In November of 1999, Philip and Gail Ross were called into the inner city of Atlanta, Georgia to work with "at risk" children and single mothers. One year later, Philip and Gail purchased property one block off Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway (formerly Bankhead Highway), directly across from Ben Carson Middle School. The approximately two-acre home/facility is located in a high crime, low-income area known for its harsh streets.
Bright Futures Atlanta (BFA) was organized in the fall of 2002, in order for The Ross's to focus their time, talents and finances towards increasing already established relationships with students attending Ben Carson as well as others living in the community. Through love, mentoring, programs and activities, all Christian based, they are making an obvious difference in the lives of the participants.
Program Summary BFA programs are inter-connected, as our participants are included in all programs. BF believes that the more time spent in upbeat, encouraging environments, the greater the opportunity to instill positive social change. For this reason, all of the participants take part in year-round programming that keeps them "off the streets" and involved in constructive activities within their community and local schools. "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11
Mission To search out, assist and build long-term mentoring relationships with single mothers and adolescent youth of the inner city of Atlanta in order to break the cycle of poverty, violence, unemployment and low selfesteem, as well as its effects, through social change and education.
Vision Bright Futures Atlanta seeks to accomplish its mission by focusing on inner city adolescents as well as relationships with local schools and administrators to gain closer knowledge of their educational experience. In addition, close relationship with participants and their families are stressed in order to meet the individual needs of the family. All programs and activities are aimed at implementing social change through Christian based character building, mentoring and education.
Volunteer Opportunities School year - Wednesdays from 4:30 - 6:30 pm. Tutors, art instruction, recreation
Christmas and Spring Breaks - monitors for field trips, retreats and other activities.
Donation Opportunities Monthly support to cover operational expenses is biggest need. Per child support:
Summer $1,000 covers nine (9) weeks of Day Camp (weekly swimming, movies, recreation and field trips) and one (1) week of "Getaway" Camp to the mountains of Virginia
Sharpening Skills for Success after school program - $3,000 per year, $300 per month, $75 per week (Includes all supplies and daily snack and meal)
"Crunk" Christmas - $150 per child includes gifts for participant and siblings as well as full scale party with holiday meal and awesome decorations
Access to sporting, cultural, and seasonal events.
7 passenger mini van
Retreat facility
Safe Haven Center - How You Can Help:
Make an Individual Cash Donation:
Check with your company to see if they have a matching program (this could double or even triple your gift!)
Buy a commemorative brick
Lead a team to fund a part of the build out or to purchase equipment
Ranges
Refrigerators
Freezers
Tables
Chairs
Ovens
Dishwasher
Fryer
Make an in-kind donation of equipment.
Spread the word to family, friends, colleagues, and members of your church — tell them about the impact their contribution will have if they support City of Refuge.
