A nonprofit organization recognized Atlanta Public Schools for supporting at-risk students and working with it to help victims of domestic sex trafficking.

The Atlanta-based Wellspring Living gave the school district its 2019 HOPE Award. The nonprofit partners with APS to provide services to students at two non-traditional high schools, Phoenix Academy and Forrest Hill Academy.

In a written statement, Superintendent Meria Carstarphen said the programs have been “healing and restorative” for students.

Wellspring Living was founded in 2001. The organization assists victims of domestic sex trafficking with various services, including residential programs.

About the Author

Keep Reading

People hold candles and sing during a memorial and prayer vigil for Charlie Kirk at the John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts, Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025, in Washington. (Rod Lamkey, Jr./AP)

Credit: AP

Featured

In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason.Getz@ajc.com