"We give a damn about our fellow mankind more than any other society ever has and we actually do something about it."
A major factor contributing to the rebirth of Atlanta’s Intown neighborhoods has been the rise in volunteerism and community involvement from existing and new residents. I strongly support this philosophy because of the immense benefits a strong community means to the overall quality of life for its residents. Check out a few things I'm personally and professionally involved with.
Habitat for Humanity: http://www.atlanta-habitat.org
This is a great organization that has been serving Atlanta for over 20 years. They recently committed to exclusively building high efficiency"Earth Craft"homes in an effort to make home ownership both affordable and environmentally sustainable. And if you want a great deal on building products new and old check out the ReStore at 519 Memorial Drive. You’ll find some great stuff and the proceeds go towards supporting Habitat for Humanity. Plan an outing from your office. You’ll be sore for a few days but there is nothing like driving past a house and knowing you helped to build it for someone truly deserving.
Paws Atlanta: http://www.pawsatlanta.com
The mission of PAWS Atlanta, Inc. is to provide shelter, food and medical care for abandoned pets, and to ensure they are placed in safe, loving homes. Their mission encompasses three goals:
1. Advance the no-kill philosophy
2. Reduce pet overpopulation through spaying or neutering; and
3. Educate the community regarding responsible and humane care of pets.
Formerly the Dekalb Humane Society, this group is a no kill shelter who do some great work in the Metro area and have fun doing it. Check out the annual Fall Flea Ball at the Fernbank Natural History Museum with proceeds benefitting Paws Atlanta. What makes them unique is the way they match an animal’s temperament and personality to the potential owners (which they screen) before adopting their animals out. Its a win-win for everyone. I donate $100 from every home sold to the shelter in the name of my clients and personally have 2 rescue dogs.
Community Associations (look under my neighborhoods links for more info):
These neighborhood organizations are the building blocks of our city government. Nothing can happen in our communities, from zoning to liquor licenses, without going through the association and then the local NPU (Neighorhood Planning Unit). They provide a forum for the individual’s voice to be heard and a vehicle to promote the great things in our city and hinder the things that hurt our neighborhoods. City government officials have recognized this voice and understand their importance to the process. If you’re not a member go check out a meeting or two out. Most Intown neighborhood associations are listed on this site under the Neighborhood Links page so find yours and pay them a visit. You’ll definitely learn something and might even meet a few more of your neighbors.
East Atlanta Business Association - President
Now in my 2nd year of service, Our stated goal is to raise awareness of the small businesses that comprise one of Atlanta's most exciting and authentic commercial districts. The diversity and excitement is unparalleled and we're proud of the entrepeneurial spirit that has taken root and grown in our little neighborhood. Come visit and discover it for yourself (you'll probably want to buy a house here, too).
www.eastatlantavillage.net
