The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards Program

What are the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards?

The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards were created in 1995 to recognize students in middle level and high school grades who have made meaningful contributions to their communities through volunteer service. These prestigious awards, sponsored by Prudential Financial in partnership with the Nation Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), are presented annually on the local, state, and national level. 

How does the program work?

1. Young volunteers in grades 5-12 complete applications online at https://spirit.prudential.com/ or https://www.nassp.org/recognition/student-awards/prudential-spirit-of-community-awards?SSO=true by November 8, 2016, and then submit them to their school principals or to the head of one of these officially designated local organizations: a Girl Scout council, county 4-H organization, American Red Cross chapter, YMCA, or affiliate of HandsOn Network. Applicants and their parents or guardians also must complete the application form's signature page. 
2. Each participating school or organization reviews the applications of its students and selects one middle level Local Honoree for every 1,000 students in grades 5-8, and/or one high school Local Honoree for every 2,000 students in grades 9-12.
3. Principals or organization heads certify applications of their selected Local Honoree(s) online by November 18, 2016.
4. The top middle level and high school youth volunteer in each state and the District of Columbia are named State Honorees in February, and two to 10 runner-ups in each state are named Distinguished Finalists. 
5. Ten of State Honorees are named America's top 10 youth volunteers if the year by a distinguished national selection committee at a special ceremony in Washington, D.C., in May.

What do Honorees receive?

• Local Honorees receive Certificates of Achievement from their schools or organizations. Those who qualify will also receive the President's Volunteer Service Award if they have contributed the minimum number of volunteer hours.
• State Honorees receive $1000, engraved silver medallions, and an all-expense paid trip with a parent or guardian to Washington, D.C., in May for several days of recognition events, including award ceremonies, sightseeing tours and Congressional visits on Capitol Hill.
• Distinguished Finalists (runner-ups at the state level) receive engraved bronze medallions.
• Other top applicants at the state level receive Certificates of Excellence.
• National Honorees receive additional $5000 awards, engraved gold medallions, and crystal trophies for their schools or organizations. They also receive $5000 grants from The Prudential Foundation for nonprofit charitable organizations of their choice.

Who is eligible?

Any student who:

• is in grades 5-12 as of November 8, 2016, and is a legal resident of one of the 50 states of the United States or the District of Columbia.
• has engaged in a volunteer activity that occurred at least in part after September 1, 2015.
• completes an application and submits it to a school principal or the head of an officially designated local organization by November 8, 2016. 

Watch out for these dates:

September 2016: Online application form is available at https://spirit.prudential.com/ or https://www.nassp.org/recognition/student-awards/prudential-spirit-of-community-awards?SSO=true . Program information is mailed to all middle level and high schools and to officially designated local organizations. 

November 8, 2016: Deadline for students to complete application online, submit applications to a school principal or the head of an officially designated local organization, and send in signed signature page. 

November 9-18, 2016: Participating schools and organizations review applications and select Local Honorees, then nominate them for state-level judging by certifying their applications online. 

February 7, 2017: Judges name the top middle level and high school youth volunteer in every state and the District of Columbia as State Honorees.

May 6-9, 2017: 102 State Honorees attend national recognition events in Washington, D.C., where America's top 10 youth volunteers of the year are announced.

Applicants must submit completed applications to one of the following:

• A middle or high school
• A Girl Scout Council
• A county 4-H organization
• An American Red Cross chapter
• A YMCA
• An affiliate of HandsOn Network

freshman preview day!

Clayton State University - freshman Preview Day! 

Saturday, October 8, 2016 8:30 am - 1:00 pm

What is Freshman Preview?

Freshman Preview is an opportunity for students to get an in-depth look at all that Clayton State has to offer-from academic programs, to campus life, to student services, and much more. Our faculty, staff, and students look forward to meeting prospective students and their families to answer questions about navigating the world of college admission and college life.

Here's what your students can expect:

• Meet faculty, staff, current students and your future classmates
• Learn about the admissions and financial aid process
• Talk to faculty and advisers about degree programs
• Tour our Freshman Residence Hall (Laker Hall) 

This event promises to be both engaging and informative. The event is FREE, and a light breakfast and lunch is provided. To register, visit www.clayton.edu/admissions/events.

If you have additional admission questions or need further assistance, contact us at:

phone:678.466.4115

e-mail: csuinfo@clayton.edu

Thank you.

Office of recruitment & Admissions

Edgewater Hall

2000 Clayton State Blvd

Morrow, GA 30260

Angel Tree Program

Angel Tree Program 2018

Lawrenceville Corps - Gwinnett and Rockdale residents may register
*Call for appointment: (770) 724-1667
* Each family seeking assistance must apply in person in their country of residence and must bring the following items to register:

Each family seeking assistance must apply in person in their county of residence and must bring the following items to register:

*Valid photo I.D.

*Social Security card or proof of Tax I.D. Number for the parent/guardian.

 - Consulate cards (i.e, Matricula) may be used in lieu of social security cards.

 *Proof of Residence: Must bring current lease OR Current Utility bill OR Mail received from the government OR School District in August or September.

*Proof of need: Must bring ONE of the following in applicant's name.

- Section 8  or HUD lease documents

- Medicaid, Peachcare, or SNAP eligibility letter

-if you do not receive the above government assistance,  please bring proof of your monthly expenses and all income sources.

These standards MUST be met:

* Birth certificates and social security cards for all children being registered.

*Consulate cards (i.e., Matricula) may be used in lieu of social security cards.

* Official custody or guardianship papers if applicant is ot the biological parent.

*Clothing and shoe sizes for each child.

Saturday, Sept. 22 and Monday-Saturday, Sept. 24-29

Saturday 9 am - noon; 1 pm- 4 pm      Wednesday 9 am - noon

Monday 9 am - 7 pm        Thursday 9 am - noon; 1 pm- 4 pm

Tuesday 9 am - noon        Friday 9 am - 7 pm

Gwinnett and Rockdale residents may register at 3455 sugarloaf parkway, Lawrenceville, 30044

Please note*

Angel tree is open to children ages 12 and under and seniors over 62

* No children permitted at registration.

Camp MAGIK

A special camp for kids ages 7-18 who have lost a parent, sibling, or other close loved one(s)...

When: October 14-16
Where: Union Point, Georgia  (1 hr+ west of Downtown Atlanta)

     Camp MAGIK is pleased to announce its 2016 fall schedule of healing camps for children and teens. Camp MAGIK (Mainly About Grieving In Kids) serves children who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling, or other close family member within the past three years. Camp MAGIK will provide an opportunity for children and teens to meet, talk, and process their grief with professional grief counselors. Time will also be spent on play and fun as a way to help the children heal from the experience of death in the family. Activities may include archery, canoeing, a ropes course, nature hikes, treasure hunts, hay rides, campfires, story-telling, and a talent show. Each camp will be divided into two groups: one for ages 7-11 and one for ages 12-18.

     Camp MAGIK sessions are free of charge for the children who attend. Our Union Point camp is held in memory of Helen Agnes McDonald and is made possible thanks to a generous donation from her son Jim McDonald.

     Applications can be found on our website: http://www.campmagik.org/ (under the "join us" tab) and need to be postmarked and sent to Camp Magik, 3377 Ridgewood Road, GA 30327 or faxed to the office at 404-355-6631 by Wednesday, October 5, 2016.

Due to high demand for our camps, we cannot accept repeat campers.

Parents and guardians - There are 3 options:

• A retreat for parents/guardians which will be held at the same time as the children's camp (October 14-16). The retreat will be facilitated by mental health professionals and will provide an opportunity for adults to process their own grief and be with others who have also had a significant loss. Parents/Guardians will stay at a location close to, but separate from their children. Activities will include opportunities to relax, talk, provide, and receive support, and learn more about grief and loss in a beautiful, peaceful setting. The registration fee for the retreat is $25.00, which includes room, meals, and all activities. Space for this option is limited. Your children attend FREE.
• For parents/guardians with more limited time, a special workshop will be held on Sunday, October 16 from 9:00am to 3:00pm. This program will help you understand more about your child's grief and will suggest healthy ways for your whole family to manage and cope with your loss. Activities will include a classroom lecture,  a cook-out, and small group discussion. This option is free of charge. All events except the cook-out are adults only.
• Parents/guardians who do not have the time to participate in any of the two options above can still have their children attend camp. Drop your children off at the designated drop-off time on Friday and pick up at the designated pick-up time on Sunday. Again, children attend FREE OF CHARGE.

Free transportation from Atlanta, Duluth, Norcross, Cleveland, Gainesville, Athens, and Augusta 

     Specific Camp MAGIK details (maps, directions, what to bring, etc.) will be mailed to all accepted camp participants approximately two weeks before camp. If you have any questions, please call Dr. Rene Searles McClatchey at 404-790-0140 or email campmagik@gmail.com. We hope to see you at Camp MAGIK!

True Image

Understanding and Detecting Eating Disorders

Over 500,000 teens in the US struggle with an eating disorder. You can be a lifeline...

Talk to clinical psychologist, Dr. Genie Burnett, founder of Manna Treatment and Counseling, PC

• Overview various eating disorders 
• How to spot potential symptoms 
• Action steps to take with a student and their family when warning signs surface
• Knowledge of available resources
• Q and A session

Parents, teachers, counselors, pastors, and mentors welcome to this free event.

When: October 9,   6:30 - 8:00 p.m. 

Where: Grace Fellowship Church, 1400 Dogwood Rd., Snellville, GA 30078

Contact: 770-312-6122

College Fair

Free college fair

Saturday, October 22,2016

492 N. Marietta Parkway, Marietta, GA 30060

12 noon-3:00 p.m.

www.turnerchapelame.org (770) 422-6791

Alabama A&M University , Alabama state university, Albany state university, Auburn university, Benedict college, Brenau university, Central state University, Chattahoochee technical college, Clark Atlanta University, Dillard University, Duke university, Fisk University, Florida A&M University, Fort Valley State University, Georgia Highlands College, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, Grambling State University, Hampton University, Harvard University, Howard University, Jackson State University, Johnson University, Kennesaw State University, Lane College, Louisiana State University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Miama University Ohio, Morris Brown College, Point University, Purdue University, Savannah State University, Shorter University, South Georgia State College, Southern University, Stillman College, Syracuse University, Tennessee State University, The Art Institute of Atlanta, Tougaloo College, University of Alabama, University of Arkansas (Pine Bluff), University of Florida, University of Georgia, University of Kentucky, Vanderbilt University, VIP Dental Training Center, Virginia Union University, West Virginia State University, Wilberforce University, Winston-Salem State University, Xavier University (LA)

Seniors: Bring copies of your official transcript, SAT/ACT scores, and resume

The campus tour: A Diabetes Perspective

The Campus Tour: A diabetes perspective

Families impacted by diabetes have extra concerns when transitioning from high school to college-we want to address these concerns!

What to expect:

- A keynote speaker 

- Panels with current students, alumni, and parents

- Various campus resources

- Medical representatives

- A traditional campus tour (optional)

Don't want to go to UGA?

- We still invite you to attend!

- We will connect you with other chapters and resources of the college diabetes network!

We invite you and your family to attend on Sunday, November 4th from 11-4 pm at the University of Georgia. The event is free for families impacted by type 1, but we do accept donations!

Sign Up sheet:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/10MOG_D1lLl9YEHtmMrM31XJDCfoONUpyL9Ce_5HUDg0/viewform#start=openform

Have Questions?

Email: dawgs4diabetesuga@gmail.com

The campus tour: A Diabetes Perspective

The Campus Tour: A diabetes perspective

Families impacted by diabetes have extra concerns when transitioning from high school to college-we want to address these concerns!

What to expect:

- A keynote speaker 

- Panels with current students, alumni, and parents

- Various campus resources

- Medical representatives

- A traditional campus tour (optional)

Don't want to go to UGA?

- We still invite you to attend!

- We will connect you with other chapters and resources of the college diabetes network!

We invite you and your family to attend on Saturday, October 22nd from 12-5 pm at the University of Georgia. The event is free for families impacted by type 1, but we do accept donations!

Please RSVP by October 8th at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/10MOG_D1lLl9YEHtmMrM31XJDCfoONUpyL9Ce_5HUDg0/viewform#start=openform

*After this date, we will ask for a minimum of a $10 donation.

Have Questions?

Email: dawgs4diabetesuga@gmail.com

Help with FAFSA

Help with FAFSA

Get FREE help completing the FAFSA 

Free application for federal student aid

To register, call 678-225-5360

Chose one 

Tuesday December 6, 2016  6-8 pm

Monday, December 12, 2016 2-4 pm 

Tuesday, December 13, 2016 6-8 pm 

Cost $10 per class

Buford Human Services Center 

2755 Sawnee Avenue, 

Buford Georgia 30518 

678.225.5360 

First Generation Students

What's it like to be the first to finish high school or go to college...

Help overcome first in the family challenges. Explore the adjustment and obstacles first-generation students confront and how it can be helped. There are strategies for first generation students.

     When: September 26, 2016 at 2:00pm - 4:00pm 

OR

September 27, 2016 at 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Register Now: 678-902-5239 or email Edu_Coordinator@yahoo.com

Cost: Free

                                       

               

9th Annual Career Night

Attention all students and parents! Mark your calendars!

Collins Hill and Duluth High School 

invite you to participate in the 

9th Annual Career Night

When: Tuesday, October 11, 2016 from 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.

Location: Collins Hill High School

     This is an opportunity to learn about careers that are of interest to you. Area business will host informational booths giving you the opportunity to ask questions, get flyers, handouts, and business cards.

     Parents, do you own or work for a business that would be interested in taking part in this event? There's no cost, just a benefit to our students! Contact Mrs. Cown at tabatha_cown@gwinnett.k12.ga.us if interested or with questions.. 

Bridges

Amedisys Hospice offers bridges:

     A support group for people experiencing grief and loss. The process for grieving in response to a significant loss requires time, patience, courage, and a supportive environment. This support group may be like a bridge leading you to recovery from deep sorrow and anguish to a life wherein the loss is an important part of life but no longer the central feature of your life.

Meets on the fourth Thursday of the Month from 6:30pm to 8:00pm

Location:  Buford Human Services 2755 Sawnee Avenue, Buford, GA 

Contact:   678-225-5360 or please call Rev. Gabriella Cahaley: 678-442-7338

Boot Camp for Divorcing Women

When: Saturday September 17, 2016

     Are you separated, considering or currently in the process of divorce? This is a difficult and emotional time. You may have so many questions. We can help. Learn how to navigate this process from a legal, information gathering, financial, and emotional perspective and avoid some of the most common pitfalls of the divorce process.

What:      Boot Camp for Divorcing Women

When:     Saturday, September 17,  2016
Where:    Milton Library
Time:      10:00 am -  2:30 pm 
Other:     Please bring a brown bag lunch, snack, and a drink

Panel Speakers:

• Tommy L. Maddox - Attorney at Law specializing in divorce: 678-762-1632
• Debbie Dorman - Financial Advisor, National Financial Services: 770-377-4941
• Pam Griggs - Checkmate Investigations, Past-President, GA Assn of Private Investigators: 404-580-1240
• Erica Gregory - Director-Johns Creek and Alpharetta Counseling LMFT and child's play therapy: 404-834-2363

To register at no cost and for additional questions please call Debbie Dorman: 770-337-4941

Carolina Region

Carolina Region 

Greetings, selecting a college results in a four-year plus commitment, not to mention a very expensive one. Choosing a college without exploring all available options could be a costly mistake.

October 8-10, 2016

3 days

North Carolina A&T State university 

High Point University

Elon University

Duke University

North Carolina Central University

University Of North Carolina

Costs per person: $375

Prices included: Transportation, Hotel Accommodations, Campus Tour and Information Session, Personal Development and Leadership Seminars, Tour Escort, College Preparation Workbook, Museum ,Touring and Sightseeing, Break and Lunch.

Parent meetings 

September 29, 2016 

Morehouse college 

Walter E. Massey Leadership center

Westview Dr SW & West End Ave SW

4th floor at 7:30 pm

Book Today

Deposit $175 September 9, 2016

Balance $200 September 29, 2016

Mailing Address Po Box 335 Fayetteville, GA 30214

Or

www.CollegeCampusTours,net

To reserve a seat contact: Booking@CollegeCampusTours.net or 404-755-3535

Full Payment

Full Payment Option $375.00

*please note that a 3% credit card processing fee will be added*

Tour Itinerary 

October 8, 2016

12:30 am Load bus 

12:50 am Depart to Durham, NC 

Breakfast at McDonald's 

Tour Duke University

Lunch on Campus
Tour of North Carolina Central University
**attend FAMU vs NCCU football game**
Dinner

Check into Hotel
October 9, 2016
Breakfast at Hotel
Tour University of North Carolina
Lunch on Campus
Tour ELon University
Dinner

Check into Hotel
October 10, 2016
Breakfast at hotel
Tour North Carolina A&T state University
Lunch on Campus
Tour High Point University
1:00 pm depart to Atlanta, GA
7:00 pm arrive in Atlanta. GA

www.CollegeCampusTours.net

It is College Campus Tours goal that once a student completes our program they will be able to select the best college and major that leads to a fulfilling future.

Respectfully,

Shaun Lain 

program director

College Campus Tours 

(404)755-3535 Office

(404)393-9381 Fax

PO Box 355

Fayetteville, GA 30214

Camp I Believe

A FREE weekend camp for children and teens, ages 7-14, grieving the death of a loved one.

When: September 16-18, 2016

Where: Camp Gideon, 3545 Walden Lane Acworth, Georgia 30102

To learn more, please contact Caroline Bufalini at 678-937-1800 or via email caroline.bufalini@gentiva.com

What is Camp I Believe?

The focus on Camp I Believe is on healing. All the activities - indeed, the entire camp experience - takes place in a safe, supportive and caring environment. But as a camp for kids, it's also fun, with a variety of outdoor activities.

Time at Camp I Believe includes:

• healing group activities with other children of the same age
• outdoor activities including wall-climbing, field and lakefront activities 
• three to one camper-to-counselor ratio
• spending time with other children experiencing a similar loss

Many of the children who come to camp attend for the opportunity to have fun and to feel "normal" again. All activities, whether directly or indirectly, help campers to establish a sense of community and provide team-building opportunities; activities place an emphasis on personal growth through creative expression and through establishing positive relationships with peers.