Associational Missionary, Rev. Aaron McCollough is shown presenting Sherri Brown, director of Circles of Troup County, a check for $3,000 from the Georgia Baptist Convention to offset the cost of meals prepared for participants during weekly Circles meetings.
Circles is a county-wide initiative that helps people living in generational poverty move out of poverty. It is a two-year process for participants who apply, are interviewed and accepted into Circles. After a three-month weekly class, participants become Circle Leaders and are matched with two to four community volunteers for 18 months. The volunteers, called Allies, make an 18-month commitment to help Circle Leaders reach their goals.
At each weekly meeting, volunteers provide free childcare and a free meal. This is necessary for many of the Circle Leaders who are single mothers with jobs. Volunteer opportunities include preparing weekly meals (cost of food can be reimbursed up to $100); childcare; serving on the planning committee called Guiding Coalition; participating in the Big View team that addresses systemic issues in poverty; and committing to be an Ally for 18 months.
There is a great need for our churches, organizations within churches, and individuals to volunteer to prepare meals or serve in some capacity within this effort.
For more information, you are encouraged to contact Sherri Brown at: sbrown@troupco.org or at 706-402-6423.
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