James Brewer-Calvert and the Local Grants Committee presented the six organizations receiving Rotary grants and highlighted a key volunteer from each organization. Grants in the amount of $12,500 were available for work that is making a significant local impact with at-risk youth and/or literacy. Six grants in the amount of $2000 were awarded, and $500 will be spent to provide books for volunteers to distribute. Each recipient group had a key volunteer to receive the grant and speak briefly about their organization.
Grant recipients are:
Boys and Girls Club Decatur, for after-school "Power Hour" homework help and leader. Emily Green recognized our own Tom Adams as a key volunteer and Board member. 87% of those who participate in Power Hour will graduate from high school.
Decatur Cooperative Ministry: One-year for leader for child enrichment at Hagar's House for homeless women and their children. Beth Vann recognized Board President Sherri Hutter for systematic and sacrificial giving of time and talent.
Decatur Education Foundation: Writing and reading workshops for almost every student of the City Schools of Decatur, in conjunction with The Little Shop of Stories. Gail Rothman introduced Mechele Hillegrass, a recent Hometown Hero and regular volunteer for the foundation.
Our House shelter for homeless children: Literacy supplies and educator for 57 children. Robert Dowd, Vice-Chair of the Board, spoke of the importance of school readiness for homeless children.
Girls on the Run exercise group, peer group counseling: Shoes and scholarships, in conjunction with Oakhurst Elementary and Renfroe Middle School after-school programs, to foster and develop healthy self-esteem. Sue Payne recognized Kelly Walsh, a regular volunteer since 2002, and mentioned that this program reaches over 1300 girls in the Atlanta area.
DeKalb Rape Crisis Center: One year of for leader for adolescent trauma and recovery group. 37 were served in 2010. Robin Kirby thanked Mandy Miller for her work as a crisis interventionist.
