Thriving Together Newsletter

Monthly Insights

June 2026

WHAT'S IN THIS ISSUE

Veterans Defend Democracy at Home

Stable and Safe Housing for Atlanta's Westside

The People's Game: Soccer and Human Rights

GA 100 Community Soccer Pitch Program

Veterans Defend Democracy at Home

In six years, more than 8,000 veterans and military family volunteers have joined Veterans for All Voters (VAV), a nonprofit dedicated to taking action and protecting democracy on the home front.

“Many veterans see a political system that rewards division and shuts everyday people out,” said VAV CEO Alberto Ramos. “VAV gives them a nonpartisan way to step back into the arena and help build a system that puts voters first.”

Andrew Newby, Marine veteran and leader of veteran volunteers with Veterans for All Voters.

VAV works on many fronts—from educating people about election reforms to supporting veterans running for office. And it’s already made a difference in communities across the country. “Every day I get inspired by how veterans are using their credibility to demand a better, fairer, and more results-oriented democracy,” said Ramos. “There’s nothing that gives me more hope.”

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Achieving Stable and Safe Housing for Atlanta's Westside

The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation recently awarded a grant to Atlanta Volunteer Lawyers Foundation (AVLF) to provide free legal and social services to low-income tenants and survivors of intimate partner abuse in two historic Westside neighborhoods, English Avenue and Vine City.

“The investment from the Blank Foundation reflects a shared belief that no one standing up for their rights should have to do it alone,” said Michael Lucas, executive director of AVLF. “With this support, we will deepen our presence in the communities that need us most—meeting families in their neighborhoods, in their schools and at the courthouse—to prevent the legal crises that lead to homelessness, family instability and cycles of poverty.”

AVLF is the largest provider of free legal services in Atlanta. It serves more than 5,000 individuals and families each year through its staff and a network of more than 500 volunteer attorneys, paralegals and law students.

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The People's Game: Soccer and Human Rights

To mark the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Atlanta, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights will open The People’s Game: Soccer and Human Rights, a landmark new exhibition exploring how fans, players and teams leverage soccer into a force for dignity, community and social change.

“As Atlanta prepares to welcome the world for FIFA World Cup 2026, we have an extraordinary opportunity to showcase not only our passion for soccer, but also the values that define our city,” said Arthur M. Blank. “The People’s Game highlights the power of sport to bring people together across cultures, create a sense of belonging and inspire positive change.”

Soccer, on its own, does not change the world. But the people who play it can—and do.

Opening June 20, the exhibit will be on view through June 2027.

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GA 100 Community Soccer Pitch Program

GA 100, part of the Atlanta United Community Fund and under the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, is on a mission to build 100 soccer pitches across Georgia, bringing the game to communities that need it most. This initiative goes beyond the pitch. It’s about creating safe spaces where communities come together, youth can dream bigger and everyone has access to soccer.

Applications are now open for communities interested in building a mini- or full-size pitch with grass, turf or futsal. If you know a group that could benefit, explore more about the program and application process.

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