Ronkeisha Glynn—protégé with The Mentor’s Project Grant to The Mentor’s Project for the project, ”Sunday Afternoon: Portraits of Pendleton”

Ronkeisha, along with her mentor, Jessica Walden Griner, and friend and professional photographer Leah Yetter, spent an afternoon in Ronkeisha’s neighborhood, Pendleton Homes, snapping photographs of local residents. The compelling black and white photos were signed, numbered, professionally framed, and put on exhibit June 1st in downtown Macon during First Friday events. Sales of the photographs assisted The Mentor’s Project and its programs. This project benefited the community by giving a glimpse into the housing project world that many of us have never experienced, as well as demonstrating one of life’s most important lessons—the gift of giving.

Ronkeisha has hopes of becoming a professional photographer and a mentor to make a difference in others’ lives. Commenting on the art show, Ronkeisha said, ”I think our work shows that even in the housing projects, there is still beauty and art in the way life goes on. When I saw our photos for the first time, I felt like such an artist!“

Lynn and Clay Murphey and Family Grant to The Children’s Hospital to purchase books for the reading room

According to Lynn, “Our family was introduced to the exceptional medical care at The Children’s Hospital via the Taylor Mayhme Family. Taylor’s miraculous recovery from a life threatening accident provided an awesome testimony for the power of prayer supported by excellent medical practice. The experience touched every member of our family and we are moved to support TCH and its mission. We are thrilled to know that these funds will go to the purchase of books for TCH patients and their families to enjoy during a time of great stress in their lives.”

The Murphey Family spent a lot of time on this project and had some good discussion on the best way to use the $500 grant. The positive outcome of this tragedy was a testimony to the Murphey children and this grant allowed them to make a difference in the lives of TCH patients, as well as emphasize the importance of reading, which is also a significant part of their lives.

Anne and George Youmans Grant to Youth in Action of Central Georgia

Sharon Finney, a single mother of two, founded Youth in Action of Central Georgia out of concern for her own children’s environment. YIA focuses on after school activities including education workshops, mentoring, social development, field trips, and more. Under Sharon’s leadership, YIC is making a difference in the lives of young people in our community. George Youmans said, “I met Sharon a few years ago when she came to me with a request for some help with transportation needs of YIA. As you might expect, we receive many requests for all types of donations, but something about this one struck me as really trying to fill a very real need in our community. Once Sharon receives her degree, from Mercer University in Family Therapy, she will be even better prepared to work with the youth and families of our community.”