April 2022

Thank you, sponsors and supporters

who roared and raised more than

$292,000

On April 14th, we gathered for fellowship, fun and fundraising at Georgia Appleseed's 17th Annual Fundraiser and Celebration supporting justice for Georgia's children and honoring 2022 Good Apple Award Winners (see below).

The elephants, giraffes and ostriches were on view from the terraces of the Savanna Ballroom at Zoo Atlanta. Animal ambassadors Tameko the hedgehog and Harriet the armadillo also made an appearance. Attendees enjoyed "The Roar" apple martini, hors d’oeuvres, and fantastic musical entertainment from youth musicians and Phat Katz brass band.

Most importantly, we shared the stories about Georgia Appleseed's impact, and raised critical funds to continue advancing equity and justice for Georgia's children and families. Through event sponsorships, tickets and our fund-the-mission program, we raised over $292,000. This support propels us forward with new energy, resources and drive.

It’s not too late to get in on the fun. View event highlights and photos, pay your pledge, or make a donation at www.roaringforjustice.org.

Good Apple Award Winners

Pictured from left to right: Good Apple Awardees Josette Franklin of DFCS, Tomieka Daniel and Rick Rufolo of GLSP; Georgia Appleseed Executive Director Michael Waller and Board Member Matt Bozzelli; Jeff Firestone of UPS; and Georgia Appleseed Board Chair Tori Silas.

2022

Good Apple

Awardees

Corporate partner: UPS

Outstanding Support of Economic Equity and Empowerment.

Non-profit partner: Georgia Legal Services Program (GLSP)

Outstanding Advocacy for Children in Care

Individual: Dr. Josette Franklin, the Georgia Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS)

Outstanding Advocacy for Children in Care

Legislative Round-Up

Although this legislative session produced laws Georgia Appleseed believe will negatively impact school climate, there were positive reforms in mental health and child safety.

A highlight is the Mental Health Parity Bill, which was signed into law on April 4, after unanimous votes in both chambers. The overhaul requires insurance companies to pay for mental health services as they would physical health services. These reforms should provide Georgians with greater access to mental health services and substance abuse treatment.

Georgia Appleseed also applauds the passage of a bill to strengthen protections for Georgia’s children against lead poisoning. The new law lowers the amount of lead found in children’s blood that triggers state regulatory action, including testing, warning letters, and correction of the problem. The State Department of Health estimates that the new regulations will protect thousands of additional children each year.

Georgia Appleseed generated new awareness and discussion around the role of out-of-state and large, institutional investors on Georgia’s low-income communities. Executive Director, Michael Waller, recently testified before a US Senate Committee to encourage federal reforms that will help Georgia communities.

Each year, Americans volunteer nearly 8.8 billion hours. We are grateful that to our pro bono volunteers who together share thousands of hours with Georgia Appleseed each year.

In honor of Volunteer Appreciation Week, April 17-23, we highlight Allison Pryor (top left) and Lauren Tilahslaski (bottom left). Allison is an executive member of Georgia Appleseed's Young Professionals Council and represented a child in foster care before a school disciplinary hearing. In this case, school employees engaged in particularly egregious misconduct that rendered the student unconscious after an altercation at school.

Allison, along with the help of fellow Troutman Pepper attorney Lauren, continues to represent the child through the state appeals process. 

The following trusted partners may help those in need with resources and information:

211

Call 211 or search the website to find food, help with housing bills, access childcare, and more. 

GeorgiaLegalAid.org

Check out this resource list for information on health, unemployment, emergency food help, and more. 

Georgia Department of Education

Find updates on coronavirus and schools and a link to the Georgia Department of Community Health’s Daily COVID-19 status report. 

Voices for Georgia’s Children

News and resources around COVID-19, including financial resources, food assistance, closures, and guidance on talking to children about the pandemic. 

Children's Healthcare of Atlanta

CHOA's resource page provides news, FAQs and resources, including relevant links to information from the CDC and Georgia Department of Public Health.

Georgia Appleseed fights to dismantle the school-to-prison pipeline, promotes behavioral health supports in schools, and advocates for healthy housing for Georgia's children. With nurturing schools, the supports they need, and a stable, healthy home, all of Georgia's children will thrive.

Join us by making a donation and/or becoming a pro bono partner.