A Message from the MBEOC Family

This month, the Macon-Bibb Economic Opportunity Council family extends our heartfelt condolences to Chief Executive Officer Sarita Hill Fluellen and her family following the passing of her husband, Miller Sherman Fluellen, on July 20.

Mr. Fluellen was a valued member of the MBEOC family, and his loss is deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him. During times like these, we are reminded that Community Action is more than the programs we provide, it is the people who serve one another with compassion, dedication, and care.

We ask that you keep Mrs. Hill Fluellen, their children, grandchildren, extended family, friends, and our MBEOC staff in your thoughts as they remember and celebrate Mr. Fluellen's life.

As another school year begins, we remain committed to serving our community with the same spirit of compassion, hope, and service that has always defined the MBEOC family.

A New School Year Begins

While students may be the first to walk through our classroom doors, the work of creating a successful school year begins long before the first day of class.

Throughout the summer, MBEOC's Head Start and Early Head Start teachers, family advocates, bus drivers, nutrition staff, and support teams have been preparing classrooms, completing professional development, reviewing safety procedures, and working together to ensure every child begins the school year in a safe, welcoming, and engaging learning environment.

We're excited to welcome returning and new families and look forward to another year filled with learning, discovery, and growth.

Thank You, Georgia Community Action Association

Professional growth helps us better serve our community.

MBEOC staff recently joined Community Action professionals from across Georgia during the Georgia Community Action Association's annual Training and Technical Assistance Conference. The conference provided opportunities to learn new ideas, share successful programs, and strengthen the partnerships that make Community Action stronger statewide.

We appreciate Georgia Community Action Association for its continued investment in professional development and for supporting agencies as we work together to strengthen families and communities across Georgia.

Head Start Enrollment Continues

There's still time to enroll for the 2026–2027 Head Start and Early Head Start school year.

Head Start provides children with high-quality early childhood education while supporting families through health screenings, nutritious meals, developmental services, family engagement, and school readiness programs.

If you know a family with a young child, help us spread the word.

To learn more or begin the enrollment process, call 478-738-3240 or visit www.mbeoc.com.

Program Spotlight: Foster Grandparent Program

Sometimes the most meaningful lessons come from someone who simply takes the time to listen.

Through MBEOC's Foster Grandparent Program, adults age 55 and older serve as mentors, tutors, and caring role models for children in schools and childcare centers throughout Macon-Bibb and Monroe counties. These volunteers provide encouragement, build confidence, and create lasting relationships that help children succeed both inside and outside the classroom.

The program also offers older adults an opportunity to stay active, connected, and engaged while making a lasting difference in the lives of local children.

Interested in becoming a Foster Grandparent? Contact Latrice Hodges at 478-738-3240 to learn more about joining this rewarding program.

Back-to-School Tips for Families

A few simple routines can help children feel confident and ready to learn throughout the school year.

Try these easy tips:

• Create a consistent bedtime and morning routine.
• Read together for at least 15 minutes each day.
• Pack backpacks and lay out clothes the night before.
• Eat a healthy breakfast to help fuel learning.
• Ask your child about their day and celebrate even the smallest successes.

Small habits today help build lifelong learners tomorrow.

Did You Know?

Community Action agencies serve people at every stage of life, from infants in Early Head Start to older adults serving as Foster Grandparents, helping strengthen families and communities through education, volunteerism, and supportive services.

Looking Ahead

As classrooms fill with eager learners and families begin another school year, we are grateful for every teacher, volunteer, community partner, and supporter who helps make our mission possible.

Together, we are helping children learn, families thrive, and communities grow throughout Macon-Bibb and Monroe counties.

Thank you for being part of the MBEOC family.

Macon-Bibb County Economic Opportunity Council, Inc., is in the business of “Helping People, Changing Lives, and Building Families.” With help from our Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, local businesses, locally elected officials, and supporters, we tackle the war on poverty. It is our mission to help improve the quality of life for all families and individuals in Macon-Bibb and Monroe counties.

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