Dahlonega Nonprofits and Charities

Shepherds Refuge has truly been a refuge for me and my wife the past few years. The beautiful and quiet property is a haven for rest and time with the Lord and each other. What's more, the hosts, Ruedi and Sandy and so gracious and hospitable. We love them.

Lumpkin Family Connection provides a variety of supports to our students, families, and communities. During the time of the Pandemic they have gone above and beyond to provide food to food insecure families and connect families to available resources. They partnered with local businesses and even had a local toy store, Giggle Monkeys, sponsor toy donations for students. Our community would be struggling without their support and wealth of resource information.

I was introduced to Georgia Forest watch by my partner and was surprised at the impact this small organization creates on the environment. <br>I have since become a Board member and they do a commendable job. It is governed by unpaid Volunteers who give their valuable time to save our forests in Georgia. <br>In these times when the environment is at risk Georgia Forest watch is a valuable resource for the residents of Georgia.

Warrior Overwatch has several working parts and projects, one of those is Warrior Farm's. I have personally watched them begin to grow and blossom as a new up and coming organization. They truly understand PTSD and the issues that Veteran's face, whether that be with the VA, or their short and long term mental health, physical, financial, etc. they understand and are equipped with a wealth of knowledge, and empathetic ear and a compassionate and kind spirit ready to help assist fellow veterans, placing a specific emphasis on the journey of transition to civilian life and /or ptsd recovery through agriculture, nature, and holistics. I have been fortunate enough to witness some of the good they have been able to do as an organization through both Warrior Overwatch and Warrior Farm's. In just a short time and with limited resources as a new organization without government funding, I have seen multiple lives, families positively impacted in many ways, even lives saved from attempted suicide. So much good has already been accomplished. I know there's much more good to come and many more lives that will be positively impacted by this organization. If you are a veteran interested in agriculture, or you're a veteran in the local area and maybe just need a peer buddy, call them up and ask for more information about what they currently have going on at Warrior Farm's, or support them by making a donation or a purchase of one of their awesome natural organic soaps, scrubs, honey, "so much great stuff" you won't be sorry you did!

I am proud to serve as the Secretary on the Board of Directors for ConnectAbility, Inc. This organization is dedicated to the inclusion of individuals with disabilities, helping them feel valued and empowered. I come from a background in Special Education through a local school system, and I direct many parents and students to ConnectAbility. My role in education is identifying preschool students with delays in development, and many times parents are devastated to learn that their child might be different. But different isn't less. Different isn't worse. Different is just that - different. We are all different and ConnectAbility seeks to to help all people find their commonality among many differences. Attend just one event (from workshops, fundraisers, community events, or respite events) and you'll feel a sense of purpose in your own life and the lives of others that you just can't get elsewhere.

They are very focused on literacy IS economic development. They have done great things and with little funding from any governmental agency. If LCLC is successful, there would be less need for other outreach programs.

TLC Humane Society tries to do the best job possible in caring for the animals in its care and finding forever homes for them. I am the caregiver there and its been the most rewarding experience of my life. Last month we had two wonderful adoptions for dogs that had lived at the shelter for over 7 years, Austin and Cinderella, two shy females found the best homes ever. No words can describe how good that feels!

I had a great experience working with Brenda from NOA this fall. I came to Brenda as I had to complete a service learning project for my class assignment. Brenda had told me that NOA was in the need of a medical outreach advocate to educate the local medical community about NOA's programs and services, and distribute domestic violence screening tools to doctors, dentists, and other medical facilities. My experience at NOA was greater than what I had expected. If my work can help to save just one woman from domestic violence I will be over-joyed. I plan to continue helping NOA with whatever I can and however I can.

Enotah CASA has enabled me to help children who have been neglected and abused by their families. These children have nonone in their lives to make certain they receive the nurturing and care that will enable them to grow and thrive. The program provides logistical support which helps me learn about the child and the facts of the case. The CASA staff coordinates court dates and provides me with written communication from the court. When necessary, they make copies of my reports so they can be provided to the people (judge, DFCS, parents, attorneys, etc.) who are involved in the case. After thirty-two years in education, this program has given me a way to stay involved with the growth and development of children and allowed me to feel that I am still making a contribution to the future of this country. I feel that I am making a difference in the lives of children who have noone to be an advocate for them.