Gwinnett Community Outreach News: Spring 2025

Spring 2025

Hello Suleica,

As a former reader of our Community Outreach newsletter, we're thrilled to introduce you to our new identity: the Civic Engagement and Social Impact Division. This evolution reflects our expanded commitment to connecting, engaging, and empowering all Gwinnett residents through diverse civic opportunities and impactful community initiatives.

In our first of what will be quarterly editions, we're excited to catch you up on a vibrant first half of 2025 and share upcoming outreach opportunities. As Gwinnett County's civic engagement efforts expand, this newsletter will keep you informed about new programs and ways to connect with your community.

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Celebrate Gwinnett's vibrant AAPI community

Save the date! Gwinnett County will commemorate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month on Friday, May 30 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center. The County will recognize the rich variety of cultures and countries that make up our AAPI community, honoring the national theme of "Choosing Humanity."

Bring the whole family for a vibrant festival complete with music, food, dance, and community. Residents interested in joining this year’s AAPI Heritage Month celebration can register online.

Black History Month Heritage Night Celebration

Flashback to a historic evening

The 2025 Black History Month Heritage Night Celebration in February brought together more than 750 guests at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center for an evening of culture, history, and community.

Dr. Terrence Roberts, a member of the Little Rock Nine, served as the keynote speaker, sharing his story of resilience and change. Participants included members of the Gwinnett Youth Commission, Discovery High School Choir, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., and the Citizens Fire Academy Alumni Association.

This year's celebration recognized the national theme, "African Americans and Labor." Gwinnett showcased the connections between Black Labor and the rich traditions of Black Family Reunions at this lively celebration.

Browse photos from this historic night here.

You can enjoy Dr. Roberts' remarks and the dynamic performances from the evening by watching the video.

News Worth Sharing

Introducing Muriam Nafees, our new Civic Engagement and Social Impact director

In 2025, Gwinnett County's Community Outreach program was restructured into the Civic Engagement and Social Impact Division, aiming to enhance community connection and empowerment.

Muriam Nafees has been appointed as the new Civic Engagement and Social Impact director, bringing her extensive experience in community outreach and volunteer program development. Nafees previously transformed Volunteer Gwinnett into a nationally recognized program and has a proven track record of driving impactful community initiatives. Learn more about the division's new direction here.

Apply for Gwinnett 101 Citizens Academy

Ever wondered how county government really works? Gwinnett 101 Citizens Academy offers a nine-week program providing a first-hand look at Gwinnett County Government. Participants will interact with county leaders, tour facilities, and learn how local government functions.

This free program is an excellent opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the services and decision-making processes that impact our community. Applications are open now through the June 15 deadline. Learn more and apply at Gwinnett101.com today!

Engagement Opportunities

Attend Gwinnett Pride with the Visibility Club

Gwinnett thrives with Pride! In Gwinnett County, we celebrate Pride Month every June to affirm our support for the LGBTQ+ community. This year, we are partnering with the Gwinnett Visibility Club for Gwinnett Pride on Saturday, June 21 from noon to 6:00pm at Thrasher Park in Norcross. Learn more about this year’s celebration here.

Across the country, Pride Month is recognized every year to commemorate the Stonewall Uprising, a series of protests in 1969, which was a turning point for the Gay Liberation Movement.

Serve Gwinnett families in need

Struggling with food insecurity? Gwinnett, in partnership with the Atlanta Community Food Bank, is helping those in need through free drive-thru food distributions. The food is distributed on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.

The next events will be Tuesday, June 10 at Rock Springs Park in Lawrenceville and Tuesday, June 24 at Shorty Howell Park in Duluth, starting at 3:00pm with food available as supplies last. For more dates, please visit GwinnettCounty.com/FoodResources. To assist as a volunteer, visit VolunteerGwinnett.net.

Connect with us!