In this special edition season one finale episode of the ARPA Highlight Series, we’re sitting down with Athens-Clarke County Mayor Kelly Girtz to reflect on the broader impact of ARPA funding across the community. From affordable housing and youth development to mental health and economic development, we’ll explore how these investments have shaped critical programs and empowered local organizations to meet the needs of Athens residents. Join us as Mayor Girtz shares his perspective on the lessons learned, the challenges overcome, and the vision for a more equitable and resilient future for Athens-Clarke County.

In this episode, we’re reflecting on the ARPA-funded impact the CNC Athens program had on the success of Destined Inc. and its mission to empower youth through mentorship, leadership development, and academic enrichment. This initiative is helping young people unlock their potential, build self-confidence, and chart a path toward purposeful futures. We’ll explore how the program is shaping tomorrow’s leaders in Athens, the unique challenges local youth face, and the lasting influence of intentional support and guidance in building brighter futures.

In this episode, we’re reflecting on the ARPA-funded impact the CNC Athens program had on the success of Encourage H.E.R. Academy and its mission to empower young women in the community. Through vital resources and mentorship, this initiative helps young women navigate academic, professional, and personal challenges. We’ll explore how the program is uplifting the next generation of leaders in Athens, the unique barriers these women face, and the transformative role of community support in creating pathways to success and self-sufficiency.

In this episode, we’re shining a light on the ARPA-funded work of First American Bank & Trust and their Down Payment Assistance Program. This initiative is helping first-time homebuyers overcome financial barriers to homeownership by providing critical support with down payments. We’ll explore how this program is opening doors for families across Athens, the challenges many face in affording a home, and the long-term impact this support is having on building generational wealth and fostering stable communities.

In this episode, we’re highlighting the ARPA-funded work of Chess & Community. This organization empowers youth by fostering critical thinking, leadership, and personal growth through chess and educational activities. We’ll explore how the organization addresses the challenges facing young people, the collaborative efforts with other organizations that amplify its reach, and the positive outcomes they’ve achieved. We'll also dive into how these partnerships are creating a lasting impact on the broader community.

In this episode, we’re shining a light on the ARPA-funded work of Historic Athens and their Equitable Home Preservation Initiative. This initiative is working to rehabilitate historic homes, preserve affordable housing, and prevent community displacement while honoring the cultural heritage of Athens neighborhoods. We’ll explore how this program is helping residents stay in their homes, the challenges faced in historic preservation, and the long-term impact on the community.

In this episode, we’re shining a spotlight on the ARPA-funded Delinquency Prevention Initiative by the Boys & Girls Club of Athens. This program focuses on guiding at-risk youth toward brighter futures through mentorship, education, and support. We'll delve into how the program addresses the root causes of delinquency, the strategic partnerships that amplify its impact, and the positive outcomes they’ve achieved and the broader impact on our community.

In this episode, we will be highlighting the ARPA-funded Eviction Prevention Program by The Ark and Family Promise. You'll hear about their crucial collaboration to provide homelessness prevention services, along with the positive outcomes they’ve achieved for individuals and families in our community.