As Atlantans of today, we share a core set of values with those Atlantans who paved the way to help the region become a symbol of strength, ingenuity and a “can do” spirit. While we come from diverse backgrounds and enjoy different beliefs, we share the same commitment to the region that those who preceded us held. It has helped Greater Atlanta to rise from the ashes of the Civil War, navigate the difficulties of the Civil Rights era, land the ‘96 Centennial Olympic Games, and create a homestead for some of the world’s most significant global brands and technology firms breaking the barriers to innovation each and every day.
And while we bring these ideas of “one” with us into the holiday season, this is the time of year when the flavor of our various communities transitions into a uniformity that forms a regional experience. We are reminded that the laughter-filled skating rinks, city centers filled with lights, Toys for Tots bins overflowing with gifts for our youngest citizens and the Salvation Army’s red kettles found throughout the region provide the most potent symbols of the year. We are one Greater Atlanta with shared values, dreams and aspirations.
These values and the vigor needed to continue to cultivate and nurture them are the foundation of the good life that so many of us live and enjoy daily as well as during the holidays—yet for so many children and their families in the 13 counties of Greater Atlanta, the hope of a good life has been derailed.
For many in our community, there will not be a holiday feast of turkey and trimmings because they will spend this season navigating the rough terrain toward the doors of homeless shelters filled to capacity. For others, the sweet treats of the season are simply tempting images on billboards along their transportation routes. And the seasonal jingles of happiness are truly holiday wishes for children trying to silence the distressing sounds that echo the everyday struggles of their neighborhood. Their lives are tough, but can evolve and be bright through the good will of committed neighbors who believe in fairness for all, and demonstrate the strength of the past.
So as we begin to enjoy the splendor of the season, let's ask the question, "How do we come together as a region with shared values to Give, Advocate and Volunteer to change the course for our neighbors who need us most?"
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