AmeriCorps Spotlight: Myles Griffin

We are so excited to introduce you to this month’s AmeriCorps Member Spotlight, Myles Griffin! Myles is an academic tutor at Young Middle School, whose journey goes beyond the surface of service. 

Myle’s joined AmeriCorps because he loves serving the community. He stated “the opportunity to help my local community is more than just a noble cause; it is a character-building experience that I wholeheartedly embrace. There's a unique feeling that comes with building bonds while working towards something greater than ourselves." 

Delving into the day-to-day experiences, Myles expressed a deep appreciation for his role in working with students. He hopes to better understand the metro school system and the confidence to act when help is needed. What he enjoys most is how much the students love chess and their interest in Esports. Witnessing their commitment to something as complex as these activities has been truly fascinating in an academic setting.  

“Over time, I’ve seen students undergo tremendous transformations, emerging from their shells and forming new friendships, all stemming from a shared interest.”

Outside of the AmeriCorps duties, Myles leads a dynamic life filled with various passions. For fun, he enjoys competing in tournaments, coding software, creating art, playing my saxophone, and spending time with friends. He envisions a future filled with entrepreneurial and philanthropic endeavors. In five years, he wants to either own a software business or running a non-profit organization.

Reflecting on what he loves most about Atlanta, Myles shares that this is his first time living in an area where the population is predominantly Black and feels empowered and inspired. He has learned a lot about himself, and feels like its genuinely made him a better person overall.

We appreciate Myle’s love for learning, ambition, and relentless effort to impact and transform the power of service. 

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Are you interested in learning more about a year of service through the Hands On Atlanta AmeriCorps program? Click here to see all the program benefits, what you’ll do and to start your application for the 2024-25 term.

Unveiling Unsung Heroes: AmeriCorps Week Celebrates Service Champions Making a Difference

Join us as we salute the unsung heroes of the 2024 edition of AmeriCorps Week! From March 10-16, we celebrated those who embody the true spirit of service - our AmeriCorps Members! It's not just a tribute; it's a rallying cry for others to join the movement and make a difference in communities nationwide. Let’s take a look back at some of the action this past week…

Monnica Taylor, an AmeriCorps member serving at Kindezi at Gideons, achieved a significant milestone by being inducted into CASA. CASA, or Court Appointed Special Advocates, are volunteers who advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children in the foster care system. Monnica's dedication to serving her community led her to this momentous achievement, marking a new chapter in her journey of making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children.

Meanwhile, Nefertiti Royale, another AmeriCorps member stationed at Brookview Elementary, teamed up with Communities in Schools to tackle the literacy pillar. She captivated Brookview Elementary students by reading her self-published book, "Dream with Diosa," while also providing them with space-themed keychains, bookmarks, and writing utensils. “Open a book, open a mind” is a motto that guides Nefertiti’s passion for tackling literacy challenges amongst children. Nefertiti's commitment to fostering a love for reading among children exemplifies the transformative power of education and imagination.

Deja Johnson, serving at Drew Charter's Senior Academy, demonstrated innovative ways to promote wellness and positivity within the AmeriCorps community. During Esprit de Corps, Deja led a plant therapy session, utilizing plant propagations to offer each member a tangible reminder of their purpose and motivation. Additionally, she organized a service project with her school's mentoring group to provide meals for the homeless, showcasing the ripple effect of service within the community.

These stories underscore the indispensable role that AmeriCorps members play in uplifting communities and empowering individuals. Through their dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to service, they embody the core values of AmeriCorps Week: Recognize, Promote, and Engage. AmeriCorps Week is not just a celebration of past achievements but a reminder of the ongoing efforts to build a brighter, more inclusive future for all. Let us salute these remarkable individuals who continue to push the boundaries of service and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.

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Are you interested in learning more about a year of service through the Hands On Atlanta AmeriCorps program? Click here to see all the program benefits, what you’ll do and to start your application for the 2024-25 term.

AmeriCorps Spotlight: Shawn Holmes

Recently, we sat down with Shawn Holmes, to learn more about her journey, passion for mentoring, and love for Atlanta. Shawn is originally from Philadelphia and currently serves as a Social Emotional Learning Coach at Asa Hilliard Elementary School.

Shawn's journey with AmeriCorps began as a simple quest for employment. However, what started as a job opportunity transformed into a genuine love for the organization, her school, and most importantly her students. Shawn emphasized the camaraderie within the Atlanta team, describing it as "dope" and truly hands-on. She acknowledged the personal growth she has experienced and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to use her God-given gifts in her role. "In this position, I know I’m using my GOD-Gifts! When I’ve had opportunities to interact with students, I take it personally. I want to understand as best I can what their needs are. I truly want to be that teacher/mentor they remember years from now. That lady who loved me, who listened attentively!"

For Shawn, the most rewarding aspect of working with students is providing them with a safe space to vent unapologetically. She values creating an environment where their feelings and experiences are heard loud and clear. "I LOVE that they have a place to vent unapologetically, a safe space where whatever they’re feeling/experiencing is heard loud and clear!"

Shawn's aspirations extend beyond her role, as she seeks a better sense of herself and a deeper understanding of the diverse backgrounds of her students. She aims to walk away from this experience with a broader perspective, free from judgment. "A better sense of myself… and to respect the fact that many of my students have different backgrounds. I can’t always relate. However, I’d like to walk away with a better grasp of the vast demographic of my people without judgment." In envisioning her future, Shawn paints a picture of a fly 60-year-old woman who fully knows herself, walks in her God-given purpose, and radiates happiness, health, prosperity, and well-roundedness.

“Being a fly 60 year old who finally knows who she is, walks in her GOD PURPOSE, head held high, happy, healthy, lite, prosperous, and well-rounded!”

Outside of her mentoring and tutoring duties, Shawn unleashes her creative side through drawing and art. She finds joy in admiring her completed artwork and cherishes moments spent with her incredible family, especially her babies and grandbabies.

““I LOVE to draw, color, be my CREATIVE SELF! And most of all, I enjoy chatting it up with my man JESUS and my amazing family, especially my babies and grandbabies!””

When asked what she loves about Atlanta, Shawn explains that it holds a special place in her heart and expresses her love for it enthusiastically. She appreciates the inspiring and kind people she has met in Atlanta, particularly within the community, and feels at home until "Jesus comes."

"I love that I feel I’m home until JESUS comes! I love the people I’ve met thus far—so inspiring, so kind. I’ve encountered people that want me to succeed as they are! People who will most definitely put you on to something amazing and positive, personally and professionally. I love seeing our folks prosper! Inspiration is all around me, and the BEST PART is that they all look like me!!

We appreciate Shawn's commitment, her lightning bolt personality, and her drive and dedication to making a difference.

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Are you interested in learning more about a year of service through the Hands On Atlanta AmeriCorps program? Click here to see all the program benefits, what you’ll do and to start your application for the 2023-24 term.