East Cobb Community Service

Jim Ellis partners with MUST for 2025 holiday giving campaign

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Jim Ellis partners with MUST for 2025 holiday giving campaign

Submitted information:

The Jim Ellis Automotive Group is proud to announce its ninth annual Holiday Giving Campaign, continuing its tradition of giving back to the Atlanta community. This year, Jim Ellis Automotive will partner with MUST Ministries, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing food, shelter, clothing, job assistance, mental and primary healthcare services and more to our local neighbors in need.

Together, Jim Ellis Automotive and MUST Ministries aim to spread hope and care throughout this holiday season, helping those who need it most.

Every year, Jim Ellis Automotive selects a local charity to support with a Holiday Giving Campaign. MUST Ministries (MUST) is its 2025 recipient. From Nov. 29, 2025 to Jan. 2, 2026, a portion of every new or pre-owned vehicle sold at any of the 21 Jim Ellis family-owned-and-operated dealerships will be donated to MUST. Through campaigns like this, Jim Ellis Automotive has provided over $525,000 in support to community-focused organizations.

MUST has been supporting the metro Atlanta community since 1971, helping individuals and families experiencing homelessness and poverty across nine metro Atlanta counties. Through 54 years of service, MUST meets the needs of more than 55,000 people a year through food, housing, mental and primary healthcare, workforce development, clothing and other programs.

The organization believes that there is no one service that brings people out of poverty or homelessness, so instead, they aim to treat the root causes along with the urgent symptoms of poverty. This means providing critical resources for immediate family needs as well as long-time support for a lasting path to stability.

“At Jim Ellis Automotive, caring for our community is part of who we are,” said Stacey Ellis Hodges, vice president of the Jim Ellis Automotive Group. “The holiday season reminds us of the importance of compassion and generosity, and partnering with MUST Ministries gives us the opportunity to help bring hope and support to those who need it most. Together, we’re working to make a positive difference and strengthen families across our community.”

“MUST Ministries is incredibly proud and grateful for this partnership with Jim Ellis Automative. Also celebrating 54 years of serving our community, Jim Ellis Automotive and MUST Ministries both believe in the power of giving back. This campaign will help fund MUST’s life-changing and often life-saving mission of making sure no one – from a young child to an elderly veteran – is without basic needs nor hope for stability,” said MUST Ministries President & CEO Dr. Ike Reighard.

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Veterans service organization raises $15K in Cobb golf event

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Veterans service organization raises $15K in Cobb golf event

Submitted information and photos:

Connecting Georgia Veterans is pleased to announce the outstanding success of its inaugural Golf Tournament, held at the scenic Bentwater Golf Course in Acworth, Georgia. The event brought together community members, partners, and supporters for a meaningful day of camaraderie, competition, and purpose- all dedicated to strengthening services for Veterans across Georgia.

Over 40 golfers participated in the tournament, enjoying a full 18-hole course, friendly putting contests, and a lively auction featuring donated items that helped boost fundraising efforts. Thanks to the generosity and engagement of participants andsponsors, the event raised nearly $15,000, which will directly support programs and resources for Veterans experiencing hardship.

Tyler Bowser, Program Director of Connecting Georgia Veterans shared, “We are proud to share that this year’s golf tournament raised enough funds to provide emergency lodging for 30 Veteran families. We are deeply grateful to our sponsors and every golfer who participated and made this impact possible. We look forward to teeing off again next year for another outstanding event.” It’s not too late to support the cause. Community members can still contribute by visiting www.cgvets.org to make a donation and help strengthen the network of care for Georgia Veterans.

Veterans service organization raises $15K in Cobb golf event

Veterans service organization raises $15K in Cobb golf event

Veterans service organization raises $15K in Cobb golf event

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Michael Paris named 2025 East Cobb Citizen of the Year

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Michael Paris named 2025 East Cobb Citizen of the Year
Michael Paris, his wife Kim (in black blazer) and their family at Indian Hills Country Club. Photo courtesy of Cobb Chamber.

Submitted information and photo:

The Cobb Chamber’s East Cobb Area Council has selected Michael Paris, President and CEO of the Council for Quality Growth, as its 2025 Citizen of the Year. The Citizen of the Year Awards are given to honor an individual whose impact through the years will be recognized and regarded with pride throughout the area as a role model. These outstanding citizens are chosen for their definable, exceptional deeds, with which he or she has made their community a better place to live. Awards are given based on local area nominations. The 2025 East Cobb Citizen of the Year award was presented at the East Cobb Area Council breakfast at Indian Hills Country Club.

2025 East Cobb Citizen of the Year

Michael Paris, President & CEO, Council for Quality Growth

Michael Paris, a Cobb County native, took the helm at the Council for Quality Growth in late 2003 and has worked to expand the Council and to spread its mission of promoting balanced and responsible growth throughout the metro region and the state. Paris’ steady leadership, quiet influence, and deep commitment have shaped nearly every part of the East Cobb community.

Paris is involved in numerous community and professional activities. His affiliations include the Board of Directors for the Cobb Chamber of Commerce, the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce, and the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, as well as volunteering for the YMCA of Metro Atlanta, the Cobb County Planning Commission, and The Extension. He is a member of the National Association of Industrial and Office Properties, the Urban Land Institute, an Association Member of the Board of the Atlanta Commercial Board of Realtors, and a graduate of both Leadership Cobb and Regional Leadership Institute.

For more than three decades, Paris has been a driving force behind the growth and impact of the YMCA in Cobb County, helping establish new branches, strengthen vital programs, and ensure thousands of families have access to opportunities that enrich their lives. Recently, Paris served on The Extension’s Capital Campaign Committee, raising funds for the 2023 addition of their 56-bed men’s dormitory. Tyler Driver, Executive Director of The Extension, said “He helped the organization raise $7,000,000 in record time so we can serve more people. In the process, the trajectory of the families he has touched is forever changed. They have opportunities they never felt possible because he believed they deserved their best future too.” Throughout his years in Cobb, Paris has consistently put service above self in all he does, dedicating himself to helping improve the quality of life in East Cobb.

For more information about Area Councils, contact Katie Guice at kguice@cobbchamber.org or 770-859-2334. Thank you to Series Presenting Sponsor, Kaiser Permanente, Program Sponsor, Cobb Community Foundation, and Citizen of the Year Award Sponsor, Capital City Bank.

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CFR seeking donations for 2025 ‘Thanks for Giving’ program

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Submitted information:Center for Family Resources
For Dee R., a single mother in Cobb County, this Thanksgiving means more than a meal—it’s a moment of relief, dignity, and hope.
After losing her job, child support, and food assistance all at once, Dee faced a series of hardships that left her struggling to stay afloat. A caring Cobb County School District counselor connected Dee with The Center for Family Resources (CFR), marking a turning point in her story.
Through CFR’s Food Security Program, Dee now shops weekly at the organization’s choice food pantry, selecting groceries her family needs and her child enjoys. “The choice pantry gives families dignity and control,” she says. “When life feels unpredictable, that simple act means everything.”
In July, Dee found new employment and is rebuilding stability for her family. This November, she’ll receive The CFR’s Thanks for Giving food box—complete with everything for a traditional Thanksgiving meal and enough food for the week. Thanks for Giving is a massive, county-wide food drive that helps to feed 1,000 Cobb County families for the entire week of Thanksgiving. Presented by Lockheed Martin, this program relies on monetary and food donations from local businesses, schools, churches, and community groups.
“For families like mine, it’s one less thing to worry about,” Dee says through tears. “We won’t be sad this year.” She says learning to ask for help is a form of strength. “At The Center for Family Resources, it doesn’t feel like charity—it feels like respect, support, and hope.”
The Center for Family Resources has hosted the “Thanks for Giving” food drive for 39 years—helping children and families to have a traditional Thanksgiving meal. “When kids are out of school for Thanksgiving break, a lot of families suddenly lose access to the meals they depend on every day,” says Melanie Kagan, CEO of The Center for Family Resources. 
“In addition, with funding for the SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) program potentially being paused or interrupted, making sure those children are fed isn’t just about providing necessary food— it’s about giving families a little relief, a little dignity, and the chance to truly enjoy the holiday together.”
The organization is grateful to their Presenting Sponsor, Lockheed Martin, as well as the Bountiful Sponsor, Genuine Parts Company; the Gather Sponsors, SouthState Bank and Miller Mechanical Contractors & Engineers; the Cornucopia Sponsors, Renasant Bank, Smith + Howard, and Southwire; and the Friends Sponsors: ASTA America, Chatfield Contracting, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Ed Voyles Automotive, Georgia’s Own Credit Union, Henssler Financial, Huff Electric, JWM Contractors, Marietta Power & Water, Moore Ingram Johnson and Steele, Paraklete Financial, Pinnacle Financial, and Tri-State Utility Products, Inc.
To learn more or get involved, visit TheCFR.org/events/#Thanks. To donate, visit bit.ly/477q45A.

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Aloha to Aging gala ticket and donation deadlines approaching

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Aloha to Aging gala ticket and donation deadlines approaching
For a larger view, click here.

Submitted information:

There’s still time to join us for our G.A.L.A. – Games and Laughter Aloha Style, but don’t wait too long—important deadlines are approaching!

Event Details

Event Date: November 7th

Location: Catholic Church of St. Ann, 4905 Lower Roswell Rd. Marietta, GA 30062

Ticket Deadline: October 30 – Just 2 weeks away!

Reserve your seats for a night of laughter, auctions, dinner, and Aloha Spirit—all supporting caregivers and older adults through Aloha to Aging’s life-changing programs.

Silent Auction Item Deadline: October 22 (2881 Canton Rd. Marietta)

Would you like to donate a basket or item for our silent auction? Your generous contribution helps us raise even more to fund respite care, caregiver education, memory programs, and community wellness initiatives.

Every ticket, sponsorship, and auction item helps lift those who give so much of themselves and ask for so little.

Get Tickets: GALA Tickets and Donation Form Link

Donate an Auction Item: GALA Tickets and Donation Form Link

Can’t attend? Make a donation: Monetary Donation Link

Mahalo for sharing in the Aloha Spirit and helping us raise our glasses—and raise hope—together!

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Schoolhouse Brewing to hold 3rd ‘Dogs Gone Wild’ benefit

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Submitted information:

Schoolhouse Brewing is once again inviting beer lovers and dog owners to grab a leash and a pint glass for its third annual Dogs Gone Wild event on Saturday, November 8, 2025, from 12 to 6 p.m. at the brewery’s Marietta taproom. The event raises funds for the Homeless Pets Foundation, helping local rescue dogs find their forever homes.

Guests can bring their dogs to the brewery for a photo session, where each pup will be featured on a limited-edition Dogs Gone Wild beer label. Participants receive a commemorative glass and one free beer at the event. The finished beer, featuring the printed labels, will be available for pickup about two to three weeks after the event, once brewing and printing are complete.

“Dogs Gone Wild started as a fun way to bring together our love for beer and dogs, and it’s become one of our favorite community traditions,” said Ashley Good, Director of the Homeless Pets Foundation. “It’s a day that celebrates local rescue work, families, and the great people who open their homes to pets in need.”

How to Participate

• $30 Donation: Includes your dog’s photo on the Dogs Gone Wild label, a commemorative glass, and one free beer.

• Add-On Packages:

  •  $17 4-Pack: Four 16-ounce cans featuring your dog’s label.
  • $60 12-Pack: Includes a commemorative 2025 poster.
  • $99 Case (24 Beers): Includes a poster and a 10×6 portrait of your dog on the Dogs Gone Wild background.

All proceeds benefit the Homeless Pets Foundation, a local nonprofit dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming homeless and abandoned animals across the Atlanta area.

The event will feature live music, local vendors, and plenty of fresh Schoolhouse beer, all in a relaxed, dog-friendly atmosphere. It’s a community day meant for good beer, good people, and even better dogs.

Pre-registration is encouraged and can be completed visiting www.schoolhousebeer.com.

Event Details

When: Saturday, November 8, 2025 | 12–6 p.m.

Where: Schoolhouse Brewing – 840 Franklin Ct, Marietta, GA 30067

Benefiting: Homeless Pets Foundation

For more information, visit schoolhousebeer.com or follow @schoolhousebeer on social media.

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Cobb Diaper Day donation drive continues through Oct. 28

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Cobb Diaper Day donation drive continues through Oct. 28

Submitted information:

The 17th Annual Cobb Diaper Day is being held on Tuesday, October 28. Through the efforts of the Barbara Hickey Children’s Fund – Cobb Diaper Day Committee, more than two million diapers have been donated to assist low-income families in Cobb County since the program’s founding. This year’s goal is to collect over 100,000 diapers.

Organizations, companies and individuals are encouraged to participate in a variety of ways:

  • Make a donation at www.cobbdiaperday.com.
  • Purchase diapers for delivery through Amazon.
  • Declare a “Diaper Day” within your workplace, organization, neighborhood, or social circle to collect diapers.
  • Drop off donations during our community collection event at the Cobb EMC Solar Flower Gardenin Marietta on October 28, 2025, from 2 PM to 6 PM.

Cobb Diaper Day was founded in 2008 by the late Barbara Hickey to help families in Cobb County. Barbara envisioned the community coming together to support local families in need and reminded us that often it is the little things in life that make the biggest difference.

For many low-income families, diapers represent a daily financial strain. Prolonged use of a wet diaper can lead to diaper rash and additional stress for both children and parents. Families often face the difficult choice between purchasing food or diapers, especially since:

  • Food stamps do not include hygiene products such as diapers.
  • On average, diapers cost more than $100 per month.
  • Daycare centers require parents to provide diapers.

To help ease some of the burdens of the thousands of families in critical need, diaper donations will be distributed to local nonprofits, including:

  • Center for Family Resources
  • Cobb & Douglas Public Health
  • Communities In Schools Georgia in Marietta/Cobb County
  • LiveSafe Resources
  • MUST Ministries
  • Ser Familia
  • Simple Needs GA
  • Sweetwater Mission

For additional information, please visit www.cobbdiaperday.com or donate to the Barbara Hickey Children’s Fund to support the efforts. To arrange for a diaper pick-up or for any other questions, please email DiaperDayCobb@gmail.com.

About The Barbara Hickey Children’s Fund

Established in 2008 as a 501(c)3 fund under the Cobb Community Foundation, by Barbara Hickey and a group of dedicated community leaders. Through its signature initiative, Cobb Diaper Day, the Fund raises awareness of the critical need, and significant expense, of diapers for families in need. Too often, parents must make the difficult choice between purchasing food or diapers. Since its inception, Cobb Diaper Day has provided nearly two million diapers to families across Cobb County. Learn more by visiting the Barbara Hickey Children’s Fund.

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ECBA seeks donations for public safety appreciation event

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East Cobb Public Safety Appreciation Dinner

The East Cobb Business Association, in conjunction with the Cobb Chamber of Commerce and the Cobb County Public Safety Foundation, is asking for donations for its 13th annual Public Safety Appreciation Celebration.

It’s an evening in which officers and staff of Cobb Police Precinct 4 and their spouses enjoy food, entertainment and relaxation. The festivities include gift cards and other items to be given away.

The ECBA says it prefers gift cards, “especially gas cards, big box stores, restaurants and AMEX, VISA/MC gift cards” in amounts of $25, $50 or $100.

“Help us make sure that EVERY Precinct 4 officer will receive a special door prize,” says Susan Hampton, the event’s coordinator.

Donations are being accepted through Nov. 3.

You can make donations online at the Cobb Public Safety Foundation website or contact her at 404-218-6216 or Susan.Hampton6216@gmail.com.

If you’re writing a check, make it payable to “CCPSF, Inc.” and include “public safety celebration” in the memo line.

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2-day walk for breast cancer programs includes East Cobb area

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2-day walk for breast cancer programs includes East Cobb area

The Georgia 2-Day Walk for Breast Cancer, which takes place Saturday and Sunday in 20- and 10-mile increments, respectively, will traverse part of the East Cobb area on Sunday.

For a larger view, click here.

The Georgia Breast Cancer Alliance said that Sunday’s 10-mile route would cover areas in the Powers Ferry Road corridor, up to Delk Road, and then back down to its starting point at the Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel (see route map).

The event begins at the hotel on Saturday and will cover 20 miles in the Cumberland and Vinings areas, with the proceeds to benefit health and breast cancer programs across the state.

The organizations include walks sponsors Renasant Bank (presenting), WellStar Health System, Ankle & Foot Centers of Georgia, SCANA Energy, EZBO Foundation, Sports Radio 680 The Fan, Piedmont Realty Trust, Northside Hospital Cancer Institute, East Georgia Cancer Coalition, The Mad Italian, Grail, AK Pride Financial, Ernst Concrete, Honda Powersports and The Atlanta Braves Foundation

Here’s more information about registration and pledges; and here’s an FAQ with more general information about the event

For more information or to support GAABC, please visit https://gaabc.org.

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Grace Resurrection Methodist hosts 2nd mini-day of service

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Grace Resurrection Methodist hosts 2nd mini-day of service

Submitted information and photos:

More than 60 volunteers from Grace Resurrection Methodist Church (GRMC) came together recently for the church’s 2nd Annual Mini-Day of Service, demonstrating the congregation’s commitment to community care and compassion.

In just a few hours, volunteers assisted five local nonprofit organizations by:

  • Making sandwiches for individuals in need
  • Packing sandwich kits for children of incarcerated parents
  • Assembling hygiene kits and cutlery sets for those experiencing homelessness
  • Preparing boxes of supplies for U.S. military personnel serving abroad

Through this effort, GRMC was able to provide essential items to The Zone of Davis Direction, MUST Ministries, Project Mail Call, and Kids2Leaders, extending tangible support to some of the community’s most vital service organizations.

“This event is a reminder of what can happen when people of faith come together with a heart for service,” said Senior Pastor Rev. James Williams. “We are grateful for every volunteer who gave their time to make a difference.”

The Mini-Day of Service is one of many ways GRMC lives out its mission of “Living in Grace and Sharing God’s Love.”

For more information about Grace Resurrection Methodist Church and upcoming service opportunities, visit: www.graceresurrection.org, and follow the church on social media on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn. You can view worship services and podcast recordings on YouTube @graceresurrectionMC.

About Grace Resurrection Methodist Church

Grace Resurrection Methodist Church is a vibrant, welcoming congregation dedicated to “Living in Grace, Sharing God’s Love.” Located at 1200 Indian Hills Parkway in Marietta, Ga., the church is a place for spiritual growth, connection, and impact with in-person services each Sunday at 11 a.m. For more information, visit www.graceresurrection.org or call 678 653 9790.

Grace Resurrection Methodist hosts 2nd mini-day of service

Grace Resurrection Methodist hosts 2nd mini-day of service

Grace Resurrection Methodist hosts 2nd mini-day of service

Send Us Your News!

Let East Cobb News know what’s going on with your organization, or about any recognitions, to share with the community. We love to get photos and stories like the above, as well as calendar event listings and more.

We want to be the go-to source for all the many ways people in East Cobb are involved in the community.

It’s what we call The Power of Local, and we’d love for you to take part!

Pass along your details/photos/videos/information to: editor@eastcobbnews.com, and please observe the following guidelines to ensure we get everything properly and can post it promptly.

Send the body of your announcement, calendar item or news release IN TEXT FORM ONLY in the text field of your e-mail template. Reformatting text from PDF, JPG and doc files takes us longer to prepare your message for publication.

We accept PDFs as an accompaniment to your item. Images are fine too, but we prefer those to be JPG files (more than jpeg and png). PLEASE DO NOT send photos inside a PDF or text or any other kind of file, but d0 send them as attachments to your email.

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Wheeler HS student’s project aids Kennestone ICU patients

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Wheeler HS student's project aids Kennestone ICU patients

Submitted information and photo:

Seventeen-year-old Aryan Agar, a senior at Wheeler High School, has transformed his hospital volunteer experience into a grassroots movement called Critical Kindness, bringing comfort and compassion to critically ill patients at Wellstar Kennestone Hospital’s ICU.

Aryan has been volunteering at Wellstar Kennestone since his freshman year and quickly saw a gap: many ICU patients receive little human interaction beyond nurses and physicians. “I could see how lonely some of them felt,” Aryan recalls. “I wanted to do something small but meaningful to show they’re cared for.”

With Critical Kindness, Aryan assembles and delivers comfort kits containing lip balm, non-slip socks, stress balls, small stuffed toys, and handwritten notes of encouragement. Each item is chosen to be safe and practical for ICU settings while offering a human touch.

The response has been immediate and heartfelt. Families of patients have praised Aryan’s thoughtfulness, and several patients have shared how these little gestures brightened their days. “It’s amazing to see someone so young caring for strangers in such a meaningful way,” said one family member. Hospital staff have also taken note, with nurses frequently thanking him for making their patients feel seen and valued.

“Critical Kindness started as a small act of compassion, but it’s become a way to restore dignity and connection for people going through some of the hardest moments of their lives,” Aryan said. “I hope it inspires other students to find ways to serve their communities.”

Call to Action

Critical Kindness is seeking community support to expand its reach to more ICU patients. The organization welcomes donations of safe comfort items, financial contributions, and volunteer help to grow its impact.

To learn more or get involved with Critical Kindness, visit its website.

Send Us Your News!

Let East Cobb News know what’s going on with your organization, or about any recognitions, to share with the community. We love to get photos and stories like the above, as well as calendar event listings and more.

We want to be the go-to source for all the many ways people in East Cobb are involved in the community.

It’s what we call The Power of Local, and we’d love for you to take part!

Pass along your details/photos/videos/information to: editor@eastcobbnews.com, and please observe the following guidelines to ensure we get everything properly and can post it promptly.

Send the body of your announcement, calendar item or news release IN TEXT FORM ONLY in the text field of your e-mail template. Reformatting text from PDF, JPG and doc files takes us longer to prepare your message for publication.

We accept PDFs as an accompaniment to your item. Images are fine too, but we prefer those to be JPG files (more than jpeg and png). PLEASE DO NOT send photos inside a PDF or text or any other kind of file, but d0 send them as attachments to your email.

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Pope HS unveils Matt Hobby Field to honor former student

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Pope HS unveils Matt Hobby Field to honor former student

Friday was the 20th anniversary of a fundraiser to benefit childhood cancer research in the memory of former Pope High School student and football player Matt Hobby.

Before the football game against Lassiter, the school announced that it was designating the sports stadium Matt Hobby Field.

Hobby died of Ewing Sarcoma, an aggressive form of cancer, in 2006, right before his graduation, and a year after the Rally Foundation had been formed to conduct childhood cancer research.Matt Hobby Game

Each year during the football season, a Pope home game is designated as a fundraiser for the Rally Foundation.

At that fundraiser, special t-shirts are sold, and a player is honored who wears Hobby’s jersey No. 70. That player is chosen before the season by coaches who “best exemplifies Matt’s qualities.”

This year, No. 70 is James Burns, and he’s wearing that shirt all season. Here are all the No. 70 recipients, starting in 2012.

“When Matt realized he would not survive cancer, he asked that money be raised for childhood cancer research so younger kids could live,” said Dean Crowe, founder and CEO of Rally Foundation, earlier this week.

“In 2005, he stood in uniform on the gridiron as the Pope community rallied around him, beginning a tradition that became the Matt Hobby Classic. Since then, 4 Quarters 4 Research has raised more than $450,000 at Pope alone and spread to schools nationwide, and it proves that Matt’s legacy of hope and generosity is still changing lives 20 years later.”

In addition to football, Pope’s soccer and lacrosse teams also compete at what is now Matt Hobby Field, along with track and field athletes.

Lassiter won the game 49-7.

To learn more about Rally Foundation, visit its website and follow on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn.

Pope HS unveils Matt Hobby Field to honor former student

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Center for Family Resources launches 2025 Thanks for Giving

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Center for Family Resources launches 2025 Thanks for Giving

Submitted information:

This November, The Center for Family Resources (CFR) will kick off its 39th annual Thanks for Giving campaign, a longstanding community initiative dedicated to supporting Cobb County families facing food insecurity during the Thanksgiving holiday. The campaign provides families with a full Thanksgiving meal and enough groceries to sustain children while schools are closed for the holiday break.

In 2024, CFR distributed more than 1,000 food boxes (some 53,200 pounds of food) and stocked nearly 18,000 pounds of pantry staples, extending support well beyond the holiday season. This year, a new kickoff day for food drop-off—Friday, November 14—will help streamline packing and delivery to local schools and families.

The Thanks for Giving campaign helps families by:

  • Ensuring children who rely on school meals don’t go hungry during the break
  • Providing a full Thanksgiving dinner for families in need
  • Offering a week’s worth of groceries to reduce stress and restore dignity
  • Making healthy food accessible when it’s often out of reach

Community involvement is essential to the success of this campaign. The CFR invites businesses, civic groups, faith organizations, and individuals to be part of this powerful movement. Your involvement helps transform a week of worry into a season of joy for families who need it most. 
Ways to support the campaign include:

  • Sponsoring the campaign to help fund food purchases and logistics
  • Donating funds to support meal boxes and pantry staples
  • Hosting a food drive to collect non-perishable items
  • Volunteering to help pack and distribute food boxes
Together, we can ensure that every family in Cobb County has the opportunity to celebrate Thanksgiving with nourishment, dignity, and hope. To learn more, to donate, or to get involved in volunteering to sort, box and help distribute food between Nov. 14 & Nov. 17-21, visit http://bit.ly/477q45A. If you have questions, please contact Melissa O’Brien at melissaobrien@thecfr.org. 

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Pope HS to hold 20th Matt Hobby Classic for cancer research

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Submitted information:Pope HS to hold 20th Matt Hobby Classic for childhood cancer

This fall, two milestone anniversaries come together in the fight against childhood cancer. Rally Foundation for Childhood Cancer Research is celebrating 20 years of funding innovative research, supporting families and advocating for better treatments. At the same time, Pope High School will host its 20th annual Matt Hobby Classic football game on Friday, September 19, at 7:00 p.m. at Pope High School, 3001 Hembree Road, Marietta, GA 30062. The annual game has supported Rally Foundation since its beginning. 

The Matt Hobby Classic honors the memory of Pope student and football player Matt Hobby, who was diagnosed in 2003 with Ewing sarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer that develops in and around the bones. With the encouragement of his teammates and the Pope community, Matt vowed to “STANDTOUGH” through treatment. He passed away on May 30, 2006, just days after his high school graduation. Before his passing, Matt asked his parents to keep raising money for research so that “the little kids with cancer get a chance to live.”

The Pope community, together with Matt’s family and Rally’s founder Dean Crowe, turned his request into action. In 2005, they hosted the very first 4 Quarters 4 Research (4Q4R) game, which was Rally Foundation’s first fundraiser. Buckets were passed through the stands to collect spare change in support of childhood cancer research. That event later became known as the Matt Hobby Classic. Over the past 20 years, Pope High School has raised more than $450,000 through the annual event, including more than $33,000 last year alone. The 4Q4R idea also spread to schools across the country, multiplying Matt’s legacy and fueling childhood cancer research nationwide.

Rally Foundation was founded in 2005 with the mission to fund the best research wherever it takes place. Over the last 20 years, Rally has awarded more than $40.5 million in research grants through more than 680 projects across the United States and around the world. From its first $5,000 grant in 2006 to a record-breaking $5.5 million in 2025 alone, Rally’s funding has helped advance safer, more effective treatments for kids with cancer.

“When Matt realized he would not survive cancer, he asked that money be raised for childhood cancer research so younger kids could live,” said Dean Crowe, founder and CEO of Rally Foundation. “In 2005, he stood in uniform on the gridiron as the Pope community rallied around him, beginning a tradition that became the Matt Hobby Classic. Since then, 4 Quarters 4 Research has raised more than $450,000 at Pope alone and spread to schools nationwide, and it proves that Matt’s legacy of hope and generosity is still changing lives 20 years later.”

About Rally Foundation for Childhood Cancer Research:
Childhood cancer is the number one disease killer among children in the United States. In 2025, Rally Foundation for Childhood Cancer Research (Rally), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, proudly celebrates 20 years of impact, dedication and progress in the fight against childhood cancer. Rally empowers volunteers nationwide to raise awareness and funds for research to find better treatments with fewer long-term side effects and, ultimately, cures. Rally received the Independent Charities Seal of Excellence and GuideStar Valued Partner seal, and according to independently audited financials’ five-year average results, 93 cents of every dollar raised supports Rally’s mission.

To learn more about Rally Foundation, visit www.rallyfoundation.org and follow Rally Foundation on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn.

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Cobb Community Foundation selects Giveathon non-profits

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Cobb Community Foundation selects Giveathon non-profits

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On September 10, Cobb Community Foundation (CCF) and a panel of 30 trained community leaders selected and finalized 27 Cobb County nonprofits to participate in this year’s highly anticipated Match Magic Giveathon. The announcement marks the start of a season of giving that rallies the community around organizations working to meet critical local needs.

Through a rigorous review process, volunteer leaders spent hours in small and large groups evaluating over 50 applications and determining which nonprofits would take part. The result: a dynamic cohort of organizations that reflect the diversity and strength of Cobb’s nonprofit sector.

Fundraising kicks off November 11 and runs through December 2, 2025—but right now, we’re building the Match Pool, a special fund powered by generous donors to boost every gift—and we’d love your support. Want to help make the magic happen? See details below.

What is Match Magic?

Match Magic is Cobb Community Foundation’s signature giving campaign that provides local nonprofits with tools, visibility, and matching dollars to amplify their year-end fundraising. Last year, thanks to generous donors, we raised over $800,000 in donations for 25 nonprofits in 2 weeks—a story that made waves in local media.

The results were extraordinary.

  •  $700,000+ raised by participating nonprofits in 2-weeks
  • $100,000+ raised as a “match pool” by CCF
  • $800,000+ TOTAL distributed to 25 Cobb nonprofits
  • 64% gained new donors
  • 76% saw larger gifts from existing supporters

“This is what collective giving can do. The generosity of our donors and the commitment of our nonprofits make this possible,” said Shari Martin, President & CEO of Cobb Community Foundation. “We’re proud to provide the infrastructure, tools, and support to help nonprofits succeed, and we can’t wait to see what this community can achieve together this year.”

Help Us Build the Match Pool

To make Match Magic possible, CCF is raising a Match Pool that proportionally boosts every community gift, depending on how much the organization raises overall. Last year, a $108,000 Match Pool helped amplify nearly $700,000 in donations, giving most contributions a 15% boost.

This year, CCF is hoping to raise $200,000 for the Match Pool. Community members and donors are invited to contribute here: http://bit.ly/45bT9LT, or call or email Cobb Community Foundation directly.

“We are grateful to Walton Communities for once again seeding our 2025 Match Pool with a generous $50,000 gift, and to the Marietta Daily Journal (MDJ) for helping to spread the word by distributing our Match Magic Giving Guide throughout the county,” Martin added.

Supporting the pool means you’re fueling ALL 27 nonprofits at once — it’s a gift to the whole community.

Announcing our 2025 Participating Nonprofits 

  1. Acworth Cultural Arts

  2. Aloha to Aging, Inc

  3. Arts Bridge Foundation

  4. Atlanta Humane Society

  5. Backpack Blessings, Inc.

  6. Blue Thanksgiving, Inc.

  7. Circles Cobb

  8. Cobb County Bar Association CSF Children’s Emergency Fund

  9. Cobb Police Athletic League Inc

  10. CobbWorks, Inc.

  11. Cumberland Counseling Centers

  12. Family Life Restoration Center, Inc.

  13. Food Security for America

  14. Four Corners Group Inc

  15. Friends of The Strand, DBA Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre

  16. Good Samaritan Health Center of Cobb

  17. Highland Rivers Foundation

  18. LiveSafe Resources

  19. Loving Arms Cancer Outreach, Inc.

  20. Matthew 25:40 Car Care Ministry

  21. NAMI Cobb (local affiliate of National Alliance on Mental Illness – Georgia)

  22. Reflections of Trinity Inc.

  23. Serenade Heights, Inc.

  24. Simple Needs GA, Inc.

  25. The Center for Children and Young Adults

  26. Tillman House Resource Center

  27. Youth Centric, Inc.

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East Cobb faith communities help dedicate 25th Habitat home

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East Cobb faith communities help dedicate 25th Habitat home

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On Sunday, the Cobb Interfaith Habitat Coalition (CIHC) dedicated their 25th Habitat house that will soon be a home for a Cobb County Public Servant. 

The future homeowner, D, is a Project Utility Manager at the Cobb County Department of Transportation, helping to ensure the county’s residents enjoy quality infrastructure. Despite a stable career and doing overtime work he enjoys, D and his wife Dreika can’t find decent, affordable housing in the county he serves. Instead, they rent a small townhome just outside of Cobb, where they battle with crowding and substandard conditions.

The couple are raising a unique blended family with children ranging in age from 26 to one-year-old, with four living at home and another one due soon. Dreika keeps an immaculate home, but her efforts can’t hide the poor maintenance of the unit – significant water damage, leaky plumbing, and a basement that is always flooded. With safety concerns in the neighborhood, the family is cramped in their small space.

D & Dreika say they felt like they won a prize when they were selected to build through Habitat and are looking forward to watching their kids have a safe yard in which to play. For their family, homeownership is more than walls and a roof, it’s the promise of stability, safety, and cherished memories.

This year’s faith groups include Smyrna First United Methodist Church, Bethany United Methodist Church, East Cobb Islamic Center, Islamic Center of Marietta, Temple Kol Emeth, Temple Sinai, Ahavath Achim Synagogue, St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, Log Cabin Church, Covenant Church, Unity North of Atlanta Church, Macland Community Church, First Presbyterian Church of Marietta and Due West Methodist Church.

Corporate partners include Pinkerton & Laws Construction of Atlanta, Atlanta West Carpets, Moore Colson, Fortune-Johnson, Dwell Design Studio, Nissan, Burke-Moore and Sentinel Lake Neighborhood.

Henry Hene, Coalition Chair, says, “Staying together as an extremely diverse coalition for 25 years has not always been easy, but we have remained steadfastly committed to our mission of: ‘We Build to Coexist; We Coexist to Build’. We build together for a larger purpose than our individual organizations.”

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Non-profits meet in Cobb to navigate funding uncertainty

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Non-profits meet in Cobb to navigate funding uncertainty
Rev. Dr. Dwight “Ike” Reighard, President & CEO of MUST Ministries.

Submitted information and photo:

On August 26, 73 nonprofit executives and board members came together for a special session of the Ignite Nonprofit Learning Series, hosted by Cobb Community Foundation (CCF) in partnership with United Way of Greater Atlanta, Mauldin & Jenkins, and the Georgia Center for Nonprofits (GCN).

Titled Strategic Options for Sustaining Nonprofit Impact, the session addressed the growing uncertainty many nonprofits face in today’s funding landscape—driven by potential federal budget cuts and increased competition for philanthropic dollars.

Held at the Cobb Chamber of Commerce, the event provided timely context on today’s challenges and equipped attendees with tools to assess their organization’s sustainability—and explore meaningful paths forward, from partnerships to internal pivots and beyond.

“In the face of shrinking funding and growing uncertainty, nonprofits must ask tough questions about sustainability and impact. Our program empowers leaders to make mission-driven decisions and preserve their impact on the community in the face of these challenges,” said Karen Beavor, CEO of Georgia Center for Nonprofits.

What’s next?

Participating nonprofits will now dive deeper with follow-up engagements, including:

  • A personalized Rapid Sustainability Assessment (RSA) – a practical tool developed by GCN to help nonprofits evaluate their operational and financial health
  • Customized insights into each organization’s sustainability profile
  • Cohort-based advisory sessions, led by GCN, for those seeking additional support—featuring expert guidance, peer learning, and practical strategies to strengthen partnerships, navigate internal pivots, and more.

“This program is about more than assessing challenges—it’s about planning for impact in the long term,” said GCN Director of Consulting Jim Williams-Neal. “We’re proud to support nonprofits as they explore what sustainability means for them.”

Investing in Nonprofit Impact

Both the session and follow-up support are being provided at no cost to participating organizations, as part of a broader investment by Cobb Community Foundation and United Way to strengthen the missions and long-term impact of nonprofits serving Cobb County.

“This is the kind of collaborative investment that is critically needed right now,” said Shari Martin, President & CEO of Cobb Community Foundation. “Just because funding is reduced doesn’t mean the needs have gone away. People who need help with housing, healthcare and food are still going to need help, and they are going to turn to our nonprofits. It is in all of our best interests for them to be able to meet these critical needs, but that is going to require some serious outside-the-box thinking.  GCN is the expert.”

About CCF’s Ignite Nonprofit Learning Series

Hosted by Cobb Community Foundation, the Ignite Series convenes nonprofit CEOs, Executive Directors, and board members throughout the year to explore timely challenges, learn from expert facilitators, and strengthen relationships across the sector.

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Let East Cobb News know what’s going on with your organization, or about any recognitions, to share with the community. We love to get photos and stories like the above, as well as calendar event listings and more.

We want to be the go-to source for all the many ways people in East Cobb are involved in the community.

It’s what we call The Power of Local, and we’d love for you to take part!

Pass along your details/photos/videos/information to: editor@eastcobbnews.com, and please observe the following guidelines to ensure we get everything properly and can post it promptly.

Send the body of your announcement, calendar item or news release IN TEXT FORM ONLY in the text field of your e-mail template. Reformatting text from PDF, JPG and doc files takes us longer to prepare your message for publication.

We accept PDFs as an accompaniment to your item. Images are fine too, but we prefer those to be JPG files (more than jpeg and png). PLEASE DO NOT send photos inside a PDF or text or any other kind of file, but d0 send them as attachments to your email.

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Cobb Collaborative concludes Summer Reading Program

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Cobb Collaborative Summer Reading program concludes

Submitted information and photos:

Summer provides a unique opportunity for parents and children to connect, learn, and grow together. That is exactly what Cobb Collaborative aimed to foster through their third annual Summer Reading program.

In partnership with Cobb County Public Library, and McCleskey-East Cobb Family YMCA, Marietta City Schools and YELLS, Inc. Cobb Collaborative brought weekly literacy programming and free books to children across four multi-family communities in Marietta.

“This summer, we not only brought books—we also brought games, hands-on learning activities, and opportunities for joyful engagement,” said Alison Nyarko, Cobb Collaborative’s Director of Early Childhood Programs. “It was inspiring to see how eager the children were to participate, whether they were solving puzzles, coloring, or exploring new stories. These moments, as simple as they may seem, gave children of all ages the opportunity to learn through play, and showed them that they are seen, valued, and deeply cared for.”The program encouraged participation in Cobb County Public Library’s Summer Reading Challenge and engaged 63 active readers.. Children were encouraged to track their reading weekly, resulting in a remarkable 48,633 minutes of reading—a 70% increase from last year and equivalent to more than 33 days of continuous reading.

“The laughter, the dancing, the excitement as kids picked out their own books—it’s all a reminder that reading is fun, social, and deeply meaningful,” Nyarko added. “A single book can spark imagination, strengthen bonds, and plant the seeds for lifelong learning. Our summer events gave families opportunities to connect, learn, and grow together.”

Each week, families also received resources from The Basics Cobb County, an initiative of Cobb Collaborative grounded in five science-based parenting principles that support early brain development. Materials were shared in both English and Spanish, and included videos, printed tools, and playful learning activities.

The summer series concluded with a celebration attended by Dr. Grant Rivera, Superintendent of Marietta City Schools, and Blue from Positive Childhood Alliance Georgia, adding fun and reinforcing the message that safe, connected relationships are key to every child’s success. Dr. Rivera emphasized how the school district is there to support every student, every classroom, and every family.

As the school year begins, Cobb Collaborative continues its literacy efforts through Basics Playground Paloozas, Little Free Library restocks, family reading kits, and community book distributions throughout the county.

Cobb Collaborative concludes Summer Reading Program

Cobb Collaborative concludes Summer Reading Program

Cobb Collaborative concludes Summer Reading Program

Cobb Collaborative concludes Summer Reading Program

Send Us Your News!

Let East Cobb News know what’s going on with your organization, or about any recognitions, to share with the community. We love to get photos and stories like the above, as well as calendar event listings and more.

We want to be the go-to source for all the many ways people in East Cobb are involved in the community.

It’s what we call The Power of Local, and we’d love for you to take part!

Pass along your details/photos/videos/information to: editor@eastcobbnews.com, and please observe the following guidelines to ensure we get everything properly and can post it promptly.

Send the body of your announcement, calendar item or news release IN TEXT FORM ONLY in the text field of your e-mail template. Reformatting text from PDF, JPG and doc files takes us longer to prepare your message for publication.

We accept PDFs as an accompaniment to your item. Images are fine too, but we prefer those to be JPG files (more than jpeg and png). PLEASE DO NOT send photos inside a PDF or text or any other kind of file, but d0 send them as attachments to your email.

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Thanks for your cooperation and we look forward to hearing from you!

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Junior League of Cobb-Marietta awards $9.5K in grants

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Submitted information:Junior League of Marietta-Cobb awards $9.5K+ in grants

The Junior League of Cobb-Marietta (JLCM) has announced the results of its 2024–2025 League year, including $9,500 awarded in community grants, 360 hours of volunteer service, and a strategic shift in focus toward supporting families and children in Cobb County.

Building on over 90 years of community leadership, JLCM reintroduced a formal grantmaking process this year, distributing funds to five nonprofit partners: Cobb Collaborative, Waymark, Kidz2Leaders, LiveSafe Resources, and Heartbeats and Hands 540. Each organization received up to $2,000 to support critical local programs, with impact reporting scheduled for next year.

“The generous support of the Junior League of Cobb Marietta will have a direct and lasting impact on the lives of the children we serve”, stated Megan Cannady, Director of Development of LiveSafe Resources. “We are so grateful for their partnership and commitment to our community.”

JLCM members also gave their time and energy directly to the community, assembling hygiene kits, collecting over 100 pounds of food for local resource centers, and volunteering more than 360 hours. In addition, JLCM returned to the Georgia State Capitol for State Public Affairs Committee (SPAC) Day, advocating for community needs in direct conversation with legislators.

“The Junior League of Cobb-Marietta is a powerful force for good — a collective of women committed to identifying community needs and creating sustainable solutions that uplift lives,” stated JLCM President Ashley Farris. “Our impact is seen not just in the programs we support, but in the partnerships we build and the lives we touch. By bringing together women of purposeand passion, we create meaningful change that strengthens the very fabric of Cobb County.

Together, we lead with heart, serve with intention, and work toward a future where every member of our community can thrive.”

To support funding the League’s grant program, JLCM introduced two new fundraisers during the 2024-2025 League year: a bingo night held in October 2024, and the Serve Up Some Good pickleball tournament in March 2025, hosted at the Old Towne Athletic Club. Together, these events raised over $16,800 to help fund grants awarded to this year’s community partners.

The League welcomed 11 new members and 10 transfers in the 2024-2025 League year, while prioritizing member engagement through 48 community-building events. JLCM’s signature blend of service, advocacy, and leadership development continues to attract women seeking meaningful impact through collective action.

 

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Cobb Community Foundation non-profit deadline approaches

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Cobb Community Foundation non-profit deadline approaches
Shari Martin, Cobb Community Foundation

Submitted information:

Cobb Community Foundation (CCF) is reminding local nonprofits that the deadline to apply for the 2025 Match Magic: Cobb’s Holiday Giveathon is this Wednesday, July 30 at 5:00 p.m. The program offers an opportunity for Cobb-based charitable organizations to supercharge their year-end fundraising efforts and receive matching funds based on what they raise.

Match Magic is more than just a fundraising campaign—it’s a visibility boost, a donor acquisition strategy, and a platform to amplify impact. Participating nonprofits receive a customized online donation portal, a feature in a printed and digital gift guide distributed to thousands of Cobb residents courtesy of the Marietta Daily Journal, and access to a multi-channel marketing campaign managed by a strategic communications firm. Last year, one nonprofit raised over $95,000 and received an additional $10,800 in matching funds through the program.

Feedback from 2024 participants was overwhelmingly positive:

  • 76% reported receiving larger gifts from existing donors.
  • 64% gained new donors.
  • 68% reached new audiences.
  • 100% said the effort was worth it.

“This isn’t just about the match,” said Shari Martin, President and CEO of Cobb Community Foundation. “It’s about helping nonprofits expand their donor base, increase visibility, and end the year with meaningful momentum.”

To be eligible, nonprofits (or their fiscal sponsors) must serve Cobb County residents and be recognized as 501(c)(3) organizations. Applications, training videos, and additional resources are available on the CCF website at https://cobbfoundation.org/non-profits-atlanta-marietta-ga/apply-for-a-grant-atlanta-marietta-ga/.

“We don’t want any eligible nonprofit to miss this opportunity,” Martin added. “If you support a nonprofit serving Cobb County, please reach out to them to make sure they’ve either applied or are working on their applications!”

 

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