead does not represent any one interest, but rather works to create a neighborhood where everyone who lives, works, and plays here feels their voices are heard and their perspectives are reflected in solutions. When trusted partners recognize the role that Livable Buckhead plays in bringing everyone in the community to the table and acknowledge their many achievements and goals for the future, their capacity to create sustainable change increases and they are more effective.
As an organization, Livable Buckhead regularly goes above and beyond to engage in and support its community partners’ activities and projects. You can regularly find the LBI team taking part in community service projects ranging from painting the local police zone, to cooking burgers for the north battalion of Atlanta Fire Rescue Department, clearing invasive species, helping to promote senior citizen events, donning waders to clean out a detention pond, and graffiti removal. The Livable Buckhead team is never on the sidelines - they are willing to jump in and do the hard work. They have SHOWN UP since 1999 and will keep on doing it because it is the right thing to do.
What’s the history of your organization? How and why did it get started?
Livable Buckhead and its predecessor organization “BATMA” formed during a time of extensive community strife. Recognizing that it would be impossible to create a culture of community sustainability under these circumstances, Livable Buckhead established a model of doing the community’s business that is inclusive and transparent...not only inviting, but requiring, everyone to SHOW UP and take part.
In the 1980’s, the building of GA400 highway spawned a bitter community battle that pitted developers against residents. The highway literally divided the community in half, severing neighbor from neighbor in an effort to get workers from northern suburbs to jobs in downtown Atlanta while also opening valuable Buckhead land for development. Residents were subjected to “negotiations” with an unaccommodating department of transportation and saw their future filled with gridlocked traffic while developers began designing their skyscrapers and projecting their profit margins. Dubbed the “scar that will never heal” by some residents, the highway eroded community trust and pushed the community firmly into two camps.
In 1999, the Buckhead Area Transportation Management Association “BATMA” was created out of the Buckhead Business Association with a mission to mitigate traffic from the coming development. BATMA’s board of directors hired an executive director fresh out of planning school, with three years at the regional planning agency under her belt, a penchant for tackling tough issues, a passion for bringing people together, and a commitment to going anywhere at any time to ensure that the whole community was engaged in decision-making. Under this leadership, the driving principle for BATMA and subsequently Livable Buckhead is all about showing up for the community.
What kind of programming do you offer to the community?
What problem is your organization trying to solve, and can you tell us more about the issue?
Over the course of two decades, through a series of community planning efforts built on open communication, strong public engagement, and transparency, Livable Buckhead created avenues for public engagement, helped everyone to work together, and slowly created a bridge connecting the dividing sides. Silos began to erode, and community discourse became productive. Throughout 10 major plans and projects, Livable Buckhead earned the trust needed to build a new diverse community table where everyone with a personal stake in the community is welcome. The social transformation achieved through this creative approach led to more equitable, sustainable decisions improving livability in the community.
How do volunteers support your mission? What impact do they have on your work? What difference do they make?
As Livable Buckhead has evolved into producing more community-based events and programming, volunteers have become an integral part of our organization. Not only do volunteers help to expand our staff's reach, but also provide an important conduit for community engagement. Without the hard work and commitment from our volunteers, we literally would not be able to do what we do.
What’s your biggest highlight or success from the past year?
Over the past year, Livable Buckhead has built up a large portfolio of successes, including community-wide events such as our buckheadRUN 5K, 100+ person bike ride on PATH400, Party on the PATH, and the Miracle on Peachtree Hot Chocolate Crawl. We've also hosted volunteer projects as diverse as waterway cleanups, graffiti removals, public art projects and first responder appreciation cook outs.
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?
Our volunteer needs fluctuate month-to-month, but an average month will see the need from between 10 to 30 volunteers across a range of experiences and skill sets. No day is the same, and our volunteers will find their experience as challenging as they want it to be.
What types of projects do you offer? What are your biggest projects available, and needs from volunteers? Tell us about a few different offerings.
Because of our multiple program areas, volunteers can find the projects that suit them best, whether it's checking in guests at party, planting native flora, clearing invasive species, setting up tables and tents, and even helping wrangling llamas.
Who is your volunteer manager, and what’s their favorite thing about working for your organization?
Donna Dodson, our community engagement manager, heads up our volunteer management, in collaboration with Helen Petersen, our sustainability manager. Both came to Livable Buckhead for the mission-based work, and thrive in the dynamic environment, where every day brings both a new challenge, and a chance to improve our community through engagement.
What do volunteers love about working with your organization?
In our follow-up communications to volunteers, the theme that weaves its way through is one of fun and sense of accomplishment. We approach all the events and projects with volunteers through the lens of positive engagement. Not only should our volunteers leave with a feeling of having made a difference, but we also want them to leave with a smile on their faces, wanting to come back.
Championing Community with YMCA of Metro Atlanta
We’re excited to introduce one of our amazing nonprofit partners: YMCA of Metro Atlanta. The YMCA of Metro Atlanta is celebrating a whopping 166 years of serving our incredible community! Since 1858, they have been more than just a gym – they’re a community-driven powerhouse dedicated to addressing critical needs, fostering communities, and empowering individuals to reach their fullest potential.
Read more about YMCA in our interview below!
We’re excited to introduce one of our amazing nonprofit partners, YMCA of Metro Atlanta. The YMCA of Metro Atlanta is celebrating a whopping 166 years of serving our incredible community! Since 1858, they have been more than just a gym – they’re a community-driven powerhouse dedicated to addressing critical needs, fostering communities, and empowering individuals to reach their fullest potential.
Get involved with the Y:
To volunteer with the Y, click on this link.
To learn more about membership or program offerings, click on this link
Read more about The YMCA in our interview below!
Tell us about your organization – what’s your mission, and what does it mean to the our community?
At the Y, we are grounded in our mission, of being the organization that is open to and serving all with programs and services that build healthy mind, body, and spirit. We are guided by our values: Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility, and we are inspired by our vision, to be the organization that champions communities where everyone belongs. To the community, the YMCA of Metro Atlanta is a resource center and a champion for the individuals that we serve. Powered by our exceptional staff and volunteers, the Y delivers transformative programs that build resilience, facilitate achievement, foster belonging, and reach beyond our walls.
Can you share some impact stats or comments about the work being done by your organization?
In 2023, we surveyed members of our membership/wellness facilities to better understand their experience and overall perception of the Y. 91% of Y members achieve personal health and wellness goals at the Y. 93% of Y members believe that the Y is a community resource for improving health and well-being. 94% of Y members report a greater sense of belonging. At the start of the pandemic, the Y made a conscious decision to pivot and address community needs by providing frontline workers emergency childcare and hunger relief. Since March of 2020, the Y has served well over 1 million meals. In alignment with the Y’s Safety Around Water program and its founding of the Atlanta Water Safety Coalition in partnership with the City of Atlanta’s Parks & Recreation Department, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, the American Red Cross, the Greater Atlanta Water Safety Alliance, and WABE, we are focused on drowning prevention. By 2025 we aim to teach 10,000 children from under-resourced communities how to swim, and at the end of 2023, we reached 6,293 children. As an organization founded on volunteerism, and last year alone Y volunteers contributed more than 28,000 service hours across more than 4,050 volunteer experiences such as coaching youth sports, supporting hunger relief programming, assisting with special events, and so much more!
What’s the history of your organization? How and why did it get started?
The YMCA was founded in 1844 in London, England and has grown into one of the largest volunteer organizations in the world. The Y operates in 120 countries and reaches about 64 million people worldwide each year.
The YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta was founded in 1858 with a vision to create an organization that would welcome individuals as they came to Atlanta and provide a safe place for growth, community, and faith. Methodist Minister Basil H Overby, Robert W. Woodruff’s great-grandfather was the Atlanta YMCAs first president. His focus was to give young men a home away from home and a source of spiritual guidance. The Y has grown to meet the city's needs, today serving hundreds of thousands of individuals through numerous membership branches and program sites across greater Atlanta. Serving the Atlanta Metropolitan region for more than 165 years, the Y has been an essential community organization, offering health and wellbeing opportunities for children, teens, adults, and seniors to learn, grow, serve, and thrive. By providing high-quality programs that engage 250,000 children, families, and communities through every stage of development.
What kind of programming do you offer to the community?
We offer early learning and Head Start programming for families who have little ones from infancy to 5 years of age. The Y is the largest early education provider in the state serving more than 2,500 children annually. With a focus on serving under resourced and historically marginalized communities, the Y employs diverse models tailored to unique community needs, all with a shared goal of preparing children for lifelong success through proven, research-based methods in numeracy, language, and literacy. Beneath the umbrella of youth development, we provide youth sports, day camp and residential camp, teen leadership, and after-school programming across Metro Atlanta. Our goal is that youth have access to reimagined extended learning experiences that improve academic achievement and build a generation of change makers. Our goal for teens is that through real world skill development, they are prepared to take ownership of their futures and are empowered to excel in life and positively impact their communities. With an emphasis on “body”, at the core to the work of the Y is our preventative holistic wellness programs and health equity programs that address health disparities. Programs consist of group exercise and fitness, personal coaching/training, adult sports, and weight loss for life- the Y’s signature weight loss program. At the Y, we recognize that health inequities exist based on a person’s zip code and this has informed our health equity or outreach programs since our inception in 1858. These programs consist of water safety and drowning prevention (Safety Around Water/SAW), Y on the Fly- outreach programming that mobilizes unique or standard Y programming, access via Medicaid partnerships with CareSource and Peach State as well as financial assistance to families with varying needs, and hunger relief programming (providing grocery packs of food to families in need).
What problem is your organization trying to solve, and can you tell us more about the issue?
In contemplating our future, through our Y-2025 Strategic Plan we identified a guiding question: What does building healthy mind, body and spirit — with equity at the heart of our work — mean for the Y now and into the future? The heart of our plan builds on what we already do well and adds concentrated rigor to expanding the Y’s impact in six key areas. Under the pillar of Mind, we prioritized: Early Learning to increase access for children and families, explore new models, develop best practices, and influence policy to improve child outcomes. Youth Achievement to provide educational support, social-emotional learning, and real-world skills and workforce development for youth and teens to close the opportunity gap. Within the pillar of Body, we identified the priorities of: Holistic Wellness so that we can be the leading community resource for preventative wellness to reduce chronic and progressive disease. Health Equity to address health disparities across race and socio-economic conditions, lead with education, and provide connections to health services and resources. For the pillar of Spirit, our priorities are: Inclusion + Empowerment, under which we will “create spaces and experiences that foster equity and inclusion, promote understanding and acceptance of people of all faiths and backgrounds, and be an organization that welcomes all. People Are The WHY to connect individual passion to purpose for staff, volunteers, and members with opportunities and experiences for each individual to create positive change in our community.
How do volunteers support your mission? What impact do they have on your work? What difference do they make?
The Y began as an all-volunteer organization, and to this day, volunteers play an integral role in everything we do. From strategic planning to fundraising, from coaching to reading to a child, volunteers are the heart of our Y. When people become a volunteer at the Y, they share their talents, strengths and gifts with those who need it most. Each of our 19 Ys have community engagement boards. Board members are volunteers who serve as the voice of the community to the Y, they’re ambassadors and advocates of the Y, and they connect partners and secure resources to advance the Y’s mission. We also have a young professional's board of Y Ambassador Board members who gather for community service and social opportunities with plans to one day to become a Y Board member.
What’s your biggest highlight or success from the past year?
In November, the YMCA of Metro Atlanta and the Atlanta Hawks announced a multi-year partnership in which the Y and its signature ‘Y’ logo has become the Official Jersey Patch Partner of the Atlanta Hawks. Through this partnership, the Hawks and the Y plan to collaborate on major community initiatives aimed at improving the well-being and health of Atlantans with a focus on increasing access to youth sports, especially basketball. The sport of basketball was invented by Dr. James Naismith in 1891 while teaching physical education at the YMCA International Training School in Springfield, Mass. Our CEO & President Lauren Koontz has shared, “Everything the YMCA of Metro Atlanta does is grounded in meeting the unique needs of communities – and we can’t do it alone. We’re grateful to partner with the Atlanta Hawks. Together we can increase access and involvement and provide the opportunity for more people to discover their potential and thrive.” Through the partnership, Hawks players, coaching staff and talent will amplify the Y’s robust youth programming and create inspirational content for the next generation with authentic stories from executives, coaches and players who started their basketball journey at their local Y. Additionally, the Hawks will also support the Y in a variety of causes in which they share passion: urgent community needs, promoting social responsibility and uplifting inclusive communities with strong DEI values. Utilizing the in-arena experience and its global marketing assets, the Hawks will also launch a series of campaigns to attract new Y members and raise funds to support the Y’s mission.
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?
On average, we need about 300 volunteers or more each month. There are generally four types of volunteer roles at the Y:
What types of projects do you offer? What are your biggest projects available, and needs from volunteers? Tell us about a few different offerings.
Our most turnkey and needed volunteer opportunities directly support day-to-day operations for our facilities. These projects consist of youth sports coaches, packing or distributing food for our hunger relief/mobile market programs, and seasonal events, such as family fairs or resource events. These projects typically have the most significant need. We also have unique youth focused volunteer opportunities that are specific to our youth development programs such as reading to our littlest members in the playcenter, a teen camp volunteer who shadows a camp counselor, and various mentorship and professional development support. As a nonprofit organization, we recognize the value that we can add to for profit organizations by hosting their groups for their service or “Impact” days. We provide tailored volunteer experiences suitable for small to large groups. These experiences typically consist of beautifying our facility grounds or revitalizing our community gardens, preparing STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) educational kits, preparing hygiene kits for our homeless families, facilitating STEAM lesson plans and activities with campers, and so much more!
Who is your volunteer manager, and what’s their favorite thing about working for your organization?
Alexis Slocumb, Director of Social Impact is the volunteer manager for the Y. Alexis’ favorite thing about working for the Y is being able to ideate, plan, and execute dynamic volunteer experiences and programs that are gratifying to the volunteer but more importantly dignifying and soul replenishing to those being served. She believes that it is truly a wonderful feeling to see the mission to impact connection happen in real time in the most genuine and authentic way.
What do volunteers love about working with your organization?
We send out a feedback survey within 24 hours of volunteers completing a project. We have included some of their praises below. “The atmosphere was inviting and met the needs of the community. Attendees were satisfied and pleased.” – Dolapo B. “What I volunteered to do was only a small portion of what was needed to make this a successful project. It is truly a collaborative effort by SO many people!” – Lynn B. “Our group loved volunteering with the Y and would definitely come back to volunteer again. We will also recommend it to other groups at Home Depot looking to volunteer in the community since it was such an impactful experience.” – Madeline W. “I felt soccer helped bring all of the kids together to help community relations.” – Brian W. “The ability to Give back knowing the joy and love this will bring to children in need. Can’t wait for the next opportunity!” – Linda T.
What’s going to be happening with your organization in 2024 that you’re really excited about?
The Y is joining several Atlanta employers in providing summer jobs and internship opportunities for youth in the city. The jobs are part of Atlanta Mayor Andre Dicken's Summer Youth Employment Program, which aims to provide jobs and internship opportunities for Atlanta's youth. Thanks to a grant from the city, the Y will offer 30 summer jobs for youth ages 14-24. The jobs available include camp counselor, swim instructor and lifeguard. We have recently established the African American Circle of Giving, enabling transformative change across our community, touching lives from the earliest learners to young adults. The YMCA acknowledges the profound disparities facing African American children and communities of color, particularly in education and health. By providing targeted support, we can nurture the potential of every child, promote health equity, and foster educational success, ensuring that all children have the foundation they need to thrive. This philanthropic support will invest in early learning and school readiness, water safety education, and scholarships for the young men we support through the Y’s Boys and Young Men of Color strategy. Additionally, throughout 2024 we continue to see tremendous growth in the number of people who are joining the Y. The Y is a powerful association of individuals of all ages and from all walks of life joined together by a shared passion: to strengthen community. With a commitment to nurturing the potential of youth, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility, the Y ensures that every individual has access to the essentials needed to learn, grow, and thrive. Though the world may be unpredictable, one thing remains certain – the Y is and always will be dedicated to building healthy, confident, secure and connected children, families, and communities.
Let’s leave our readers with a list of ways they can jump in and get involved. Tell us how we can support you!
Listen the YMCA of Metro Atlanta’s podcast (Y) Connect! Check out (Y) Connect to hear authentic conversations about everything Y. The podcast is hosted by Allison Toller, Y Chief Social Impact Officer; Zarinah Winston, Center Director of Arthur M. Blank Early Learning Center at E.A. Ware; and Robert Wright, Young Family Y Associate Executive Director. The Y started this podcast as way to share the incredible stories about the people at the Y. In a variety of episodes, we interview community leaders, trailblazers, youth advocates, fitness gurus, pickleball pros, and inspiring fathers, mothers, and children who are all passionate about the Y.
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.