When Cesar Martinez moved from Colombia to the United States in 2022, he was focused on building a better future for his family. Cesar is a former teacher who worked closely with local government leaders in his hometown. He left behind a career, a community, and familiarity in search of safety and opportunity for his wife and two sons.

The transition was far from easy. As an immigrant navigating a new country, Cesar faced language barriers, long work hours, and the constant pressure of providing for his family. He took whatever work he could find, from warehouse jobs and truck driving to cleaning Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Ģ����Ƶ. As the leader of his household, he carried the weight of making sure his family could succeed in their new life.

Cesar’s wife gently reminded him that while he was working hard to provide for their family, his presence was just as important. But he struggled to find purposeful time with his 9- and 11-year-old children.

Determined to be more involved in his children’s lives, Cesar looked for ways to spend meaningful time with them despite his demanding work schedule. He decided to coach his youngest son’s soccer team, a choice that would unexpectedly open new doors. 

Finding the Tools to Be the Father He Wanted to Be

Through connections he made on the field, Cesar was introduced to , where he eventually became the organization’s 2024 High School Director. There, he developed and expanded after-school programs that provided academic support, college and career preparation, and family engagement services for high school students in Gwinnett and DeKalb counties. 

It was through another trusted community connection that Cesar first learned about the Raising Highly Capable Kids (RHCK) program. While attending an open house at Central Gwinnett High School, Cesar was encouraged by the school principal to speak with a pastor who was sharing information about RHCK. Although the opportunity intrigued him, Cesar hesitated. He worried that his English might not be strong enough to fully understand the curriculum, and he wasn’t sure how he could fit 10 sessions into an already packed schedule.

Still, he decided to give it a chance, because he deeply desired to improve the dynamic of his family. For Cesar, that desire was rooted in his own childhood experiences.

He grew up in a home where conflict and intense arguments were common. When tensions escalated, he often left the house until everything was over. But when he returned, the distance between family members, the tears, and the emotional wounds remained. There were also times when discipline felt harsh. 

Some memories still affect Cesar today. When his two sons argue, he sometimes finds himself thinking about conflicts between his older brothers that deeply impacted his family. 

“I do not want my children to repeat those patterns,” Cesar said. “I want them to respect one another, care for each other’s hearts, and understand the value of their relationship as brothers.”

Cesar’s experiences shaped his motivation to create a different kind of environment for his own children and become a more intentional father. He wanted to build a home defined not by conflict, but by love, patience, respect, and healthy communication.

After attending the first RHCK session, any doubts Cesar had about the workshop quickly faded. “I need to be here,” he remembered thinking. “This program can give me tools to be a better father.”

One experience in the workshop resonated the most with Cesar. As another parent described the frustration of trying to manage a household when children didn’t follow directions, he saw his own family’s struggles reflected in her story. The exchange reminded him that many parents face similar challenges, and it made him feel less alone in his journey. The supportive environment helped him stay committed, and each session confirmed that his investment of time was worthwhile.

Making Changes His Family Could Feel

Before RHCK, tension and arguments were common in Cesar’s home. Like many parents balancing work, stress, and family responsibilities, he sometimes struggled to communicate and respond in difficult moments. While he deeply loved his family, he recognized that some of his habits were creating distance.

Throughout the RHCK program, he learned about the 40 Developmental Assets, the building blocks that equip parents to lead their children in healthy ways. For Cesar, the most impactful asset was “positive family communication.” It helped him learn and maintain practical tools for managing his emotions, communicating more effectively, and becoming a better listener. 

“In the past, I would often react quickly. Today, I try to pause, be more patient, and put myself in my child’s position. I try to ask questions and understand what they are feeling at that moment before responding,” Cesar said.

Cesar’s kids noticed the change in him. “At one point,” he recalled, “my children even asked their mother, ‘What is happening to Dad? He used to react differently, and now he is much more patient and doesn’t get angry as quickly.’”

The program also helped Cesar communicate better with his wife. “When she gives me advice about how to approach a situation with our children, I listen more carefully and try to work together with her,” Cesar said. “Overall, I have become much more intentional about building stronger communication within our family.”

The transformation was so meaningful that Cesar wanted other families to experience it, too. After completing RHCK, he encouraged his supervisor at Corners Outreach to bring the program to that organization. His efforts were successful, and today RHCK is helping even more parents around Norcross strengthen their relationships with their children.

Redefining What Success Means as a Parent

Cesar credits RHCK with helping him become a better husband, father, professional, and overall person. 

Five years ago, Cesar’s primary goal was finding a better job and creating financial stability for his family. While those goals still matter, he now believes one of the most important investments he can make is building a strong foundation at home—one rooted in trust, communication, and connection. That commitment shows up in simple but intentional ways. No matter how busy life becomes, Cesar prioritizes dedicated time with his children, even if it’s only 20 uninterrupted minutes of conversation each day.

He now measures success differently. It’s no longer defined by the job he holds or the hours he works, but by the relationships he’s building with the people he loves most.

Cesar’s story is a reminder that families will grow stronger when parents are supported. And when families thrive, entire communities benefit. What began as one father’s commitment to being more present has already helped other families through Corners Outreach, and Cesar hopes that impact will continue to spread. 

Bring the Transformation of RHCK to Your Family and Community

If you’re interested in getting the tools and support to bring more strength and stability to your family, please visit our Raising Highly Capable Kids page.

All images courtesy of Cesar Martinez.

The post The Father He Wanted to Be: Cesar’s Transformation Through RHCK appeared first on For Opportunity.

Because growing vibrant, resilient communities isn’t ever a solo endeavor, ReCAST coordinators connected with local organizations that could meet the needs of underserved residents where it mattered most—in Lawrenceville’s homes and neighborhoods. 

ReCAST engages three dynamic partners to meet its goals. Impact46 provides essential housing services to people experiencing financial hardship. View Point Health offers mental and behavioral health assistance. And the Ģ����Ƶ Center for Opportunity (GCO) helps chronically unemployed or underemployed people prepare for and find rewarding work.

Eric Cochling, GCO’s Chief Program Officer and General Counsel, noted:

“We chose to participate in ReCAST because of the comprehensive approach to addressing community needs envisioned by the initiative. The focus on collaboration among local groups and on helping families develop community relationships reflects GCO’s method of supporting people in need.”

Lawrenceville recently produced a mini-documentary highlighting the third year of ReCAST’s accomplishments. It shows what’s possible when community members unite to open doors to a brighter future for local residents.

Connecting Lawrenceville job seekers with meaningful work

Employment plays a key role in healing communities after stress and trauma. In Gwinnett County, where Lawrenceville is located, GCO’s BETTER WORK program furthers ReCAST’s goals by bringing together local employers, nonprofits, and mentors to help people find fulfilling jobs close to home.

Carolina Pachon, GCO’s BETTER WORK Program Manager in Gwinnett County, explained that the program changes lives by giving people “a sense of hope, stability, and a way forward.”

As part of the BETTER WORK initiative, GCO offers a class called Jobs for Life. The class teaches valuable work skills, but it’s much more than a job training or placement course. It helps participants form the supportive community relationships that can point them in a new direction in life.

During the class, Jobs for Life students learn that meaningful work brings more than just a paycheck. It provides a sense of dignity and purpose that’s essential for human flourishing. A rewarding job also gives workers the confidence and courage to rise out of poverty and build a better future. This resiliency then spreads, revitalizing and strengthening workers’ families and communities as well.

GCO’s programs are particularly impactful in Lawrenceville, where many residents struggle with barriers to opportunity. The city’s poverty rate is 17.2%, well above Gwinnett County’s average rate of 10.5%. The higher poverty rate also correlates with data showing that about 19% of prime-age (25-54) adults in Lawrenceville aren’t currently working.

Sparking change in a young man’s life

Josiah, a young Lawrenceville resident, found Jobs for Life at a point when he most needed his local community to listen and offer support. He was having a hard time finding a sense of purpose in his life.

Carolina described Josiah as shy at first, but during the class, she saw a big transformation in his mindset. Josiah’s self-esteem soared as facilitators and fellow students created a caring community around him. At the end of the program, he gave an inspiring graduation speech emphasizing the significance of the personal connections he’d made. “I’ve come to believe that the purpose of life is to build meaningful relationships with people,” he shared.

Josiah now works in a restaurant and has a passion for cooking. He’s looking for ways to combine this enthusiasm with his desire to serve others. “I’m super excited,” he said.

Josiah offered this valuable advice to others who are struggling: “Let go of uncertainty. If you think you want to do something, do it.”

Making Lawrenceville a true hometown

Communities grow stronger when people invest in the well-being of their neighbors. ReCAST enables Lawrenceville residents to do just that through vital local initiatives.

Support for neighbors who need a hand empowers people like Josiah to take meaningful steps forward, to rise out of poverty, and to help the whole community thrive. The interconnectedness that ReCAST has set in motion makes Lawrenceville a true hometown—a place to belong—for the individuals and families who live there.

The post Recasting Lawrenceville as a Resilient, Connected Community appeared first on For Opportunity.

These numbers suggest trends at a high level, but they don’t reflect the biggest poverty-related issue, both for the nation and for Ģ����Ƶ: the concentration of poverty in specific neighborhoods. Instead of affecting only certain individuals and families, poverty is enveloping entire communities. This is leading to significant geographic and societal separations among Ģ����Ƶns—not only financially, but also in terms of opportunities for education, work, and family formation.

Randy Hicks, the Ģ����Ƶ Center for Opportunity’s President and CEO, also shared that:

“The national numbers don’t tell us much about poverty from the perspective of the person or community experiencing it. They fail to convey that poverty is much more than a material issue for those who are struggling. Research has shown that people living in neighborhoods with high concentrations of poverty lack the essential local network of supportive relationships that’s crucial for helping them thrive and rise out of poverty.”

At a glance: facts on concentrated poverty in Ģ����Ƶ

• Ģ����Ƶ’s poverty rate: 13.5%—2.9% above the national average, ranking 38th.��
• Poverty exceeds the national rate in 133 of Ģ����Ƶ’s 159 counties.��
• Atlanta’s poverty rate: 18.1% overall; 27.2% among children.
• Lawrenceville’s poverty rate: 17.2%, compared with Gwinnett County’s 10.5%.
• Southern and central Ģ����Ƶ show especially high concentrations of poverty.

Breaking down Ģ����Ƶ’s poverty landscape

Ģ����Ƶ’s average poverty rate was 13.5% in 2023, per the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, or 2.9% higher than the national rate. 

This difference may seem slight, but it puts Ģ����Ƶ 38th in the country when it comes to poverty. Poverty rates in 133 of Ģ����Ƶ’s 159 counties also exceed the national rate. 

Within counties, concentrations of poverty exist in particular cities. For example, Atlanta, the county seat of Fulton County, has a poverty rate of 18.1%. Poverty is even more concentrated among the city’s children, with 27.2% living in poverty. These numbers are significantly higher than the county’s average poverty rate of 12.6%.

Lawrenceville, in Gwinnett County, also struggles with concentrated poverty at a rate of 17.2%. The county’s average poverty rate is just 10.5%. 

In many cases, poverty rates are higher than the state average in central and southern Ģ����Ƶ, suggesting concentrations of poverty in communities in those regions.

Impacts of increasing concentrations of poverty

In neighborhoods with higher poverty levels, residents experience many negative impacts, including limited access to quality education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. They also struggle with increased crime and inadequate housing and living conditions. These factors significantly hinder social and economic mobility and contribute to cycles of poverty that are difficult to escape.

Eric Cochling, the Ģ����Ƶ Center for Opportunity’s Chief Program Officer and General Counsel, noted:

“Poverty has an especially big impact at the local level. It’s a crisis of human well-being. These neighborhoods are often missing the vital community connections and social institutions that help people navigate life’s challenges. As social isolation and disengagement from work increase, people suffer from the loss of purpose and belonging that work and relationships provide.”

Ģ����Ƶ the Ģ����Ƶ Center for Opportunity

The Ģ����Ƶ Center for Opportunity is a nonprofit organization that works to remove barriers to ensure that every person—no matter their race, past mistakes, or the circumstances of their birth—has access to safe communities, a quality education, fulfilling work, and a healthy family life. Learn more at foropportunity.org.

###

Ģ����Ƶ Center for Opportunity (GCO) is independent, non-partisan, and solutions-focused. Our team is dedicated to creating opportunities for a quality education, fulfilling work, and a healthy family life for all Ģ����Ƶns. To achieve our mission, we research ways to help remove barriers to opportunity in each of these pathways, promote our solutions to policymakers and the public, and help effective and innovative social enterprises deliver results in their communities.

Send media inquiries to:

Rebecca Primis
Ģ����Ƶ Center for Opportunity
rebeccap@foropportunity.org

The post National Poverty Rate Fails to Capture the Problem of Poverty Concentration in Ģ����Ƶ and Beyond appeared first on For Opportunity.

Quendasia’s life was changed forever when she was seriously injured in a car crash several years ago. The accident left her with a traumatic brain injury that made returning to work a challenge. She spent five years struggling with unemployment before hearing about the Ģ����Ƶ Center for Opportunity (GCO) program—and its partnership with Jobs for Life.

Like many job-seekers, Quendasia discovered BETTER WORK in a moment of crisis or urgent need. And because GCO prioritizes building a network of community resources and employer partners, we were able to help her find support for her immediate needs.

But part of what makes BETTER WORK unique—and effective—is that we help people move from crisis into developing connections and a fresh mindset to pursue long-term, stable work. This is where BETTER WORK and (JFL) came alongside Quendasia to help her envision and pursue a professional path that was so much more than just a paycheck.

This gets to the heartbeat of GCO—to remove barriers to opportunity and foster thriving communities in which everyone can achieve their fullest potential. Work is a key piece of the puzzle—not only because it unlocks economic mobility, but also because it empowers people to find fulfillment in a sense of personal and collective purpose, structured routines, and relationships that lead to belonging and support.

Together, BETTER WORK and Jobs for Life empower people to see that they have a valuable place in their communities and can make unique contributions through work. 

Back in 2022, we recognized that the focus of our BETTER WORK initiative strongly aligned with the vision and values of Jobs for Life, a network of job-training groups available through churches and nonprofit organizations that break down barriers to work. Originally launched in 1996 in Raleigh, North Carolina, JFL is now available in more than 300 cities nationwide.

This shared vision led to a collaboration with the power to transform the lives of individuals, families, and whole communities.

In Columbus, which is home to one of our BETTER WORK chapters, we partner with Jobs for Life to offer an 11-week course that pairs participants with a one-on-one mentor. JFL’s curriculum has the benefit of incorporating essential skill training and behavioral development into its model. Each class provides two hours of instruction in soft skills, discussions on the importance of work in daily life, and exercises in character development.

Back to Quendasia’s story. 

Prior to coming to Jobs for Life, she had a GED and she was planning to go to college. Through JFL, she honed practical and essential work skills—like how to interact with others and show up on time. These details seem small, but they are often the tools people need most to capably and confidently pursue meaningful work and realize their inherent personal value. 

“Jobs for Life got my mind back on track for working. I met different people and learned different skills,” Quendasia shared. “Before Jobs for Life, I didn’t feel confident enough to get a job. I didn’t really believe in myself. But now I know I can do it.”

BETTER WORK’s Jobs for Life class in Columbus, GA, introduces participants to community resources and champions that offer support on their journeys to pursuing long-term, meaningful work. 

The discovery of personal potential and worth is at the heart of BETTER WORK and Jobs for Life. Both programs share the core belief that everyone has an inherent, God-given dignity worthy of recognition and respect. Through their shared focus on relational support, human connections, and community, BETTER WORK and Jobs for Life empower people to see that they have a valuable place in their communities and can make unique contributions through work. 

Today, Quendasia works at Piedmont Healthcare—an opportunity she never would have had without the support and networking she found through JFL.

The BETTER WORK partnership with Jobs for Life allows GCO to leverage our existing network of employers, community leaders, and resource providers to make JFL classes even more successful for the local churches and organizations that choose to host and sponsor the training in a BETTER WORK community.

Take one more example. Recently, Tiarra connected with BETTER WORK through our partnership with the Jobs for Life program. She was looking for new opportunities at a job fair after losing her job.

“The class pushed me even further,” Tiarra said. “I wouldn’t have ever found my mentor or the job I’m in right now. I love all the teachers. Every lesson was a blessing,” 

Today, Tiarra is at Troy University online school working toward a bachelor’s degree in social work. “I used to live in fear, and now I embrace challenges and try to work through them instead of shying away from them,” she added.

Across the nation, the need for programs like BETTER WORK and Jobs for Life is significant:, as of February 2024, nearly 6.5 million Americans were unemployed, 22 million were underemployed, and 80% of workers were disengaged. 

These numbers can seem overwhelming and even impossible to change. But that only becomes true when we forget that the biggest differences start close to home. 

When it comes to empowering vibrant communities and upward mobility, the most important place to start is at the community level. That’s what BETTER WORK and Jobs for Life are built for. Quendasia and Tiarra’s stories are testimonies to the good that can come when mission-aligned programs like BETTER WORK and Jobs for Life work together to build hope and opportunities in the places where people need them most—in the communities where everyday lives are lived.

The post BETTER WORK and Jobs for Life: Giving Ģ����Ƶns a Path to Find Purpose and Possibility in Work appeared first on For Opportunity.

• Our BETTER WORK program harnesses the transformative power of local partnerships to get more people hired and build prosperous, stable communities.

• Four standout collaborators—Essendant, Neighborhood Cooperative Ministries, D.P. Jones Electrical, and Chattahoochee Valley Episcopal Ministries (CVEM)—are showing how business and nonprofit involvement can fuel economic opportunity and serve the holistic needs of those working to escape poverty.

• Together, GCO and our partners are dedicated to more than building better work. We’re building environments where everyone has a chance to reach their full potential.

In the tapestry of a thriving community, threads of collaboration weave a narrative of hope and opportunity for those who need it most. The collective efforts of local organizations, community leaders, and neighbors form the foundation upon which individuals facing challenges can build a brighter future.��

In the pursuit of creating a more prosperous and stable community, the Ģ����Ƶ Center for Opportunity’s (GCO) BETTER WORK program has harnessed the transformative power of partnerships. Among these alliances, four standout collaborators—Essendant, Neighborhood Cooperative Ministries, D.P. Jones Electrical, and Chattahoochee Valley Episcopal Ministries (CVEM)—exemplify how synergy between businesses and nonprofits makes it possible for communities to experience greater transformation and well-being.��

Essendant: A Distributor with a Difference

Type of Business: Distinguished distribution company based in Suwanee, Ģ����Ƶ.

Partnership History: Has been an employer partner in GCO’s BETTER WORK Gwinnett (BWG) program since August 2022.��

Their Impact: ’s involvement is not merely transactional—it represents a commitment to community growth and development. By actively participating in the BETTER WORK program, Essendant contributes to the creation of a more vibrant and economically stable community.��

• Their commitment to the program is evident in their proactive approach, going above and beyond in reaching out and interviewing every candidate referred by GCO.
• Their consistency in communication has been a cornerstone of their partnership. By keeping us updated on the progress of candidates, they ensure a transparent and collaborative process.
• Three individuals referred by BWG have been employed at Essendant for over three months, highlighting the tangible impact of this partnership on local employment opportunities.

Neighborhood Cooperative Ministries: Nurturing Communities, Transforming Lives

Type of Business: Nonprofit organization in Norcross, Ģ����Ƶ.

Partnership History: Has been a community partner since the inception of GCO’s BETTER WORK program.��

Their Impact: NCM has stood as an unwavering partner, embodying values of compassion, faithfulness, and trustworthiness that align seamlessly with the BETTER WORK initiative’s people-centric approach. Their impact extends well beyond the professional realm, delving into the core of individual needs.��

• Their comprehensive support system—encompassing financial aid, shelter, and food resources—plays a pivotal role in empowering candidates referred by the BETTER WORK program.��
• NCM’s commitment to addressing the holistic needs of individuals creates an environment where securing employment becomes a stepping stone toward self-sufficiency.
  
• Together, BETTER WORK and NCM orchestrate various initiatives, with NCM hosting job events that connect job seekers with potential employers. NCM’s clients benefit from the invaluable support provided by the BETTER WORK program, including job coaching, resume assistance, and essential career advice.

“Through these partnerships, GCO and our collaborators are doing so much more than building better work. We are tirelessly constructing a better future for all, fostering an environment where individuals can reach their full potential and proving that this approach is possible for any community seeking hope and opportunity.”

“Through these partnerships, GCO and our collaborators are doing so much more than building better work. We are tirelessly constructing a better future for all, fostering an environment where individuals can reach their full potential and proving that this approach is possible for any community seeking hope and opportunity.”

D.P. Jones Electrical: Illuminating Opportunities

Type of Business: Family-owned and operated business established in 1939.��

Partnership History: Recent addition to the employer partner network for BETTER WORK Columbus.��

Their Impact: brings with them a legacy of customer satisfaction and an eagerness to give back to the community.��

• Their commitment to offering opportunities is exemplified by the employment of a BETTER WORK candidate who was initially feeling defeated in his job search.

• The collaborative efforts between the candidate, the BETTER WORK team, and D.P. Jones Electrical resulted in permanent full-time employment. Edward Russel, the newest member of the D.P. Jones’ team, expresses his appreciation for working in a company that values him and shares his family values.

• The company’s commitment to on-the-job training provides individuals like Edward with the chance to learn a trade while supporting their families.

Chattahoochee Valley Episcopal Ministries (CVEM): Empowering Communities in Times of Need

Type of Business: A non-profit outreach ministry in Columbus, GA

Partnership History: Community partner with BETTER WORK Columbus

Their Impact: stands as a beacon of support for individuals facing great need or crisis.��

• Collaborating with BETTER WORK Columbus, CVEM addresses concerns related to housing, medical expenses, household furnishings, education, and job-related expenses.��
• Their flexibility and responsiveness empower individuals to succeed as they position themselves for better job opportunities and futures.

Partnerships Unlock the Life-Changing Power of Work

It’s through local partnerships that we are able to help more people achieve a better life through the power of work. Partners like Essendant, Neighborhood Cooperative Ministries, D.P. Jones Electrical, and Chattahoochee Valley Episcopal Ministries are a few of the shining examples that illustrate the positive outcomes that come from strategic alliances.��

Through these partnerships, GCO and our collaborators are doing so much more than building better work. We are tirelessly constructing a better future for all, fostering an environment where individuals can reach their full potential and proving that this approach is possible for any community seeking hope and opportunity.��

Learn More Ģ����Ƶ Partnering with BETTER WORK

If you are connected to a business or nonprofit organization interested in collaborating with our local BETTER WORK chapters, go here to learn more and contact us:

The post Building Better Work: The Power of Community and Business Partnerships appeared first on For Opportunity.

Lawrenceville, Ga. – Lilly Endowment Inc. has awarded an endowment grant to Lawrenceville First United Methodist Church. The grant will enable the church to facilitate the Raising Highly Capable Kids parenting program — called the Parents First Initiative — across the Lawrenceville community.

The Parents First Initiative is a unique partnership designed to empower parents to equip their kids for life. By leveraging the Raising Highly Capable Kids program, the initiative will help parents develop the skills they need while building the meaningful relationships that weave a community together.

“We are thrilled for the opportunity to work alongside Lawrenceville First United Methodist to make this curriculum available to more Ģ����Ƶ families,” said Joyce Mayberry, vice president of family at GCO. “The endowment will help this critical curriculum continue to thrive. Beyond resilient kids, we’re focused on building resilient communities. This grant will help us make a bigger difference in the lives of families across the state.”

“We need a village to raise kids today and we want to help build that village together,” said Rev. Dr. Adam Hilderbrandt of Lawrenceville First United Methodist Church. “Raising Highly Capable Kids’ 13-week course will give footings to build this village and the connections made will allow the village to grow from there.”

The Raising Highly Capable Kids program empowers adults to become stronger parents with healthier families. Its 13-week-long, evidence-based curriculum gives adults the tools and skills they need to confidently raise children who are caring, responsible, and healthy.��

is presented by the Ģ����Ƶ Center for Opportunity, in partnership with . It’s currently being offered to adults in communities across Ģ����Ƶ.��

The objective of Raising Highly Capable Kids is to help kids have healthier outcomes across all areas of their lives, including family life, academics, mental health, social wellbeing, and their eventual careers. By focusing on the family unit and the whole child, the program improves parent-child communication, strengthens bonds, and helps kids to avoid risky behaviors.

“We’re opening lines of communication between parents and students and improving academic outcomes,” Mayberry said. “And, we’re helping parents to see their strengths in parenting, equipping them with the right tools and resources to be successful.”��

The program also connects parents to one another, creating a stronger community as parents learn how to create healthier, more effective environments for their children. According to Mayberry, it’s critically important for parents to understand that they’re not alone, and they have support along the journey.��

One of the program’s most unique aspects is its focus on where parents excel in their roles as they raise their kids.��

“We’re here to support them and identify their strengths,” Mayberry said.��

According to Mayberry, this program isn’t just about improving parenting skills and kids’ outcomes in the here and now. It’s about facilitating change across entire communities and carrying those changes into the future for generations to come.��

“Through Raising Highly Capable Kids, we’re going to change the trajectory of families,” said Mayberry. “We’ll change the parents’ lives and the kids’ in turn. It’s all about generational transformation.”��

The bottom line is that communities need more programs like the Parents First Initiative. Raising Highly Capable Kids depends on community organizations, churches, and schools to get involved and help to facilitate its curriculum in local communities. From volunteer teachers to organizations that incentivize parents to complete their classes, there are many ways to get involved.

If you or your organization would like to help with Raising Highly Capable Kids, we’re looking for leaders in:��

• • School environments who can provide parents in their communities with the tools they need to help their kids succeed in academics
  • Churches who are willing to offer courses locally
  • Nonprofit organizations who are willing to host local classes��

There is also an ongoing need for volunteers to teach the courses wherever they’re made available.

Want to get involved? Get in touch with Joyce Mayberry at joycem@foropportunity.org.

The post Lilly Grant Will Bring the Parents First Initiative to Lawrenceville, Enabling Families to Thrive appeared first on For Opportunity.

Key Points

• Community Collaboration for Empowerment: The Collaborative Community Connection (C3) organized a successful job fair in South Columbus through a partnership involving various entities, including the City of Columbus Parks and Recreation, Boys and Girls Club of the Chattahoochee Valley, Goodwill Southern Rivers, YMCA of Metro Columbus GA, BETTER WORK Columbus team, and more.��
• Diverse Employment Opportunities: The job fair showcased a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, law enforcement, and retail, providing immediate employment opportunities.��
• Impact and Hope for Neglected Community: Better Work Columbus played a significant role in assisting job seekers and facilitating connections with potential employers. Beyond the event’s surface, the job fair highlighted the significance of community support for an often-neglected area.

In a display of community solidarity, the Collaborative Community Connection (C3) recently hosted a transformative job fair at the Frank Chester Recreation Center. This dynamic partnership, comprising entities such as the City of Columbus Parks and Recreation, Boys and Girls Club of the Chattahoochee Valley, Goodwill Southern Rivers, YMCA of Metro Columbus GA, our team and more, united to channel resources where they’re needed most in South Columbus. The event’s spotlight shone on a diverse range of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, law enforcement, and retail, all of which offered immediate employment opportunities. With local employers like Pratt and Whitney, Aflac, and Kia in attendance, the job fair collectively sought to fill over 2,000 positions.

One organization that played a pivotal role in the success of the event was Better Work Columbus. Their on-site assistance and support proved invaluable in helping job seekers navigate the job fair and connect with potential employers.The job fair’s impact reverberated beyond the surface, as it underscored the importance of community support in an area that has often faced neglect. By uniting organizations with a shared goal of upliftment, C3 demonstrated their unwavering belief in the untapped potential and inherent value of South Columbus residents.

Beyond the event’s surface, the job fair highlighted the significance of community support for an often-neglected area. It emphasized the belief in the potential of South Columbus residents and demonstrated that collaborative efforts can lead to transformative change and a brighter future for the community.

Beyond the event’s surface, the job fair highlighted the significance of community support for an often-neglected area. It emphasized the belief in the potential of South Columbus residents and demonstrated that collaborative efforts can lead to transformative change and a brighter future for the community.

The C3 job fair not only provided a platform for individuals to secure gainful employment but also symbolized a beacon of hope for an often-overlooked community. It signified that collaborative efforts, like those of C3, can bridge gaps, open doors, and amplify voices that deserve to be heard. As this successful event has shown, when a community comes together with dedication and purpose, it can spark transformative change and pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.

The post Empowering South Columbus Through Collaboration: C3 Job Fair Success appeared first on For Opportunity.

Key Points

• ��The BETTER WORK Program attracted over 60 participants seeking employment assistance.
• The event brought together job seekers, employers, and mentors in Lawrenceville and Norcross.
• The Gwinnett Housing Corporation, , and the ��joined forces, pooling their resources to help those in the community in need.��

recently organized an event that brought together job seekers, employers, and mentors in Lawrenceville and Norcross. The event was a resounding success, attracting over 60 individuals interested in the .

The BETTER WORK Program: Assisting Job Seekers

The BETTER WORK Program, a centerpiece of the event, garnered significant attention from attendees. Job seekers flocked to the program seeking much-needed employment assistance. By participating in the Better Work Program, individuals gain access to valuable resources and support, increasing their chances of securing meaningful employment. The program offers a range of services, including resume building, interview preparation, and job placement assistance.

A Portal for Success: Sign-ups and Employment Assistance

The event witnessed an overwhelming response, with numerous attendees signing up for the BETTER WORK Program through the designated online portal. Overjoyed by the level of interest, our team was delighted to assist these individuals in taking their first steps towards a better future. By providing a user-friendly portal, we streamlined the sign-up process, ensuring a seamless experience for all participants.

Together, these organizations demonstrated their commitment to empowering individuals in the Lawrenceville and Norcross communities, providing them with the tools and support they need to thrive.

Together, these organizations demonstrated their commitment to empowering individuals in the Lawrenceville and Norcross communities, providing them with the tools and support they need to thrive.

Collaboration for Community Success

The success of the event can be attributed to the collaborative efforts of multiple organizations. The Gwinnett Housing Corporation, , and the joined forces, pooling their resources to make this event a reality. Together, these organizations demonstrated their commitment to empowering individuals in the Lawrenceville and Norcross communities, providing them with the tools and support they need to thrive. As we celebrate the success of this event, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those involved in making it possible. Together, we are building a brighter future for the Lawrenceville and Norcross communities.��

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A few years ago, (NCM) acquired a complex to further the mission of helping neighbors who sincerely want to break their cycle of poverty and regain financial independence. To remind the community of its expanded facilities and partnerships with other nonprofits, NCM invited the community to an event called Tacos + Tours.

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We’ve got some exciting news to share about what’s ahead in 2023! The Ģ����Ƶ Center for Opportunity has partnered with a national nonprofit, , to present the to adults across Ģ����Ƶ. The program is specially designed to equip parents to address common child issues in our state.

Here’s a quick rundown on the new curriculum. Raising Highly Capable Kids is a 13-week evidence-based parenting program developed to build stronger families by empowering parents with the confidence, tools, and skills they need to raise healthy, caring, and responsible children. The program increases parents’ knowledge and skill level of the essential building blocks every child needs — , which are proven to increase childhood resiliency and academic achievement.

The lessons are available to schools, nonprofits, churches, and other organizations focused on helping to build stronger families for Ģ����Ƶ — and ultimately stronger communities. Through a community grant issued by RezilientKidz, GCO is facilitating course offerings for interested parents who want to learn more effective skills and strategies as they raise their children. 

“It’s not just about creating resilient kids. It’s about creating resilient communities,” says Joyce Mayberry, vice president of family at GCO.

Today, kids in Ģ����Ƶ are facing high levels of “at-risk behavior” that sets them up for struggles in one or more areas of their lives. Ultimately, they could face unfavorable outcomes that affect them long-term — possibly for the rest of their lives. The Raising Highly Capable Kids program teaches parents the skills required to help keep their children from engaging in these risky and destructive behaviors.

To make Raising Highly Capable Kids successful, we’re depending on help from communities statewide. Here’s who we’re looking for: 

• School leaders to provide local parents with the tools they need to help their children succeed academically.��
• Church leaders to offer courses in their communities, with the goals of increasing local involvement and reducing risky behaviors.��
• Nonprofit leaders and organizations to host community-based classes that ultimately reduce family and emotional stress by helping kids avoid destructive patterns.��
• Donors to enable these leaders and organizations to offer classes for parents statewide.

Ultimately, Raising Highly Capable Kids is about helping our young people thrive and live their best possible lives. 

“We want youth to be seen, heard, and valued. Every child,” Mayberry says. “Then they will show up as their best selves.”

It’s not just about creating resilient kids. It’s about creating resilient communities.

Joyce Mayberry , VP of Family

A look inside the Raising Highly Capable Kids 13-week curriculum

The Raising Highly Capable Kids curriculum is built around the Search Institute’s, compiled from decades of research involving more than 5 million young people. Parents who attend training will learn from curriculum materials built on the foundation of the developmental assets. Children won’t attend these classes, as they’re geared exclusively toward adults. 

The course is split into thirteen weeks worth of materials for parents and ranges from self assessment of parenting skills and history to monitoring social media and even building a family identity.

How you can help

We need community support — which means we need you! We’re looking for trainers, location providers, wraparound services, and individuals and organizations willing to fund the initiative. 

GCO is holding a vision casting session on March 9, 2023, and if you represent a church or nonprofit that wants to get involved, you’re invited. During that time, we’ll gather all participating organizations in one room to learn more about the The Raising Highly Capable Kids curriculum as a unit. Please register for the event here.

After the March 9 event, we’ll begin training for those individuals who signed up to launch a class. Training will take place in one four-hour session on March 25, 2023. Throughout the process, GCO will be facilitating, consulting, and ensuring all participating volunteers have the books and training materials they need to be successful. 

Contact Joyce Mayberry at joycem@foropportunity.org if you’d like to volunteer time or facilities. Alternatively, if you know someone who would be a great trainer, share your referrals with us. We’re looking forward to hearing from you and kicking off this new initiative!

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