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Human Services Summit to Address South Fulton Issues on April 18

On April 18, the South Fulton Human Services Coalition will hold its second annual summit from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Andrew & Walter Young Family YMCA (2220 Campbellton Road, SW). The theme of the event is “The Urgency of Now: Transforming South Fulton County.” Event organizers aim to closely examine socio-economic factors that impact residents, and how to attract much-needed resources to the area including workforce development and mental health services. 

The summit brings together neighborhood leaders, business owners, faith-based volunteers, elected officials and service agency professionals to develop a shared vision of what makes a community vibrant and inclusive. The agenda will include a presentation on “Livable Communities” by AARP Georgia, with a focus on affordable housing, quality health services, transportation and walkability. 

The South Fulton Human Services Coalition was first launched nearly two decades ago at the suggestion of then Commissioner William Edwards, who now serves as the City of South Fulton’s mayor. The coalition meets monthly, providing a forum for stakeholders to gather for networking, sharing, learning, and action on critical issues related to education, family well-being, public policy, and creating safe and economically-viable communities.

Since its inception, the coalition has partnered with local organizations to meet the needs of South Fulton families, providing food, clothing, rent assistance and other resources. Notably, in partnership with the East Point Community Action Team, the group coordinated the area’s first homeless census count. 

Last year’s summit welcomed more than 70 participants, and speakers included South Fulton’s Mayor Edwards and Union City’s Mayor Vince Williams. Points of emphasis for Mayor Edwards at the event in 2018 included environmental justice, public safety, housing, school performance and mental health, as well as the need for wraparound concepts to provide holistic solutions.  

The South Fulton Human Services Coalition’s 2019 summit is free and open to the public. Breakfast and lunch will be provided. Advanced registration is required via Eventbrite

Photo Credit: South Fulton Human Services Coalition

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