The first annual “Born to Be Cobb Senior” charity ride will start off in the East Cobb area on June 28.
The fundraiser to benefit Cobb Seniors Services and the MUST Ministries Senior Food Programs will begin at 10:30 a.m. at Williamson Bros. BBQ (1425 Roswell Road), and is open to Georgia drivers with motor vehicles.
The journey will conclude in Cartersville at Southern Devil Harley-Davidson (2281 U.S. 411 Highway) and will include live music and food.
The Senior Citizens Council of Cobb is partnering with the Metro Atlanta Motorcycle Riding Community, Williamson Bros. and Southern Devil Harley-Davidson to provide food to seniors who are in need.
Donation tickets are $20; for information and to donate visit seniorsofcobb.org and click on the meetings and events tab or go to at the Senior Citizens Council Facebook event at https://tinyurl.com/y7rzdmts.
For more information and for sponsorship opportunities visit info@seniorsofcobb.org.
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The Cobb County High School Coalition, and our partner Assurant officially dedicated future homeowner David’s beautiful new home in Austell. This is the 28th Habitat home built by the Habitat Club students from Campbell, Harrison, Hillgrove, Pope, and Walton High School. Assurant, a longtime partner dating back years as well, joined the coalition to build our first house of 2025.
For David, who is a single father, homeownership means creating a legacy of love, safety, and opportunity for his family. He’s a dedicated father who works very hard to achieve stability and a safe space for his boys. David works with the US Postal Service and spends his free time outdoors with his two sons, exploring parks and playing sports. He is grateful to the sponsors, donors, and volunteers for making this dream possible.
“The longevity of our Cobb High School Coalition is an amazing accomplishment,” says Kyle Huhtanen, CEO, Habitat for Humanity of NW Metro Atlanta. “We also are grateful for Assurant, our long-time partner who continues to support our mission every year.”
About Assurant Assurant, Inc. is a leading global provider of housing and lifestyle solutions that support, protect, and connect major consumer purchases. The company relocated its headquarters to Cobb County from New York City at the end of 2022. The Fortune 500 company also has numerous other locations, including offices throughout the United States and in 21 countries.
About Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Metro Atlanta In 1985, Chrys and John Street met Millard Fuller, who challenged them to start an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity in Cobb County. They distributed brochures to local churches and gathered 12 people to form a Board of Directors. On April 1, 1986, Cobb County Habitat for Humanity was officially incorporated as an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International. In 2008, the organization expanded to include Douglas and Paulding counties and the name changed to Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Metro Atlanta. Since 1986, nearly 600 homes have been built, rehabilitated, or repaired as part of our pursuit to provide decent, affordable housing in Cobb, Douglas, and Paulding counties. To learn more about the local affiliate, visit habitatnwma.org.
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Janice Overbeck and her daughters, Chandley and Kylie Overbeck, had the privilege of delivering upcycled dog leashes to the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office on May 19, as part of a Family Serve Day initiative with Mount Paran Christian School.
Submitted information and photo:
On April 25, 2025, Mount Paran Christian School hosted its annual “Family Serve Day,” where The Janice Overbeck Real Estate Team partnered with school families for a hands-on community service project with a sustainable twist.
Janice Overbeck and her team visited the school to teach families how to create dog leashes from used plastic grocery bags. Items that are not recyclable through traditional mechanical processes and often end up in landfills. By repurposing these bags, families learned how to give waste new life while also helping local animal rescue efforts.
Families collected and brought their own plastic bags and, with guidance from the Overbeck team, crafted over 50 strong, upcycled leashes. These leashes were then donated to the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office, where they will be used to help rescue and safely transport stray dogs.
On May 19, Janice Overbeck, along with her daughters Chandley Overbeck and Kylie Overbeck, had the privilege of personally delivering the leashes to the Sheriff’s Office.
This project supports the team’s broader mission to combat the global plastic crisis by encouraging creative reuse and promoting sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based products. This collaborative effort not only helped animals in need but also empowered families to be part of a solution. Showing that simple actions can make a lasting impact on both the environment and the local community.
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L to R: John Kone, past president KCMGK; Rosie Teague, KCMGK; Aailyah Reeves, Powers Ferry ES Silver Pen award winner; Jim Perry, past president KCMGK and Philip Gold, VP KCMGK
Submitted information and photo:
Over 30 years ago, Jack Boone of the Kiwanis Club of Marietta Golden K launched a Signature Project for the Club called the Silver Pen Award. This program is now a Georgia District of Kiwanis Program available to fourth grades statewide. We invited local schools to have their fourth grade classes compete for a school-wide Silver Pen Award by completing a writing assignment submitted by the Club.
The title of the essay this year was “The Person I Admire Most.” Each classroom submitted their top two entries to the School Administration, who submitted one from each classroom to the Silver Pen Coordinator for Kiwanis. A panel of professionals and former educators then evaluated the remaining submissions and chose the school winner.
This year Acworth Elementary School, Addison Elementary School, Powers Ferry Elementary School, and Rocky Mount Elementary School accepted our invitation to have their students compete.
The winning 4th grade recipients were: ACWORTH ES – Keyden Kanau; ADDISON ES – Evoleht Haddock; POWERS FERRY ES – Aaliyah Reeves and ROCKY MOUNT ES – Rachael Wilson. Jim Perry, Past President and Silver Pen Coordinator, along with a group of leaders from the Club, presented the awards to the winners in each school during the morning broadcast, so all students could witness the presentation in their respective schools.
“Each winner received a Silver Pen in a velvet sleeve, a Kiwanis Club Pen, 25 golden commemorative, uncirculated one-dollar coins from the U.S. Mint, and an engraved plaque. We enjoyed many great essays from the students this year and congratulate each winner for a job well done. Each classroom winner received a Silver Pen and a Kiwanis Club Pen,” explained Jim Perry, the Silver Pen award presenter.
We are very grateful to the schools for their cooperation in continuing to support this writing program. The Kiwanis Club of Marietta Golden K looks forward to presenting the Silver Pen award again next year and we wholeheartedly extend our congratulations to each award winner.
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PORCH Marietta has been providing healthy snacks for students in Title I schools in Cobb County since 2022.
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PORCH Marietta, an all-volunteer nonprofit dedicated to reducing food insecurity, announces its upcoming event at the Marietta Wine Market (18 Powder Springs Street) on May 17 from 2-4 pm. All 21+ are invited to attend for wine tasting, purchasing and raffle items.
The event supports PORCH Marietta’s PORCH for Schools program. Through this initiative, PORCH provides healthy snacks for students in local Title 1 schools so they can stay fueled up and ready to learn all day. Hungry students can’t focus on learning, and teachers shouldn’t have to pay for students’ snacks themselves.
“We hope to raise enough money to provide for these schools for next school year. Together, we can make a significant difference towards reducing food insecurity in our neighborhood,” said Liz Platner, chapter leader of PORCH Marietta.
Fair Oaks Elementary teacher Carmen Meek commented, “Most of my students are newcomers to this country. These students have very little when they come. As a teacher it is a blessing to know that the PORCH organization has been so generous, faithfully sending healthy and delicious snacks to my students. My students are learning and growing which can make for a long day at school. Many times they need that extra snack to finish their day. They look forward to receiving the snacks. I know their families appreciate it.”
PORCH Communities was started in 2011 in Chapel Hill, and there are now over 550 neighborhoods in 13 states serving their local communities. PORCH chapters have gathered and distributed more than $15 million worth of food to neighbors in need. The PORCH-Marietta chapter was founded in February 2022.
Contributing non-perishable food to 15 local food pantries on a monthly basis is the flagship program of PORCH Marietta. To date, PORCH-Marietta has donated over 100,000 pounds of food to these pantries. They collect food via monthly neighborhood food drives, based on customized wish lists from the pantries. Neighbors put the requested groceries out on their porch and volunteers pick it up and deliver it to the pantries. Currently there are 50 Marietta neighborhoods participating. To get involved or add your neighborhood to the team contact marietta@porchcommunities.org. For more information or to make a financial contribution, visit PORCH Marietta’s website.
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Cobb Community Foundation CEO Shari Martin celebrating with streamers at the 2025 Activate Good event. Photos courtesy Cobb Community Foundation.
Submitted information and photos:
Cobb came together on May 1, 2025, to celebrate a year of shared generosity, collaboration and impact at the second annual Activate Good event, hosted by Cobb Community Foundation (CCF). The evening marked the release of the organization’s 2024 Impact Report and recognized the powerful outcomes that result when of neighbors, donors, nonprofits and businesses working side by side.
Held at The Foxglove in downtown Marietta, the event welcomed approximately 200 guests, including community leaders, fundholders, donors, nonprofit partners and other stakeholders. Together, they reflected on a year when individuals and organizations across Cobb County didn’t just give—they activated good, united by a shared commitment to making life better for all.
“This wasn’t just a celebration—it was a rallying cry,” said Shari Martin, president and CEO of Cobb Community Foundation. “At CCF, we mobilize people, ideas and resources—but real impact happens only when the community is ready to be mobilized. And like it always does, in 2024, Cobb showed up.”
Together, CCF and the Cobb community accomplished extraordinary things:
– Over $6.2 million in grants and scholarships were distributed, with 68% staying right here in Cobb County.
– The Match Magic Giveathon raised a record-breaking $811,000 for 25 local nonprofits—driven by donors, volunteers, and partners who energized the campaign from start to finish.
– Mental health access expanded, early childhood education grew, and nonprofit leaders received critical training—all made possible by individuals and organizations who chose to give back.
– A new initiative, the Be Somebody Savings Fund, launched in partnership with Marietta City Schools, offering students up to $1,000 for reaching key milestones between 9th and 12th grades.
Guests received the 2024 Impact Report and a commitment card listing ways to stay engaged—through fund creation, joining the Catalyst Society, supporting existing programs, or simply sharing ideas.
The evening concluded with applause, gratitude and a shared sense of purpose. “Every student helped, every family lifted, every nonprofit strengthened—it all happened because our community acted together,” Martin said.
To view the full Impact Report or learn how to activate good alongside Cobb Community Foundation, visit cobbfoundation.org.
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The Janice Overbeck Real Estate Team was the proud Title Sponsor of Saturday’s Fiesta 5K Challenge in Cumming, GA. An inspiring annual event benefiting the Emory ALS Research Center. Organized by Cure for ALS, the race united nearly 400 participants in a shared mission: to raise critical funds and awareness for the fight against Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
Janice Overbeck had the proud honor of co-hosting the awards ceremony, celebrating the accomplishments of runners and walkers who showed up rain or shine in support of this life-changing cause.
The Emory ALS Research Center is recognized as a national leader in ALS research and clinical care. The center is at the forefront of uncovering the causes of ALS, pioneering innovative treatment strategies, and advancing clinical trials that offer new hope to patients and their families. Thanks to these efforts, many ALS patients are living longer, higher-quality lives, but the urgency for continued research remains.
“We are honored to support such a meaningful cause and contribute to groundbreaking research that offers hope to so many,” said Janice Overbeck, founder of The Janice Overbeck Real Estate Team. “It was incredible to see our community come together to run, walk, and stand in solidarity with those affected by ALS.”
The Fiesta 5K Challenge has become a beacon of community spirit and advocacy, with proceeds directly benefiting the continued efforts of Emory’s researchers and clinicians.
Photo from left: Janice Overbeck, Chandley Overbeck, Jane Knowles, Aiden Seidell, Katherine KnowlesJanice Overbeck and Meraida, recently retired from Emory ALS clinic handing out awards.
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A wide variety of community groups took part in a cleanup project Saturday morning, bagging several bags of trash along Sewell Mill Creek at East Cobb Park.
It was the third annual spring cleanup organized by the Friends for the East Cobb Park, and included members of the Rotary Club of East Cobb, Boy Scout Troop 1011 and the Cobb County Water System.
“Every year the creek has been cleaner than it was the year before,” reports volunteer Wade Patrick, who submitted the photo above.
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Barbara Kappel, Troop 795 volunteer and Dodgen Middle School teacher. Photos courtesy Troop 795.
Boy Scout Troop 795, based at Mt. Zion United Methodist Church in East Cobb, has been honored by Keep Cobb Beautiful with its Adopt-A-Mile youth group of the year award.
The troop was recognized at the Cobb Sustainability Forum and Expo at Jim Miller Park on April 30. It is given for “an organization that has demonstrated outstanding commitment to environmental stewardship through a wide range of initiatives, activities, and/or programs.”
Jason Lee, a committee member of Troop 795, said those projects include regular cleanups along Johnson Ferry Road.
Accepting the honor on behalf of the troop was Barbara Kappel, the primary adult volunteer for the program and a 6th grade science teacher at Dodgen Middle School.
“The Scout program requires both Service hours and Conservation Service Hours for almost every rank leading up to Eagle,” Lee said. “We are proud to help our local community keep Johnson Ferry Road clean!”
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From L-R: WSB-TV Anchor Linda Stouffer, TNC Academy Graduate Haley Dahl, and WSB-TV Anchor Wendy Corona
Submitted information and photo:
The Tommy Nobis Center, an Atlanta-based nonprofit dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities enter or return to employment, hosted its 27th annual Galaxy of Stars luncheon on Friday, April 25, 2025, at the Cobb Energy Centre.
The event brought together nearly 400 corporate leaders, community supporters, and friends to celebrate the life-changing impact of Tommy Nobis Center’s programs, honor its participants, and raise critical funds to support continued program growth.
This year’s luncheon theme, Empowered, set the tone for a heartfelt and inspiring program emceed by WSB-TV Anchors Linda Stouffer and Wendy Corona. Attendees heard directly from TNC participants, who shared powerful stories of personal growth and expressed gratitude to event sponsors. Guests received handmade Crayon Hearts, crafted from recycled crayons by Academy graduate Haley Dahl, as unique keepsakes of the occasion.
“This year’s event was nothing short of extraordinary,” said CEO Dave Ward. “It was deeply inspiring to hear the powerful stories of success and to honor the true champions who make a difference in our community.”
During the event, Tommy Nobis Center presented three prestigious awards recognizing individuals who have made outstanding contributions to building inclusive communities and advancing employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
Nolan Wilson – Tommy Nobis Rising Star Award Nolan Wilson exemplifies determination and passion for vocational success. When he joined The Academy at Tommy Nobis Center, Nolan had a clear vision: to pursue a career in the trades. With the support of TNC, he crafted his resume, honed his interview skills, and found his dream role as the first HVAC/Plumbing apprentice at MaxAir Mechanical. Nolan’s incredible work ethic, combined with strong support from TNC and MaxAir, continues to propel his professional growth. For Nolan, employment means purpose and an opportunity to show the world the invaluable contributions of people with disabilities.
Laura and Eric Hart – Community Champions Award Laura and Eric Hart are the owners of Gaston Street Eats Co., operating Gaston Street Eats Food Truck and The Cheezy Truck, with a third, Little Cheezy, on the way. Guided by their philosophy of “LOVE, SERVE, CARE,” they are passionate about giving back through their monthly “Give Back” program. Their partnership with Tommy Nobis Center’s EYES Program is one of their most cherished commitments. Through servant leadership and a focus on community strengthening, Laura and Eric are building a legacy of kindness, leadership, and joy that extends far beyond their business.
Kim Menefee – Lifetime Achievement Award Kim Menefee’s career is defined by leadership, innovation, and community impact. As Executive Director of the Cumberland Community Improvement District (CID) and founder of One Cumberland, Kim works to advance vital infrastructure and community initiatives. Prior to her role at the CID, Kim spent 25 years at Wellstar Health System, shaping its brand, community engagement strategy, and government relations. A longtime advocate for community organizations, Kim proudly served on the Tommy Nobis Center Board of Directors, where she helped establish the successful Vehicle Donation Program. Recognized as one of Georgia’s most influential leaders, Kim continues to be a powerful force for positive change across the region.
The event that raised over $250,000 to directly support programs and services for people with disabilities was sponsored by Cobb EMC Foundation, WSB-TV, Georgia Power, and Publix Super Markets Charities. A recording of the event is available at https://tommynobiscenter.org/galaxy.
About Tommy Nobis Center Since 1977, Tommy Nobis Center has helped thousands of individuals find independence and workplace success by empowering people through employment. It envisions supportive communities where people with disabilities are afforded the opportunity to work. For more information, please visit https://tommynobiscenter.org/, or follow Tommy Nobis Center on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn.
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Amanda Arnold, Director of Community Outreach and Kathy Winiarczyk, Business Development Officer – Cobb County with Credit Union of Georgia proudly delivered hundreds of donated items to Loving Arms Cancer Outreach (LACO) this week. The generous contributions were collected across branch locations throughout February and March, all in support of individuals bravely battling cancer.
Janet Graham, Director and Michelle Ferretiz, Development and Outreach Coordinator with Loving Arms Cancer Outreach expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of support from Credit Union members and employees. “These donations mean the world to the families we serve,” said Michelle. “They help remind our patients that they are not alone on their journey.”
Loving Arms Cancer Outreach (LACO), a non-profit organization, is dedicated to providing critical wraparound support to individuals and families affected by cancer. Their services include emotional support groups, educational resources, and crucial financial assistance for those facing financial hardship due to treatment.
“This initiative is a testament to the incredible power of community,” said Amanda. “We’re proud to partner with an organization like LACO that makes such a meaningful impact.”
A heartfelt THANK YOU goes out to all who donated and helped bring comfort and hope to those in need. Together, we continue to make a difference—one kind act at a time.
To learn more about the Credit Union of Georgia Community Foundation, Inc. visit www.cuofga.org/foundation.
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Nicole De Souza of the Walton HS GlamourGals performs a manicure.
Submitted information and photo:
Students from Walton High School’s GlamourGals chapter are making a lasting impact in their Marietta community by forming meaningful connections with local seniors. Through regular visits that include complimentary beauty makeovers and engaging conversations, these students are offering much more than a polished manicure—they’re offering friendship, joy, and a sense of belonging.
For Lauren Cohn, a dedicated member of the chapter, one moment stands out. “I was able to sit down with Joan and truly spend one-on-one time with her. At first, she was a bit shy, but once her favorite song came on, it was all smiles and silly faces. At the end of our visit, she admired her makeup and nails in the mirror. I believe I made her feel happier and prettier,” Lauren shared. “Every visit fills my heart in a different way—and this one was no different.”
New member Briana R. recalls her first experience with gratitude, “I was nervous at first—I thought I might say or do something wrong,” she said. “But the seniors were so kind and welcoming. They made me feel at ease right away. I’m so thankful for this experience and can’t wait to go back.
Katie E., Vice President of the Walton chapter, reflected on the lasting impact of their visits, “Just being there—smiling, laughing, showing we care—makes such a difference.
The seniors are always so touched that we take the time to connect with them,” Katie explained. “These moments remind me to stay positive and cherish every experience.”
Walton High School’s GlamourGals chapter continues to grow, driven by compassion, consistency, and a deep respect for the seniors they serve. Their efforts reflect the heart of GlamourGals’ mission—to reduce elder isolation and inspire empathy in the next generation of leaders.
ABOUT GlamourGals:
GlamourGals, a 501(c)(3) founded in 2000, reduces social isolation by empowering beautiful connections across generations. Our signature beauty makeovers are led by teen-led chapters nationwide that bring honor and companionship to seniors in aged care. Click here for more.
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PeachSkinSheets presented a check for $5,040 to the Cobb Schools Foundation at their headquarters (514 Glover St SE, Marietta, GA 30060) on April 23. This donation, raised through a portion of recent PeachSkinSheets sales, will help fund grants, scholarships, and critical resources for Cobb County students and educators.
This event is part of PeachSkinSheets’ ongoing commitment to education. In December 2024, the company donated four pallets of sheets to families in need, and in 2024 alone, contributed more than $100,000 to schools, teachers, and nonprofits. Their upcoming Teacher Appreciation event in May will also spotlight their continued support for educators across the country.
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The Janice Overbeck Real Estate Team proudly hosted its semi annual First Responders Appreciation Luncheon this Wednesday [April 17], drawing a heartfelt crowd to honor the dedication and service of local heroes. The event, held from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the team’s East Cobb office, welcomed police officers, firefighters, EMTs, military personnel, and other first responders from Cobb County and surrounding areas for a well-deserved barbeque lunch.
This year’s luncheon was a resounding success, with dozens of first responders in attendance. The community showed its gratitude with smiles, handshakes, and warm “thank you’s” throughout the afternoon. Guests enjoyed a delicious spread of barbeque generously provided by Supreme Lending, along with an array of sides and refreshments sponsored by All-Atlanta Ameri Spec, First American Home Warranty, and Arrow Exterminators.
“We are so incredibly grateful for the courage and commitment of our first responders,” said Janice Overbeck. “This luncheon is just a small way for us to say thank you and let them know how much they are appreciated.”
Attendees lined up to grab hotdogs and hamburgers. The event not only offered a hot lunch but also a strong sense of community support and appreciation. Local businesses and citizens were excited to take part in recognizing some of the hardest working men and women in the region.
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Swim Across America, a national nonprofit dedicated to raising money for cancer research through nationwide swimming events has selected Kahn Peterson, an East Cobb resident, to join other elite metro Atlanta swimmers for Swim Across America Atlanta’s 2025 Junior Ambassador program. Kahn is a sophomore at Campbell High School in Smyrna.
Fifteen students from 11 schools were selected out of 50 applicants to serve in the 2025 Junior Ambassador (JA) program for Swim Across America—Atlanta (SAA—Atlanta). This is the first year Peterson has served. This year, he launched the first SAA-Atlanta team from Campbell High School. The team has set a goal to raise $5,000 for Aflac Cancer & Blood Disorders Center of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. To date, SAA—Atlanta has raised $3.7 million.
Junior Ambassadors work in tandem with the Junior Advisory Board and an accomplished Core Event Committee that includes Olympians and master swimmers who are supporting the Atlanta open water event at Lake Lanier Olympic Park on Saturday, September 20, 2025 (www.swimacrossamerica.org/atlanta). This year’s event will be funding 5 young investigators focusing on leukemia, osteosarcoma, neuroblastoma and survivorship research here in Atlanta at the Aflac Cancer & Blood Disorders Center of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.
In 2024, the Junior Advisory Board and Junior Ambassadors collectively raised almost $100,000.
The Atlanta open water event hosts nearly 20 Olympian supporters each year. Olympians swim and volunteer alongside 750 swimmers and volunteers over either a half-mile, one-mile, or 5K course. To join or donate to Peterson’s team, visit his personal fundraising page. You do not have to be a student at Campbell to participate. The entire community is encouraged to be involved!
Kahn tells us that he’s also a competitive swimmer for Swim Atlanta at the Mt. Bethel location, and for the last two years he’s qualified for the Georgia High School Association state meet as a team member at Campbell, where he’s a student in the school’s International Baccalaureate program.
He’s also a summer lifeguard and an assistant coach for his neighborhood swim team in Jacksons Creek, and is recruiting some of his Campbell teammates to join him in the Swim America cause: “Raising money for cancer research through something I love—swimming– is something I am very excited about!:
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The YMCA of Metro Atlanta will host its 62nd Annual Good Friday Breakfast, on Friday, April 18, 2025, from 7:30 to 9:00 a.m. at the Cobb Galleria Centre. This non-denominational event brings together over 800 YMCA friends, members, volunteers and staff each year to celebrate the Y’s mission of building healthy spirit, mind and body for all.
Kevin Greiner, President and CEO of Gas South, will be honored at this year’s breakfast as the recipient of the Bransby Christian Leadership Award, the YMCA’s highest recognition. Named in honor of Joe Bransby, the award recognizes individuals who exemplify extraordinary leadership and service to the community. A longtime and steadfast supporter of the YMCA, Greiner’s visionary leadership and Gas South’s philanthropic generosity have made a profound impact on programs that serve individuals and families across metro Atlanta.
“Kevin has been a dedicated champion of the YMCA of Metro Atlanta for over a decade and served as chair of our Board in 2021 and 2022, where he further demonstrated his compassion and commitment to our community, said Lauren Koontz, president and CEO of the YMCA of Metro Atlanta. His leadership, coupled with Gas South’s support of STEAM education, early learning and our adaptive swim program, serves as a powerful example of how community-driven efforts can create meaningful and lasting change.”
Gas South has been a steadfast supporter of the YMCA, contributing over $1.3 million in lifetime giving along with numerous hours of volunteer time and projects. Their partnership has been especially transformative for the Y’s Adaptive Swim program, which serves individuals with diverse abilities by promoting water safety, building confidence and fostering inclusion. Through their generosity, the Y refined its curriculum, ensuring that instructors received advanced training tailored to participants’ unique needs.
Building on the adaptive swim program’s success has been a new partnership with the Special Olympics which has expanded opportunities in competitive swimming and skill-building. In 2024, the program’s reach doubled, providing life-changing aquatic experiences to over 400 participants of all ages. Gas South has also pledged continued support for 2025, enabling the YMCA to extend these critical programs to even more communities across Metro Atlanta.
Along with adaptive swim, Gas South has been a longtime advocate for the YMCA of Metro Atlanta’s STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) initiatives. Since 2020, the company has invested in the establishment and development of multiple YMCA STEAM Labs enabling their creation and ongoing support. The labs provide educational programming that fosters curiosity, inspires creativity and teaches kids how to succeed.
The Good Friday Breakfast is a longstanding tradition that reflects the YMCA of Metro Atlanta’s dedication to fostering community and shared purpose. This event provides attendees with an opportunity to connect, and recognize the impactful work being done by the YMCA across the region. For more information or to purchase tickets to the Good Friday Breakfast, visit the YMCA website.
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A record number of 40 volunteers picked up 44 bags of trash along Powers Ferry, Terrell Mill and Delk Roads during Powers Ferry Corridor Alliance’s Spring Adopt-A-Mile clean-up with Keep Cobb Beautiful on Saturday, March 29, 2025.
Submitted information and photos:
Powers Ferry Corridor Alliance welcomed a group of 40 volunteers, including District 3 Cobb County commissioner JoAnn Birrell, to its Spring 2025 Adopt-a-Mile event on Saturday, March 29th.
“This was the largest turnout ever, essentially doubling the number of participants from any prior event,” said Patti Rice, the event’s project leader. “It’s amazing and heartwarming to see these people join forces to improve the community’s environment. Forty-four bags of trash is a significant number.”
Area neighborhoods represented included Riverwalk at Wildwood, Riverstone at Wildwood, The Flats at Riverwalk, River’s Call, Woodruff Plantation, Millridge, Sedalia Park, Stratford Grove/Mead/Hyde Park, Valencia Hills and Terrell Mill Estates.
Volunteers enjoyed complimentary refreshments provided by Kroger and a surprise donation of lots of Krispy Kreme donuts!
PFCA conducts the cleanup every spring and fall in partnership with Keep Cobb Beautiful.
ABOUT POWERS FERRY CORRIDOR ALLIANCE
As a non-profit, non-partisan alliance of individuals, HOAs and businesses, the PFCA works to understand community issues, promote quality development, support local schools and help drive the area’s economic vibrancy.For more information, visit powersferryca.com
Event organizer Patti Rice and neighbor Linda Bell proudly show off 44 bags of trash collected along Powers Ferry, Terrell Mill and Delk Roads.Jordan Deeney, pictured with his sons, Maxen and Oliver, were among the nearly 40 community volunteers who picked up 44 bags of trash.District 3 Cobb County Commissioner JoAnn Birrell, left, with event organizer Patti Rice.
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Credit Union of Georgia hosted a Coat Drive to collect new and gently used coats, blankets, hats and gloves to donate to MUST Ministries. Credit Union members and the community came together to support this initiative by donating 61 jackets for men, women and children, 32 blankets and 13 sets of hats, gloves and scarves.
The Credit Union of Georgia Community Foundation is thankful to have played a role in helping those in need stay warm this winter. Thanks to donations like these from our community, MUST Ministries was able to distribute 190,905 items of clothing to those in need last year alone!
“We are incredibly grateful for our ongoing partnership with the Credit Union of Georgia. Time and again, when our community faces challenges, the Credit Union steps up to support us with generous donations and active involvement. MUST Ministries’ ability to serve and make an impact would not be possible without the unwavering support of partners like the Credit Union of Georgia.” – Tom Gonter, MUST Ministries Development Officer
To learn more about the Credit Union of Georgia Community Foundation, Inc. visit www.cuofga.org/foundation.
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The East Cobb Rotary Club proudly announced the distribution of $100,000 to 29 local charities during a special giveback ceremony held on March 4, 2025, at Piedmont Church. These funds were raised through the club’s highly successful annual Dog Days Road Race.
The ceremony brought together representatives from the recipient charities, race sponsors, Rotary members, and community guests to celebrate the collective impact of their efforts. The $100,000 will directly support a diverse array of organizations serving the East Cobb community, focusing on crucial areas such as youth programs, housing, mental health services, and more.
“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who participated in and supported the Dog Days Road Race,” said Jonathan Lyons, the current President of East Cobb Rotary. “This significant contribution reflects the strong commitment of our community to supporting those in need. It is a testament to the power of collective action and the spirit of giving that defines East Cobb.”
The Dog Days Road Race has become a cornerstone event for the East Cobb Rotary, consistently generating substantial funds for local charities. Over the past 19 years, the event has raised and distributed over $1.2 million, directly benefiting the community. More than 10,000 runners have participated in the 5K race, which is held annually at the McCleskey East Cobb YMCA.
This year’s race marks the 20th anniversary of the Dog Days Road Race and is scheduled for August 9, 2025. The East Cobb Rotary invites runners and potential sponsors to join in the celebration and continue the tradition of community support.
“We are excited to celebrate 20 years of the Dog Days Road Race,” said Liz Myers, President-Elect of East Cobb Rotary. “We look forward to another successful event and the opportunity to further our impact in the East Cobb community.”
For more information about the Dog Days Road Race and how to participate or become a sponsor, please visit: https://dogdaysrun.com/.
About East Cobb Rotary:
The East Cobb Rotary is a service organization dedicated to making a positive impact in the East Cobb community and beyond. Through various initiatives and events, the club strives to support local charities, promote goodwill, and foster community engagement. For more information, go to https://www.eastcobbrotary.com/
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Lee Miller of the Foothills District of the Atlanta Area Council for Scouting America (based nearby across from Truist Park) says the organization is inviting all scout members of the council to a service project at East Cobb Park in early May.
It’s a cleanup project of Sewell Mill Creek on May 3 from 10-2, and includes cleaning up debris along the creek, environmental education sessions, team-building activities, and prizes for the most trash collected.
Participants will earn community service hours, learn about conservation and sustainability, improve the local ecosystem and meet other scouts.
Interested scouts should show up at East Cobb Park (3322 Roswell Road) “ready to learn and have fun! Youth and adults of appropriate ages and abilities are welcome. Wear shoes and clothes that can get wet.”
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