ENDORSEMENTS
S. Truett Cathy
Founder & Chairman, Chick-fil-A, Inc.
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It is unfortunate that many children in today's society are a byproduct of a depleting
culture that surrounds them from every side. Both in their families and in their
day-to-day world, children are fighting a battle with little support from their
community. It hardly seems fair for the world to expect these young people to do
what they have never been trained or even encouraged to do. The ideals and efforts
of Communities in Transformation reflect the very nature of Chick-fil-A's corporate
purpose to have a positive influence on others. I wholeheartedly support and encourage
the undertaking of this program that is tailored to breaking a cycle that has been
in motion for generations. |
John W. White, III
President Lifeshape, Inc.
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It is imperative that we recognize our responsibility and all work together to reverse
the cultural erosion of our families and communities. Communities In Transformation
will significantly impact the lives of the emerging generation. Lifeshape is pleased
to partner with C.I.T. in mobilizing the local community leaders and volunteers
to unite and utilize their resources to transform their community. |
Eddie White
Vice Chairman, Clayton County Board of Education
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Amid an increasingly changing society and simultaneous demands for academic excellence
in the public schools, educators face extraordinary challenges. These challenges cause
teachers and administrators in our schools at every level to seek better ways of educating
the children under our watch. Tensions emerge when the needs and rights of learners seem
to conflict with the demands for accountability as mandated by the federal law called the
No Child Left Behind Act. The goals of this act are noble, however, adequate funding has
not been provided to meet the prescribed mandates. The goals and objectives of Communities
in Transformation are on target in meeting the needs of school systems by involving community
volunteers to giving tutorial support and encouragement to students in a positive after
school setting. This unique approach to enhance learning among at-risk children is worthy
of my support as a veteran classroom teacher and administrator at the school and district
levels. I sincerely encourage school districts to participate in the Communities in
Transformation program as a means to meet the needs of students growing up in a global society. |
Milton Wood
Pastor, Forest Park First Baptist
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I believe that this program is absolutely essential
for meeting the needs of communities like ours around the nation. |
Mildred McWhorter
Former Director - Houston Baptist Mission Centers
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Through my years working with inner city youth, I've seen the great need that the children in our communities
have. Students can always profit from caring individuals who are willing to help them with their schoolwork,
help them foster their talents, and be there to teach them about life management. That's why I believe the
mission of Communities in Transformation is vital to the overall well-being of our youth. Through the programs
at C.I.T., children can learn from role models, and then implement those positive characteristics into their own lives.
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Dwayne Hobbs
Chief of Police - Forest Park, GA
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Our policing initiatives reflect a balance of traditional techniques and community
policing methods, supporting our view that community problems are most successfully
addressed by developing partnerships with the community. The men and women of the
Forest Park Police Department have fully embraced this concept. Our officers over
the last year have worked with the members of the Lifeshape after-school program
to develop classes for children that create positive interactions and assist in
improving the community by reaching out to our at risk youth. |
Millie Steedley
Hendrix Drive Elementary School Counselor
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In today's complex society, many demands are placed on families. An increasing
number of our students face personal, social and family problems that hinder their
school performance. There is a real need for programs within the community to give
support and guidance to students. The community volunteers have provided positive
support and encouragement to the students who attend. Through their support, we
have seen many positive changes. Thanks for helping to motivate these young people! |
Tim Cummins
Whirlwind Missions, Executive Director
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Our communities are in trouble. With a 40% drop out rate in Georgia, we must
do something and we must do it now. Education is the key to turning these statistics
around. Our children need mentoring. After school programs are remarkably effective.
The individual attention the children receive make the difference. Nothing comes
for free. Either we support programs such as Communities in Transformation or we
end up paying for more jail space and increasing welfare. Invest in our kids! |
Rick Maurer
Clorox Plant Manager - Forest Park, GA
The Clorox Company awarded CIT a grant in April 2006 to help provide funds to continue programming, coaching,
monitoring and training volunteers for the Forest Park community after-school program, and to begin others like it.
Kelly Veal
Hendrix Drive Elementary School Principal
A School Says ‘Thanks’—Communities in Transformation director Toni Branyon (left) accepts a volunteer recognition
award from Principal Kelly Veal of Hendrix Drive Elementary School in Forest Park, Ga. Students from Hendrix Drive
attend a CIT after-school program conducted at a local church.
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