Up Close with the Abbott Animal Hospital, see story on page 5.
Lawrenceville | Snellville | Lilburn | Stone Mountain | Tucker
Green, CFP®, AIF®
Roger S. Green, MSFS, CFP® Michael Green, CWS®
On the Cover: Abbott Animal Hospital: Aims to Help Pets Live Better and Longer
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
Thanks to advancements in preventative healthcare—such as vaccinations, parasiticides, and sterilization—both pets and humans are experiencing longer lifespans. On average, dogs live between 10 and 15 years, while cats typically reach 9 to 17 years, with an average lifespan of 14 years.
Humans, in comparison, have an average life expectancy of 74.8 years. However, some individuals and pets surpass these averages, including centenarians like Jimmy Carter and exceptional animals like Bluey and the Portuguese dog Bobi who lived to an impressive 29 years. While genetics contribute to longevity, factors such as regular check-ups, vaccinations, parasiticides, accident prevention, and sterilization play critical roles in extending and enhancing life.
As dogs and cats have become cherished family members, their shorter lifespans compared to humans often lead to a profound sense of loss. For example, Abbott Animal Hospital’s Dr. Oh, had an Australian cattle dog named Belle. Belle demonstrated remarkable vitality despite being adopted at 13, well into her geriatric years. Losing her after two short years underscored for Dr. Oh the painful reality of the brief lives shared by beloved pets.
The Dog Aging Project represents an innovative initiative that studies dogs as a model for understanding human aging, given their shared environments, lifestyles, and age-related diseases. Discoveries about healthy aging in dogs have the potential to translate into medical advancements for humans, while insights from human aging research can be applied to improve the health and longevity of pets.
Dr. Peter Attia’s book, Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity, highlights strategies for extending healthy lifespans in humans. Among these, maintaining a healthy weight and staying lean are emphasized as key to preventing metabolic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. These practices also reduce the risk of certain cancers and lower the likelihood of cognitive decline. Attia advocates for exercise as a powerful “drug” for longevity, with a high VO2 max—a measure of cardiovascular fitness—being
one of the strongest predictors of a longer life. Achieving and maintaining a high VO2 max requires lifelong fitness and healthy muscle tone, which also plays a role in preventing neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. Similarly, research indicates that dogs with leaner body conditions have
Continued on page 9
Our Town
Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Community & Family Magazine — An EndResultz Media Company EndResultz.com
Our Town Gwinnett is published and direct mailed to select homes in the Gwinnett/NE DeKalb area. Opinions expressed by the writers and staff are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Our Town Gwinnett reserves the right to edit and/or reject any editorial or advertising content. Our Town Gwinnett is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the cost of the space or for the validity of claims made by advertisers.
Entire contents copyright 2024 by Our Town Gwinnett Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without written permission from the publisher.
Publisher/Owner
Dr. Ryan T. Sauers Ryan@EndResultz.com
Creative Director Elsie Olson Elsie@EndResultz.com
Editor
Catherine L. Osornio Editor@EndResultz.com
Cover
IN THIS ISSUE
5 On the Cover: Abbott Animal Hospital: Aims to Help Pets Live Better and Longer
7 From the Publisher: Ryan’s Remarks
7 Optimal…A Word for Your Day
8 Home Matters: Five Simple Ways to Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal
8 Rainbow Village Joins Other Organizations to Launch “Sista CEO” 9 Creativity Corner: Tips to Boost Your Creativity
10 One Man’s Opinion: A Vote FOR the Electoral College
11 Gwinnett County News: Building a Human Services Facility
12 Kid’s Corner: Six Smart Ways to Save Money for Your Kids
12 Getting to Know: Friendship Forest Academy
13 Gwinnett County Launches Microtransit Pilot in Norcross
14 Making a Difference: One on One with Jambos Donates Jane Bishop Bill Crane
From the Publisher: Ryan’s Remarks
By Dr. Ryan T. Sauers
@RyanTSauers @RyanTSauers
As the year winds down and the holiday season fills the air, it’s the perfect time to reflect on what truly matters—the incredible connections we share. The people, businesses, and organizations around us are the heartbeat of this publication, and we are deeply grateful for every reader, partner, and story that makes it all possible.
A strong network of relationships is the foundation of everything we do. It’s in the way neighbors come together to support one another, how local leaders and organizations step up to make a difference, and how local businesses contribute to the character and vibrancy of our area. These organizations —big and small—play an essential role in shaping the unique identity of our towns and in supporting the livelihoods of so many.
At Our Town Gwinnett, we believe in focusing on the positive. We aim to highlight the good happening around us—the stories of families, businesses, people, and organizations creating connections, solving problems, and inspiring change. We take pride in being a voice for family-friendly, uplifting local news that reflects the heart and soul of Gwinnett and its surrounding areas. This holiday season, we celebrate such stories found almost nowhere else—stories that showcase the beauty of gratitude and the incredible power of people working together.
Our Town Gwinnett isn’t just a magazine; it’s a celebration of everything that makes our area unique. Thank you for being part of this journey with us. Your support inspires us to keep sharing stories that uplift, connect, and celebrate the vibrant spirit of where we live.
As we approach 2025, let’s carry this gratitude forward, building a place where kindness thrives, businesses flourish, and connections deepen. Together, we can continue creating an environment we proudly call home.
Thank you for being an integral part of our story. I wish you a blessed holiday season filled with gratitude, warmth, and meaningful moments of connection. And, as always, thank you for continuing with me on the journey of my town, your town, OUR TOWN!
Optimal…A Word for Your Day
By Jane Bishop
Most desirable or satisfactory is how the online Meriam Webster dictionary defines optimal. Optimal is related to me being in the best state to be the most effective, and my energy level directly impacts my optimal space. Knowing that fact, I strive to intentionally “feed” my energy in all aspects. When I am in my optimal energy space, I am more effective, more influential, and show up as my best self, and I accomplish more in less time.
Ask yourself these questions: “When am I at my best or most desirable? How does my energy level impact my optimal space?” Often, we can be at a low energy point and then participate in certain activities that return us to our optimal energy space (i.e., working out, going for a jog, etc.). The key is understanding who we are, how we operate, and how we show up. Through this, we discover how to feed and nurture our optimal, most favorable/desirable energy. On the other side, being aware of our optimal energy space also helps us understand what drains our energy. We are not perfect, we are human, and we are going to experience moments of burnout or energy exhaustion. Our human energy batteries do not last forever! Living life without structure, boundaries, defined priorities, etc. depletes our energy vs. powering our energy. We can have it all, but simply not at the same time!
As you reflect on your optimal space, focus on understanding your energy by practicing an optimal energy audit. To kickstart your audit, begin with these questions: “What is draining my energy unnecessarily? What is powering
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Home Matters: Five Simple Ways to Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
With the cold weather here, now is the perfect time to spruce up your home –both indoors and out. It’s a well-known fact that homes with strong curb appeal not only tend to sell faster, but also have higher perceived home values – as much as 7%-14% more. While there are many large-scale renovations that can add curb appeal to your home, there are just as many simple refreshes you can make without spending a lot of time or money.
Here are five easy ways to boost your home’s curb appeal, and its value, in as little as a few hours:
1. Clean or repaint your front door:
Since your front door is exposed to the elements, simply washing away some of the built-up dirt and grime can breathe new life into this focal point of your home. For an affordable, more eye-catching upgrade, consider painting your front door a bold, vibrant hue that coordinates with the rest of your home’s color palette to help draw buyers in. You can also add visual interest with a simple seasonal wreath.
2. Ensure your doors, windows, and siding are sealed: With warmer months coming in the Spring there often comes rainy and wet weather, so ensure your doors, windows, siding, and other exterior surfaces won’t fall prey to water leakage during the next storm. Perfect for exterior touch-ups of any size, DAP’s AMP All Weather Window, Siding, and Door Sealant delivers a 100% weatherproof and waterproof seal for windows, doors, siding, trim, gutter, flashing, and concrete. It outperforms silicone in key performance attributes such as wet surface application, paintability, and crystal-clear clarity, while also offering exceptional weatherability, durability, and mold and mildew resistance, providing maximum performance for every project. It also has a 30-minute paint and rain/water ready time, making
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Rainbow Village Joins Other Organizations to Launch “Sista CEO”
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
According to a recent study* of more than 59,000 public charities across the U.S., 62% of nonprofit leaders are women. With this in mind, Rainbow Village CEO Melanie Conner built a network of local nonprofit leaders aptly named “Sista CEO,” which was established in 1991. This Metro Atlanta charity’s mission is Bringing Help, Hope, Housing, and Healing to Families Experiencing Homelessness. She believed her organization and others could benefit from a forum where members can “collaborate, celebrate, and commiserate” over best practices, while sharing ideas and fostering partnerships to ensure success for all.
“It all began organically,” said Conner. “Often, one or two of us would get together, have lunch, and share what’s going on in our respective organizations. We began to see threads between our organizations and the challenges we were experiencing. We believed we could share ideas and find ways to overcome obstacles together. After all, we’re all in the business of trying to help people. Why not support one another in that effort? The idiom ‘It’s lonely at the top’ is particularly true for nonprofit leaders. We may have incredible relationships with our staff, board members, donors, and volunteers – which is very important. But it’s another thing to gather with others who share a deep understanding of your pain points. Sista CEOs can finish each other’s sentences. It’s a wonderful thing to know you’re not alone. As a result, our group has grown from five original members to 20.”
One of the many success stories that have emerged from Sista CEO is that of Executive Director Kristina McCalla. She recently launched her nonprofit, Rooted Interiors, a grassroots charity aimed at transforming empty houses into fully furnished homes for those emerging from homelessness. When McCalla first met Conner, her organization had not yet received its 501(c)3 designation. The support and guidance she received from Sista CEO were instrumental in her journey, highlighting the tangible benefits of this unique network.
Following that meeting, Rooted Interiors designed three apartments for families before they moved onto Rainbow Village’s campus. The nonprofit has partnered with other organizations within the Sista CEO network.
“Being a part of Sista CEO has been incredibly rewarding for myself and my organization,” said McCalla. “The unparalleled support, the invaluable resources and mentorship, and the opportunities for collaboration have significantly accelerated my personal and professional growth. It’s an honor to be amongst a group of amazing women whose desire is to make a meaningful change in the world. There is power in numbers, and Sista CEO is making incredible changes.”
Several of the other Sista CEO members had this to say about the collaborative organization:
Continued on page 14
Creativity Corner: Tips to Boost Your
Creativity
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
Even the most creative people can feel stuck and out of ideas sometimes. So what do you do? If you’re looking to boost your creativity and tap into your inner artist, here are some tips to consider.
Embrace failure: Many people are afraid to take risks or try new things because they are afraid of failing. However, failure is often an essential part of the creative process. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things, even if they don’t work out. Every failure is an opportunity to learn and grow.
Take breaks: Sometimes, the best way to get your creative juices flowing is to take a break and step away from your work. Go for a walk, take a yoga class, or simply sit in a quiet space and let your mind wander. Giving yourself time to recharge can help to spark new ideas and perspectives.
Try new things: Creativity often thrives on novelty and new experiences. Try taking a class in something you’ve never done, or travel to a new place and immerse yourself in a different culture. Exposing yourself to new ideas
Abbott Animal Hospital
Continued from page 5
lifespans that are approximately two years longer than those of overweight dogs. Cats face comparable health risks, including arthritis and diabetes, when their weight is not managed. Engaging cats in activities that mimic their natural hunting behaviors, such as using food puzzles or feeding them in small portions, can promote healthier habits and improve their overall well-being.
Pets provide emotional support and depend on their caretakers for health and happiness. In turn, pets often motivate their owners to adopt healthier routines. For example, Belle inspired habits such as daily walks and healthier eating. Dr. Oh introduced baby carrots into Belle’s meals and also consumed them herself as snacks, creating a shared health routine. Despite vision and hearing loss in her later years, Belle, maintained a puppy-like energy, delighting in working for her food and enjoying activities that enriched her quality of life until her final weeks.
The Wellness Center was founded with the mission of promoting longevity and helping pets live healthier lives, inspired by Belle’s story. Pets that reach 18 years of age represent the culmination of years of dedication and good care.
The Center aims to guide and educate pet owners in fostering these habits, ensuring that pets and their families can enjoy long, fulfilling lives—just as Bluey and other extraordinary pets have demonstrated.
More information at http://www.abbottanimal.com, or call 770-921-2121.
and experiences can help to open up new pathways in your brain and inspire new creative ideas.
Collaborate with others: Sometimes, the best way to spark creativity is to work with others. Join a creative writing group, collaborate on a musical project with a friend, or take a workshop in a new art form. Collaborating with others can help to stimulate new ideas and perspectives and provide valuable feedback and support.
Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness practices such as meditation and yoga can help to quiet your mind and open up space for creativity. Set aside time each day for meditation or mindful breathing, or try a yoga class to help reduce stress and boost creativity.
Keep a journal: Journaling can be a powerful tool for unlocking creativity. Try keeping a daily journal where you jot down your thoughts, ideas, and inspirations. This can help you to stay connected to your inner creativity and provide a record of your journey as a creative person.
By following these tips, you can help to unlock your inner creativity and tap into your artistic potential. Remember that creativity is a process, and it takes time, patience, and practice to cultivate. But with dedication and effort, anyone can become more creative and expressive in their work and life.
One Man’s Opinion: A Vote FOR the Electoral College
By Bill Crane
Our Founding Fathers were indeed not perfect. But the “American experiment” of a constitutional republic still looks pretty good in my book. Like many of our government’s foundations, the Electoral College was a compromise.
The framers of our Constitution debated for many months. Many founders wanted the President to be elected/selected by the U.S. Congress, a much smaller body of elites at that time. Others advocated for a popular vote to pick the “non-King” to lead our colonies and nascent nation forward.
Roger Sherman and Oliver Ellsworth were the primary authors of this great compromise. With the War for Independence in the rearview and Britain’s return and attempt to reconquer in 1812 yet ahead, the founders wanted out from the over-bearing yoke of a monarch and also the overstepping rule of Britain’s appointed colonial governors. Yet, no other nation on the planet elected its ruler by a popular majority vote.
The compromise, with an acknowledged nod to America’s original sin, designed a system where states would fashion their own laws for selecting Electors: each state would have two Electors to mirror their representation within the U.S. Senate (two members for each state), and additional electors for each Congressional District within the U.S. House of Representatives.
Much later, most states would award the popular vote in “winner take all” fashion to the Electoral Slate of the party winning a plurality of each state’s votes. Maine and Nebraska are the exceptions, awarding their Electoral Votes by Congressional District matching the results of each.
Though founded upon democratic principles, our nation is a constitutional
republic. We select and elect officials in the three branches of government to determine policy, set budgets, and enact the people’s business.
From those original thirteen colonies and a population of nearly four million, we are now fifty states with a population of 330 million. And we ALL now actually vote for a slate of electors rather than candidates for President. The Electoral College gives voice and votes to all states: the large and the small.
California, with nearly 20 percent of the U.S. population, has 54 electors out of a total of 538. just under 10 percent of all electors. There are 100 electors to represent the U.S. Senate, 435 in the U.S. House, and 3 for the District of Columbia. Washington, D.C., with 3 Electoral Votes, was created to host our nation’s Capital from land donated by three states and a good bit of salvaged swamp land and intracoastal waterway along the Potomac River. Each time there is a disconnect between the results of the popular vote and the Electoral College, a hue and cry arises to amend the Constitution and move to the popular vote deciding the occupant of the White House. This argument most typically comes from the non-prevailing side when the Electoral College chooses the other candidate. However, non-alignment is far from rare. The last Republican to win both was President George W. Bush during his second term in 2004.
Many states in New England (including several original colonies), across the Rocky Mountains, and Alaska have only those 3 Electoral College votes based on their modest populations. Shifting to a popular vote system would remove any need for candidates to appeal to a broad cross-section of Americans or to campaign between significant population centers. The East Coast and major cities and metro areas like Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Philadelphia, or Las Vegas would see candidates and become centers of campaign activity, but “flyover country” would likely become almost exclusively that.
The Trump campaign created a map, painting the nation by the voting results in all counties: Red for Trump won, and Blue by Harris. Without including Hawaii and Alaska, the map shows an ink blot smattering of blue surrounding almost every major Metropolitan Statistical Area in the nation, predominantly along the eastern seaboard. The heartland, sun belt, and deep south are a nearly uninterrupted Red Sea.
When your position on an issue looks starkly different, dependent on who is large and in charge, you must face the reality that politics and perhaps your party preference are clouding your own thinking and preferences, and possibly not necessarily “the good of the nation.” The Electoral College still has my vote.
Bill Crane owns the full-service communications firm CSI Crane. More information at www.CSICrane.com
Gwinnett County News: Building a Human Services Facility
Our Town Gwinnett Staff
The Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners recently voted to move forward with the construction of a 78,800 square-foot, three-story human services building. This first-of-its-kind facility in Gwinnett County, and the only one in the Tri-County area including Gwinnett, Newton, and Rockdale, will be located on the same site as the new Gwinnett County Records Management and Storage Facility on Grayson Highway in Lawrenceville. Construction is set to begin in January 2025.
The OneStop Gwinnett will serve as the central hub for the County’s human services and will offer vital community resources, including veteran and family services, workforce development programs, and various community and partner spaces for classes and training. It will also be the command center for the County’s Community Navigator Team.
In a partnership with View Point Health, OneStop Gwinnett will address the county’s growing need for mental and behavioral health services. The facility will feature a thirty-bed inpatient stabilization unit and a 23-hour temporary observation day center capable of accommodating up to fifteen individuals.
Gwinnett County Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson said after years of intentional planning and strategic alignment with the board’s priorities, she expects the facility to have a significant impact.
“Our community’s well-being is our top priority,” said Hendrickson. “Because of this historic investment, our new Health and Human Services center will house a state-of-the-art Crisis Stabilization Unit and represents a significant step forward in our commitment to providing comprehensive and accessible mental and behavioral health services to all our residents. As the first facility of its kind in Gwinnett, the center will serve as a vital resource for
Optimal…A Word for Your Day
Continued from page 7
my energy? What is blocking my energy? What is my challenge for creating boundaries? What is at stake when I am not in my optimal energy space? What can I cull, minimize, or eliminate?” While there are circumstances we cannot control, we can control our response and minimize the energy drain. When you are in your optimal energy space, it is your power zone. It is a place of great accomplishment and influence on those around you. Give yourself permission to consistently practice removing what drains your energy and embrace what powers your energy. You will consistently function at your most desirable and satisfactory level! And remember, “strive for consistent excellence not perfection.” (Janeism)
More information at www.janebishoplive.com
individuals in crisis, providing immediate, compassionate care in a safe and supportive environment.”
Retired Army Lt. Colonel and District 3 Commissioner Jasper Watkins III serves on the View Point Health Board and says the implications for this central hub are endless.
“By bringing these services together in one location, we are enhancing access and creating a stronger, more connected community,” Watkins said. “This facility is a testament to our dedication to meeting the needs of Gwinnett’s residents, particularly in mental health and human services. Additionally, the focus on serving veterans at this location emphasizes our commitment to those who have served our country.”
“View Point Health is grateful for the opportunity to locate services in the Gwinnett County OneStop in Lawrenceville,” View Point Health CEO Jennifer Hibbard said. “This will be the first-ever behavioral health crisis center with 24/7 access to care in Gwinnett County as well as an outpatient clinic and administrative offices.”
The Board of Commissioners awarded a contract for $35 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds to Reeves Young, LLC for the construction of the facility.
Kid’s Corner: Six Smart Ways to Save Money for Your Kids
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
While there are many ways to set your kids up for a successful future, money in the bank is one of the most powerful financial tools you can pass along. Every dollar you save or invest can help your child create a productive and stable foundation for many years to come.
When it comes to saving for your kids, the sooner the better. Building up funds now can ensure kids will have less to worry about as they get older and can open up more financial opportunities. To help you get started, consider these several ways to save wisely for your kids.
1. Open a college savings account:
If higher education is in your child’s future, consider a 529 savings plan. This is a tax-advantaged investment plan that can be opened as soon as your child is born. The money grows tax free and can be withdrawn without taxes. There are two types of 529 plans: prepaid tuition and education savings. Prepaid tuition plans can purchase credits at a participating university and lock in current tuition costs. An education savings plan is an investment account where funds are designated for qualified college expenses. Be sure to consult a tax advisor to assist with your specific circumstances as this is only intended to provide general information.
2. Invest in a home:
Purchasing a home can be one of the most secure and highest-return investments you can make for your children, especially in today’s housing market. A home can be passed down through generations or sold when the value has increased.
If you’re looking to invest in a home for your children, consider manufactured housing. Manufactured homes attached to a permanent foundation appreciate at an average rate of 3.4%, while traditional homes appreciate at an average rate of 3.8%. So, while manufactured homes may not appreciate at the exact same rate, they’re close!
3. Use Roth IRA contributions:
If you have a Roth IRA account, you can use some of the funds to pay for qualifying education expenses. If your account is at least five years old, you can withdraw up to your original contribution amount. Be sure to consult a tax advisor to assist with your specific circumstances.
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Getting to Know: Friendship Forest Academy
By Victoria R. Crosby
Jennifer Hickey, an attorney and legal scholar, is a co-founder of the Friendship Forest Academy (FFA) in Lawrenceville. When her son, who is neurodivergent, had completed preschool, Jennifer and her husband sought a school for him, but they couldn’t find one near them that would meet his needs.
Amanda Green, a longtime friend, who also has a neurodivergent child the same age, was also looking for a similar school, and when they couldn’t find one close enough, they decided to start their own. The two women co-founded the school in 2023 after they found an available space at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Lawrenceville.
The Friendship Forest Academy is a place where neurodivergent children, ages five to fourteen, can learn and grow while having their sensory needs supported and encouraged; a place where children can be themselves and engage on their own terms, customized to individual unique learning style. The school’s mission is to create a safe environment where children can learn, explore, discover, and create.
The school offers very small classes with a two to one student-teacher ratio with customized learning plans, speech and occupational therapy, an indoor sensory room, and an outdoor classroom with sensory play equipment. They use an approach that aims to create an emotionally safe environment where neurodivergent children can benefit from a combination of child-led approaches and a structured schedule that favors a predictable routine for those sensitive to abrupt changes.
The Common Core Georgia Performance standards and other well established educational approaches are used as the basis for individual educational plans, so that all of a child’s unique abilities and challenges are addressed. The arts curriculum includes music, dance, drama, creative writing, and visual arts, which are organically integrated with all the disciplines.
FFA is a non-profit organization with lower tuition than other similar private schools, so that it is affordable. The school was recently awarded a grant for a gardening program. The children spend some time growing vegetables in container beds. Garden club members, and anyone with an interest in gardening,
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Gwinnett County Launches Microtransit Pilot in Norcross
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
Gwinnett County officials, in collaboration with the Gateway85 Community Improvement District and the city of Norcross, gathered last month to celebrate the launch of Ride Gwinnett’s new microtransit pilot program. Microtransit is an on-demand, shared-ride service aimed at improving mobility for residents and businesses.
Ride Gwinnett currently operates microtransit services in Snellville and Lawrenceville. This new pilot provides microtransit service for areas of Norcross and the Gateway85 Community Improvement District.
“Microtransit is a flexible and convenient transportation option that represents a significant step forward in Gwinnett County’s efforts to achieve mobility for all,” said Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson. “Our collaboration with the Gateway85 Community Improvement District and the city of Norcross to add the service in this area is a prime example of the power of partnership in delivering exceptional services that enhance connectivity and accessibility for our residents, businesses and visitors.”
By using the Ride Gwinnett app, customers can select their pick-up and drop-off locations, choose pick-up times and specify the number of riders.
“It is incredible that we have been able to partner with the city of Norcross and Gwinnett County to launch the new on-demand microtransit pilot program, which will be a game-changer for our district,” said Emory Morsberger, executive director of Gateway85 Community Improvement District. “This service will provide a reliable and affordable transportation option for our community, helping employees get to their jobs and ensuring that transit-dependent residents can easily move around the area, all for just $3. We are committed to improving accessibility and enhancing the quality of life for everyone in our district.”
The pilot program will operate with the fixed price of $3 per ride. Service will be available Monday through Saturday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., excluding
Friendship Forest Academy
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would be welcome as a volunteer, as are people with other special interests or skills that they could demonstrate or teach.
FFA also offers a summer camp for any neurodivergent student, not only those enrolled in the school. It includes five weekly sessions offering sensory activities, consulting occupational therapist, arts crafts, and gardening. Friendship Forest Academy is located at 12 Bethesda Church Road in Lawrenceville.
More information at 770 322-4361 or https://www.friendshipforestacademy. org/
holidays. Payments can be made through the app or with exact change.
“We are honored to bring this transformative program to our community,” said city of Norcross Mayor Craig Newton. “My fellow council members and I believe it will greatly enhance the quality of life by providing more accessible and reliable transportation options for all of our residents. We are grateful for the collaborative effort between the Gwinnett County Commission, the Gwinnett85 CID, and the Norcross City Council in bringing this much needed transit initiative to our citizens. Seeing this service come to life is a proud moment for us all, and we can’t wait to witness the positive difference it will make in our city.”
The program is funded 44% each by Gwinnett County and Gateway85 CID, with the city of Norcross covering the remainder. The pilot is scheduled to operate for one year.
More information at www.RideGwinnett.com
Making a Difference: One on One with Jambos Donates
By Tana Poncsak
Perhaps everyone can relate to slipping into a cozy new pair of pajamas. And for kids in the foster care system, receiving cozy new pajamas may bring them some much-needed comfort. Now, there’s an organization called Jambos Donates that provides new pajamas and comfort to those in the foster care system.
Rebekah Black knew at an early age she wanted to serve kids in some way. Still, after taking part in a mission trip to Montego Bay and Kingston, Jamaica, where Rebekah and her group served in rescue centers and orphanages, this desire become more evident. Rebekah decided to make serving children in the foster care system her life’s work.
“I was just a young girl,” Rebekah says, speaking about the mission trip. “I knew I really wanted to serve kids in the adoption and foster care space. It became very clear to me that I was called to do this.”
Taking a hard left turn from the sales and marketing roles she held early in her professional career, Rebekah, who is a single mother, took a risk answering the call and starting the organization located in Buford that sees that children in foster care experience the comfort of receiving and wearing new pajamas.
As founder and chief executive officer of Jambos Donates that officially became a nonprofit in February 2018, Rebekah said she’s had a few challenges along the way as she worked multiple jobs to get the organization up and running.
It all started with one simple question to those who work in the government agencies that handle foster care cases and those who have been through a foster care program. What do the kids in foster care need the most? Rebekah says time and time again the answer was that kids need pajamas.
“I thought, well that’s so simple,” she says. “How hard could it be? Let’s try it.”
And she did. Starting with the small groups at her church around Christmastime, she collected over 200 pairs of pajamas and got the first inkling that the idea had merit. Since that time, Jambos Donates has partnered with churches, schools, and the like. Over six years, they’ve collected 106,000 pairs of pajamas, and last year in 2023, they sent out 24,000 pieces.
Rainbow Village Continued from page 8
“I was honored that Melanie asked me to be one of the first to join Sista CEO. I’m one of the younger members, so I get to benefit from the mentorship of women who’ve been in the field a lot longer. These women not only know how to run a successful organization, but are also willing to share their knowledge. We’re all involved in an industry that involves a lot of emotions. I’ve learned from one of my mentors that it’s okay to put up barriers and protect my own mental health by taking off weekends to avoid burnout. For my part, I’m able to leverage training from my own national organization and share it with the Sista CEO community. We build trust among the group and get together in a non-competitive way. It’s all about community.” ~ Carol Love, Executive Director | Family Promise of Gwinnett
“This group of impactful women brings together the collective expertise, passion, and resources of various nonprofit organizations, amplifying our efforts and creating a larger, more meaningful impact than any single organization could achieve alone. I have made so many strong, supportive relationships among like-minded women leaders in this group. We brainstorm new ideas and develop creative solutions to complex issues that we all face.” ~ Tami Wilder, CEO | Positive Impact International/Gwinnett County Safe Place
“The Sista CEO group allows me to collaborate with other non-profit C-Suite women on so many levels. We share our struggles and our wins. We figure out ways to work together to meet the needs of our community because together, we are stronger. There’s no competition. We are all in this together with the same goals, and this is what sisterhood is all about.” ~ Robin Mauck, Executive Director | Obria Medical Clinics Gwinnett
As Sista CEO continues to grow in unexpected ways, Conner and her fellow members hope to remain intentional about coming together and making things happen while maintaining the original sense of intimacy. Other nonprofit leaders in Metro Atlanta who’d like to learn about becoming a member of Sista CEO can contact Melanie Conner directly at mconner@rainbowvillage.org or (770) 497-1888.
*Uchida, Kyoko. Candid.org “What to know about U.S. nonprofit sector demographics” https://blog.candid.org/post/diversity-in-nonprofit-sector-candid-demographic-data-report/
“Personally, it really stretched me,” she says, adding that she had to believe and put her trust in God. It’s with that faith that she started the organization on a shoestring budget in her living room. But since those days, Rebekah says the organization has made a difference in the community. Then during the pandemic Rebekah says the foster care program was at a standstill and many children were stuck in the system because they couldn’t go to court to have their cases heard.
“It was really hard,” she says.
But Jambos Donates still provided boxes of pajamas to the social workers on the frontline to give to the children as they interacted with them. And they got creative and created the Jambos to Homes program, and pajamas were delivered directly to the front porches of the homes that housed children in the foster care program.
In 2022 the organization was mentioned on social media by an influencer who has foster children of her own and a large foster care community following. The post ended up going viral, and they had about 4,000 families ask for pajamas within a three-week span.
“It was all over the country and thousands of kids got pajamas from us,” Rebekah says. “It happened very quickly.”
That was a couple of years ago, and she says they’re still catching their breath. Jambos Donates serves foster children in all fifty states and more than seventeen different countries. Rebekah said one of the rewards of doing her work is when she sees some of the children get pajamas.
“We were able to go to Kenya and Uganda and see the kids in their pajamas,” she says. “When I arrived at the infant rescue center, that was a big reward for me. It was a celebration moment. It was like, ‘Wow, we’re making a difference on the other side of the world.’”
More information at https://jambosdonates.org/
Home Matters
Continued from page 8
even the smallest touch-ups a breeze while giving you added peace of mind. Additionally, the sealant line includes a kitchen and bath-specific formulation perfect for all your interior touch-up needs as well.
3. Update outdoor hardware and lighting:
House numbers, the entry door handle, and porch light fixtures are all elements that add style and interest to your home’s curb appeal, whether you realize it or not. Replace old house numbers with a customized or DIY number display, or simply choose larger, more modern numbers for a few dollars each. Also consider updating your porch light fixtures for added appeal and safety. Be sure to consider your home’s style and the fixture’s configuration to ensure it illuminates your walkway or porch adequately, and for added time and money savings, choose fixtures that use the same mounting system as your current ones. Complete your entryway upgrade by choosing a new entry door handle or lockset that complements your house numbers and light fixtures for the most cohesive look. For all three, bronze finishes often look best with traditional homes, while brushed nickel suits more modern ones.
4. Repair any unsightly cracked concrete:
Driveway, sidewalk, patio, and other outdoor concrete cracks are both common and inevitable given they are in high-traffic areas and are susceptible to the annual freeze/thaw cycle. Without proper attention and repairs, these cracks are not only unsightly, but can lead to more serious issues or worse, pose safety concerns. Thankfully, fixing them doesn’t have to be a costly headache with the help of Textured Concrete. This premium latex sealant simulates concrete with the durability needed to properly move and flex with heavy-trafficked concrete surfaces while providing a long-lasting, crack-resistant seal. Perfect for use on concrete, mortar, brick, metal, stone, stucco, grout, and textured walls, it’s easy to use and apply, won’t stain or bleed, and can be cleaned up with just water if needed. While most latex sealants require a 24-hour dry time before painting, this one is ready to paint in just two hours so you can perfectly match any substrate and move onto your next project in record time.
5. Add color with flowers or plants:
From adding planters on your porch, to installing window boxes for an added pop of color, this is an easy and affordable afternoon project that instantly makes your home look more welcoming, approachable, and modern while adding to its perceived value. Be sure to choose varieties that will get enough sunlight based on where they’re planted, and mix and match colors based on your home’s color scheme for the best results. (BPT)
4. Allow Kids to use Debit Cards:
Consider teaching your kids money management skills early on by allowing them to use a debit card co-owned by you. If you have teenagers who earn an income, this is a great tool for learning how to deposit checks, set aside money for savings, and more.
5. Open a high-yield Savings Account:
A high-yield savings account can be a great place to stash birthday and holiday gift money over the years and watch it continue to grow. This type of account can typically be co-owned and managed by parents until your child is responsible enough to manage it on their own.
6. Set aside money in a trust fund:
Putting money for your kids in a trust doesn’t have the same tax benefits as a 529 plan, but it does pose some important benefits. Trust accounts allow you as parents to create exact rules around how you want the funds dispersed to your children. For example, you can give the money in a series of installments or request that it be used only toward tuition.
INSPECTIONS ARE ALWAYS FREE PREVENT EXPENSIVE REPAIRS
Early detection of roof damage can save you from expensive repairs or full roof replacements.
Addressing issues early helps extend the life of your roof.
MAXIMIZE INSURANCE COVERAGE
A thorough inspection ensures all damage is documented, making it easier to file successful insurance claims.
Proper documentation increases the likelihood of getting full coverage for repairs.
OPEN HOUSE
