Please send updates and additions to osbo1933@bellsouth.net

(Scroll down to last page for blood drives)

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Citizen Opportunities…see your elected/appointed officials in action:

Meeting of the Lowndes County Commissioners

Monday, December 13 , 5:30 PM

327 N. Ashley St - Commission Chambers, 2nd Floor

Link to website:

http://www.lowndescounty.com/content.asp?pid=23&id=219

Meeting of the Valdosta City Council
Thursday, December 8 at 5:30 pm
City Hall

Link to page with agenda: http://www.valdostacity.com/index.aspx?recordid=1071&page=193

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Education Career Day sponsored by VSU Career Services

Wednesday, November 16, 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM

James H. Rainwater Conference Center

Arrive with resumes in hand and questions in mind.

Contact Career Center for more information: 229-333-5942

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Community Thanksgiving Service

Sponsored by Valdosta Area Ministerial Association

Sunday, November 20, 4:00 PM

Berean Baptist Church, 806 East Adair Street

There will be a celebration of the completion and dedication of

Habitat for Humanity’s most recent building effort:

Building on Faith and Houses of Grace homes

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Valdosta Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

November 23, 2:00 PM

Valdosta City Hall Front Lawn

This year’s tree lighting ceremony will feature the children from the Moody Air Force Base Youth Programs, who will provide entertainment with the singing of some holiday favorites. The children have handcrafted “ornaments from around the world” to reflect our community’s diversity and will decorate the tree located inside the City Hall foyer.

Spouses of deployed military personnel are invited to attend as the mayor’s personal guests, and event participants may sign greeting cards that will be mailed to deployed military personnel in time for the Christmas holiday.

This event is free and open to the public. Residents of the Ashley House in Downtown Valdosta, Main Street merchants and patrons are all invited to help kick off this special time of year and the festivities that will take place in the heart of the city in the upcoming weeks. Light refreshments provided by the Valdosta Main Street office may be enjoyed following the tree lighting ceremony.

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Thanksgiving Day Food Giveaways

Day of Sharing, Caring and Giving

10:00 AM to 2:00 PM

St. John AME Church, 800 West Magnolia Street

Organizers can use more donations for this event, such as

non-perishable food, toiletries, clothing, etc.

Drop off locations are Mr. B’s, Looking Good Fashion and

Sons of Solomon Post, 410 West Adair

Volunteers also are needed: call 229-749-1916 for more information.

Fifth Annual Thanksgiving Day Celebration

11:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Sam’s BBQ and Catering, 414 East Hill Avenue

A Boston Butt sale will be held, with all the proceeds going to this celebration:

Whole Boston Butts, $25. Orders must be placed by Monday, November 21.

Pickup will be November 22 – 23, Sam’s BBQ.

Donations also appreciated.

For more information, call 229-247-0769.

Ninth Annual Thanksgiving Day Feast

11:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Teach Outreach Ministries, 606 South Lee Street

Sponsored by Teach Outreach Ministries, Delta Sigma Sorority and Mount Calvary Baptist Church,

the community is welcome to join in praise, worship, the word of God and a hot meal.

For those who are sick and shut-ins with no transportation, call 229-242-7286 for a delivered meal.

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Handel’s Messiah

Sunday, November 27, 4:00 PM

St. John Catholic Church Sanctuary, 800 Gornto Road.

Joint choirs of several churches will perform this piece.

A freewill offering will be collected for Lowndes County Habitat for Humanity

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Medicare Part D Workshop

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VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY

PUBLIC PLANETARIUM SHOWS

Take a tour of the far reaches of the night sky without leaving Valdosta.

This series of evening shows is open to all members of the community. The shows are designed for the general public and are suitable for ages five and up. If weather permits, the VSU Observatory will be open for public viewing of celestial objects after each show.

All shows begin at 8:00 pm and at 9:00 pm sharp and usually last 40 to 50 minutes. Seating is limited to 47 visitors for each show and the admission is on a "first-come-first-serve" basis.

The planetarium is located in Nevins Hall on the 3rd floor (room 3004). Limited public parking is available in front of Nevins Hall and at the Admissions Office on the opposite side of Patterson Street.

For more information about the upcoming shows see the schedule below. You may also contact the Department of Physics, Astronomy, and Geosciences at 229-333-5752 for further information.

2011-2012

SCHEDULE OF SHOWS

Date	Title

December 2nd	Origins of Life
February 3rd	Winter Stargazing
March 2nd	The Dawn of the Space Age
April 6th	Spring Stargazing

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CASA Volunteer

A CASA volunteer is a trained community volunteer who is appointed by a Judge to advocate for the best interests of an abused, neglected, or abandoned child in juvenile court proceedings. The CASA program covers the Alapaha Judicial Circuit, which includes Atkinson, Berrien, Cook, Clinch, and Lanier counties.

Anyone seeking additional information regarding the CASA program, or who is interested in enrolling as a volunteer advocate, please contact Elaine Grice or Evelyn Fox at 229-686-6576 or email elaine.douglas@berrien.k12.ga.us .

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THE HAHIRA/LOWNDES COUNTY COMMUNITY

OUTREACH DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

The Hahira/Lowndes County Community Outreach Development Corporation (HLCCODC mission is to provide programs to assist at risk families with substance abuse issues and prevent or delay initiation of any drug and over a life time create a drug free community. The HLCCODC is the lead organization of the South Georgia Regional Communities Coalition of Hahira.

The HLCCODC currently sponsors the following programs:

Teen Explosion is a youth leadership program. Sheila Warren is the Adult Advisor for this teen leadership program. Asset Builders is the curriculum used and focuses on teenagers planning activities for their peers to get the message out against drug abuse, violence, early sexual activities.

Cotillion: Contact: Estell Rose, (229) 630-3120; estellrose@bellsouth.net

The Cotillion’s purpose is to present our finest young ladies to society—academically, morally and socially; and to provide positive reinforcements to assist them as they embark upon womanhood. Junior and senior high school students are identified by school administrators from Lowndes, Valdosta, Brooks, Cook, Lanier, Echols, Berrien and surrounding counties with the following criteria:

· Must have “B” average

· Good moral character

· Not pregnant and have not been pregnant

· Involved in community

· Female born-debutantes/hostess; male born-escorts/hosts

· No alcohol or drugs

Escorts are juniors and seniors; sophomores are hosts and hostesses both with same criteria listed above.

Meetings are held every second Sunday. Contact: Estell Rose, (229) 630-3120; estellrose@bellsouth.net

VSU Continuing Ed offers classes on many subjects, some online. Following is a list of the courses related to non-profit management and grant writing:

      A to Z Grantwriting
      Writing Effective Grant Proposals
      Advanced Grant Proposal Writing
      Become a Grant Writing Consultant
      Get Grants!
      Creating Your Own Non-Profit
      Introduction to Nonprofit Management

Go to this link: http://www.valdosta.edu/conted/online/online_grant.shtml

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New Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPs) group with Christian focus in Hahira. Meets at Bethany Baptist Church, 5064 Bethany Road on the first Tuesday of every month for moms and the third Thursday as a playdate for the children. For more information, call Christy Smith, 910-728-2277.

Autism Support Group

For information on next meeting, contact Dorothy Dye, 229-561-3808

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Challenger League Sports For children ages 5-21 (some age exceptions) with any level of disability. Call about volunteer opportunities as a buddy to a participating child. Call Cheryl at the YMCA, 229-244-4646 or cmarshall@valdostaymca.com

LEARNING IN RETIREMENT

Become part of the Learning in Retirement program at Valdosta State University. Classes include a wide variety of subjects as watercolors, knitting and crocheting, line dancing, languages, beginning tennis, writing the memories of your life, yoga, antique samplers, gardening, mahjongg, things to know about Medicare, living with diabetes, ukulele, and many other topics.

LIR provides older adults with the opportunity to take part in college level course work on a non-credit basis (there are no tests and no grades). The curriculum is chosen, designed, and often led by the members, encouraging peer learning and active member participation. LIR capitalize on the strengths and experiences of older adults, empowering them to continue learning, expand their horizons, and enhance their personal development.

Pay the $45 membership and most classes are free.

There are classes to attend and opportunities to teach classes. If you have ideas for classes or are willing to teach a class for this series, call 229-245-6484 or go to website at www.valdosta.edu/conted .

Participants in Learning in Retirement are eligible to pay a small fee to have access to the VSU pool and exercise equipment at the VSU Student Recreation Center.

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Volunteers needed for Serenity Palliative & Hospice Care.

Contact Chaplain Yolanda L. Payne at

229-241-8338.

Grief Support Group

Hospice of South Georgia will be sponsoring an

Adult Bereavement Support Group

Call 1-800-HOSPICE, or 229-249-4100 for more information.

To order the 2010 Annie E. Casey Kids Count Factbook that has data on child and family wellbeing in every state for the last measured period of time, go to this website:

http://www.aecf.org/KnowledgeCenter/Publications.aspx?pubguid={C2FBD3FE-27EA-44EB-B5A6-0F45D713076E}

Need help with the price of prescriptions? Contact website below for assistance:

http://www.pparx.org

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Bainbridge Advocacy Individual Network, Inc.

316 West Shotwell Street Bainbridge 39817
Telephone 229-246-0150 Fax 229-246-1715

BAIN is a Center for Independent Living dedicated to promoting independence and improving the quality of life for individuals with disabilities in South Georgia.
BAIN, Inc is a non-profit, non-residential center serving eleven counties throughout southwest Georgia.

BAIN offers information and workshops on topics such as finances, money management skills, home modifications, personal attendant management and how to access community support systems.
BAIN will assist you on an individual, personalized basis.

BAIN also offers:
Transportation Voucher Program, Computer Recycling, Low Cost Eyeglass Program, Loan Closet, Ramps/Assistive Technology, Resource Library, Computer with Internet Access, Assistive Devices, Alternative formats: Large Print, Audio Cassette and Braille

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Need Healthcare, Housing or Case Management for veterans in this area?

Schedule for VA Social Worker Ayanna Sampson

Lake City / Valdosta Area Case Management

Ayanna Sampson, LMSW 1-800-308-8387 Ext 3416

Wednesdays:

-Catholic Charities - 10:30 AM – NOON

258 Burke Ave, Lake City, FL

(386) 754-9180

2nd and 4th Wednesdays:

-FL Crown Workforce (Check-in w/Vet Rep) - 1PM – 2:30PM

1387 West US HWY 90, Suite 170, Lake City, FL

(386) 755-9026

1st and 3rd Thursdays:

-GA Dept of Labor (Check-in w/ Vet Rep) - 10AM-11AM

221 South Ashley St., Valdosta, GA

(229) 333-5211

-New Horizon Day Ctr (Check w/ Outreach) - NOON-1:30PM

714 Charlton St., Valdosta, GA

(229) 242-5267

1st and 3rd Wednesdays:

Christian Service Center – 10:30AM – NOON

441 NW Washington St., Lake City, FL

(386) 755-1770

VA RESOURCE PAGE:

http://www.northflorida.va.gov/NORTHFLORIDA/services/homeless/

Homeless Veteran in need of help?
Call 1-877-4AID VET (1-877-424-3838)

NEW VA SERVICE:

The National Caregiver Support Line –

1-855-260-3274 -- will serve as the primary resource and referral center to assist caregivers, Veterans and others seeking caregiver information. It will be open Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 11 PM, Eastern time; and Saturday, 10:30 AM to 6 PM, Eastern time. Licensed VA social workers and health technicians will staff the support line.

The support line will provide information regarding new caregiver benefits, referrals to local caregiver support coordinators as well as emotional support to those concerned with their ability to provide care to loved ones who are Veterans.

VA also features a Web page, http://www.caregiver.va.gov/, with general information on other caregiver support programs available through VA and the community.

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Thomasville, Georgia Activities include concerts on Fridays and Sundays, tours, theater performances, costume parties, walks for charity, and a Native American festival.

Website: http://www.thomasvillega.com/?m=201010&cat=2

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Help Deliver Meals for Homebound People

The Break Bread Together Ministry of First Presbyterian is in need of volunteers who can help sort and/or deliver meals on the weekdays (Monday-Friday, except holidays). Presently, we have a waiting list of those in need of meals, but are unable to handle the requests without additional volunteers.

If you, your church group, or civic organization is interested in assisting with this important ministry to the Valdosta community, please contact Susan Sheridan, Break Bread Coordinator, at 229-249-0779.

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Partnership for Health/Free Clinic for Uninsured Workers on Woodrow Wilson Drive is available to employed persons over 18.

It needs volunteers to assist in administrative, nursing and other areas.

For training times contact Libby Smith, RN at 229-245-0020

libby.smith@lcpfh.org or info@lcpfh.org

Website: http://www.lcpfh.org

Mobility and Self Sufficiency for People, Contact:

GEORGIA TOOLS FOR LIFE

Georgia Department of Labor/VR Tools for Life Program
Vocational Rehabilitation Program, Atlanta

Phone: (800) 497-8665
TTY: (404) 657-3085

E-mail: toolsforlife@mindspring.com

Homepage: http://www.gatfl.org

Page listing funding resources: http://www.gatfl.org/Resources.aspx

Need a ramp for an older person?

Call this number to be screened for help.

Toll-Free: 1-888-73-AGING (1-888-732-4464)

Southern Georgia Regional Commission - Area Agency on Aging

Turner Center for the Arts

Gallery Open

Free and open to the public!

CLASSES

Yoga, Wednesday nights, 6 PM, Roberta George, Instructor, Free,

Painting Class, Thursdays: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, Fay Hyatt, Instructor:

Pottery Class, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM,

Walter Hobbs, Instructor

Movie Night, third Tuesday of every month from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM, Free

The Turner Center Gift Shop is open during Center hours:

Tuesday-Thursday 10-6; Friday-Saturday 10-4.

http://www.turnercenter.org

1 AAA LOGO (transparent).png

Valdosta Sunrise Rotary –

Member of Rotary International

No obligation visit any Thursday except holidays.

Weekly community business and education speakers.

Two annual major charity fundraisers.

Meetings and breakfast at Valdosta Country Club at 7:30-8:30 AM.

HELP US STAMP OUT POLIO IN THE WORLD.

For more information contact office@georgiachild.org or 404-572-6170.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Jacobs’ Ladder Therapeutic Riding Center in Hahira needs volunteers to help with special needs riders.

Please call Leslie at (229) 794-1188.

See the website for a lot more information:

http://www.jacobsladderriding.com

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Harvard University Announcement

No tuition and no student loans

Harvard University announced recently that from now on undergraduate students from low-income families will pay no tuition.

If you know of a family earning less than $60,000 a year with an honor student graduating from high school soon, Harvard University wants to pay the tuition. The prestigious university recently announced that from now on undergraduate students from low-income families can go to Harvard for free... no tuition and no student loans!

To find out more about Harvard offering free tuition for families making less than $60,000 a year, visit Harvard's financial aid website at: http://www.fao.fas.harvard.edu/ or call the school's financial aid office at (617) 495-1581 or (617) 495-1581.

OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

"Be a Foster Parent –

A Challenging and Personally Rewarding Experience"

Choices for Life of GA, LLC

2200 North Patterson Street

Valdosta

Phone 229-244-1707; Fax 229-244-1779

pbrewer@cflfostercare.com

Choices for Life of Georgia is a specialized foster care program that provides in-home treatment for children and youth with multiple psychological, social and emotional needs. The children can accept and respond to relationships within a family but their special needs require more intensive or therapeutic service than are found in traditional foster care. Please contact us for more information if you would like to be part of our professional team touching the lives of children and families.

Choices for Life of GA, LLC also provides outpatient behavioral health services as a CORE Provider focusing on children and adolescents. Services include: individual therapy, family therapy, group therapy, and community support individual services, on-site nursing services & psychiatric services.

Referrals may be made by phone or email address above.

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VA's Suicide Prevention Hotline

1-800-273-TALK (8255)

Hotline is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week by trained mental health professionals prepared to deal with immediate crises. It also offers an anonymous online chat feature available at www.suicidepreventionhotline.org <http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org>

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Georgia’s Community Care Services Program (CCSP)

If someone you care for is eligible for nursing home placement but would like to stay in his or her own home, you may want to consider the benefits of the Community Care Services Program (CCSP). CCSP is a Medicaid waiver program that serves as an alternative to nursing home placement. The program provides home and community-based services to people who are elderly and/or functionally impaired or disabled. By providing these services, CCSP helps recipients remain in their own homes, the homes of caregivers, or in other community settings as long as possible.

To explore your eligibility or the eligibility of a loved one, contact the Southern Georgia Area Agency on Aging (AAA) Gateway to Community Resources at 912-287-5888 or toll-free at 1-888-732-4464.

Are you a caregiver? See the state resource page:

http://ada.georgia.gov/00/channel_title/0,2094,77499621_146139675,00.html

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Atlanta Legal Aid has services for seniors all over the state.

http://www.atlantalegalaid.org/departments.htm

Grandparent / Relative Caregiver Project Toll-free: 888-257-9519

Are you raising grandchildren or other relatives?

This project was created in response to the growing number of grandparents and other relatives who were raising children in the place of absent or addicted parents. Its goals are to stabilize the legal relationship between the caregiver and children through adoption or custody and to maximize the financial and medical resources available to care for the children. The project has been adopted by Kilpatrick Stockton, a private Atlanta law firm, and has trained more than 220 volunteer lawyers to take cases; call 404- 524-5811.

Georgia Senior Legal Hotline Toll-free: 888-257-9519

Begun in 1998, the hotline is a cooperative project among Atlanta Legal Aid Society, the Georgia Division of Aging Services, the State Bar Pro Bono Project and the Atlanta Bar Association. It offers legal advice, brief services, self-help materials and referrals to seniors throughout the state, handling more than 4200 calls a year. This project serves seniors living anywhere in Georgia .

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National Do Not Call Registry

https://www.donotcall.gov

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Homeless prevention and rapid re-housing (stimulus ARRA dollars) funds are now available for 91 counties in Georgia through the Salvation Army state level toll free number 1-866-387-2657.

Persons needing assistance may call for pre-screening and information in all counties.

For a printable flier, go to: http://www.dca.ga.gov/housing/specialneeds/programs/documents/HPRPSalvationArmyReferrals20100209_000.pdf

According to the information on the Salvation Army state website: “Through the Homeless Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program (HPRP), recipients in 91 out of 159 Georgia counties must meet criteria established by the grant to qualify for rent and utility assistance.”

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DHR REGION XI WEB PAGES- resources across the 18 counties of Region XI

http://members.surfsouth.com/~dfcs/AREA.html

Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Georgia is accepting volunteer and client applications for both of its One-to-One mentoring programs!

Big Sisters are waiting for little girls in the Valdosta area (Ages 5 to 14 who lack two involved parents/guardians in the home). Big Brothers are needed as well !

If you would like to be a member of the Valdosta board, call the number below.

To be referred, please contact Enrollment and Matching Manager Melinee Calhoun, 866-614-4215, http://www.southgabbbs.org

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Valdosta Multiple Sclerosis Support Group

If your group is interested in helping to take pledges for a run or promote a talent show please come out and support your local MS Support Group at the monthly meeting.

Please send an email to us at: valdostamssupportgroup@gmail.com or check out our new website www.valmssgroup.com

Join the advocates for mental health services in Georgia –

2011 has become increasingly challenging for persons needing services for mental illnesses and addictive diseases, and for people with mental retardation and related developmental disabilities in the State of Georgia. DBHDD Planning Board advocates are currently becoming very active with our Community Service Boards, Georgia Alliance on Mental Illness, law enforcement, county commissioners, the courts, consumers and other stakeholders to speak with one voice for the survival and improvement of access to DBHDD information and services in our region.

Interested persons may contact Linda Floyd at lfloyd@valdosta.edu .

FamilyWorks

The Moore Street Clinic has moved and has a new name! We are now FamilyWorks but we are still the university-based brief therapy center for the Marriage and Family Therapy graduate program, and we are still providing state-of-the-art therapeutic help to families and individuals all over Valdosta, the VSU campus, and surrounding communities, including south Georgia and north Florida.

Who Goes to FamilyWorks? Any individual person, married or unmarried couples, children, elderly, couples who are or are not living together, families of all varieties, regardless of legal status, roommates, and LGBT persons—all are welcome at FamilyWorks. Family therapy, sometimes called systems therapy or relational therapy, is a particular way of thinking that helps people make the changes that they want to make. Even though the word, "family" suggests that family therapists work only with whole families, this is not the case. Family therapists work with individuals, couples, groups, and families. Family therapy has been found to be helpful to people with many different kinds of problems, including:

anger management
individual depression
divorce and separation
sexual problems
parenting problems
difficulty with communication
relationship problems
domestic violence
grief and loss
pre-marital concerns
child behavior problems

We offer our services to all people who seek them, regardless of age, gender, race, political or religious affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, education, economic status, disability, or ethnic background.

How Much Do We Have to Pay? We charge for each session according to a sliding scale that is based on family size and income, so fees can begin at $0. But here is the good news: No one is ever denied services because they cannot pay. When you call for the first appointment, someone will talk with you about your fee, so that you will know what it is prior to your first meeting with your therapist. If your circumstances are such that you can't pay anything at all, just let us know. Services are free to Valdosta State University students, faculty and employees.

To schedule an appointment, call (229) 219-1281 Monday through Friday between 9:00 am and 11:00 am. If you cannot call during these times, call anytime and leave a message. Let us know the best time to reach you and an intake coordinator will call you back.

FamilyWorks - 903 North Patterson Street, Valdosta, 31698

FamilyWorks is housed in the one-story part of the Continuing Ed Building that is on the corner of Patterson and Gordon Streets (directly across the street from the Crescent House). You can reach the building by turning in off of either Patterson or Gordon Streets. If you come in off Patterson Street, drive around to the back of the parking lot. We are tucked in the corner of the one-story part of the L-shaped building.

When you arrive, poke your nose into the Intake Room and ask for a parking permit. The VSU Police monitor this lot frequently and without a parking permit, you will likely get a parking ticket. If you have a current VSU student, staff, or faculty parking sticker, you are good to go.

South Georgia Regional Libraries Opportunities

South Georgia Regional Library

300 Woodrow Wilson Drive

presents

“Meet The Author”

December 3 Morris Smith “Big Iris”

January 7 Roberta George “Baptizing The Cat”

February 4 Ron Hamby “C’est La Guerre”

The program will take place the first Saturday of every month, except in September (because of Labor Day, we will meet on September 10th) at 2:00 pm. Tea and cookies will be served.

For information, contact Patrick Spurlock, Community Relations Coordinator,

229-333-0086, ext 216

At the library there are computer classes, children’s reading times, beginning Spanish, vampire book club, genealogy, teen book club, game night, and the bookfellows club. http://www.sgrl.org/pages/events.html

Backdoor Bookstore

11:00am – 2:00pm

Main Library

Purchase gently used books from the Friends of the Library Back Door Bookstore. All proceeds from your purchases are used to buy new books for the library. The Backdoor Bookstore is located in the rear of the Main Library on 300 Woodrow Wilson Drive in Valdosta.

Visit our website www.sgrl.org to learn how to join, find information about

local and regional elected officials, library programs and the hours of all branches. Start exploring the endless possibilities at your library today! Call 229-333-0086 for more information.

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Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program

This program is available in several surrounding counties and it is free to all persons earning under $49,000 a year.

Volunteer to become a tax preparer in this program.

Available to persons who need to file taxes for previous years. This program serves low income persons in several counties.

To find a location near you, contact Jataryia Thomas, Executive Director, C.A.$.H. Prosperity Campaign at:

229-234-2364 or cashpcampaign@gmail.com

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Georgia Legislators need your input.

To ensure that your issues are addressed, stay in touch with your legislators. Write a letter, tell a story of your personal experience related to needed

legislation, offer your professional information, or provide accurate data on issues while they are home.

To find yours, go to:

GEORGIA LEGISLATIVE HOME PAGE

http://www.legis.state.ga.us

Lowndes area legislators:

Senator Tim Golden 110 Beacon Hill Valdosta , GA 31602

Lowndes, Brooks, parts of Cook and Thomas

229-293-0202 404-656-7580

Serves Brooks, Cook (Pt.), Lowndes, Thomas (Pt.)

tim.golden@senate.ga.gov

Rep. Jason Shaw Box 245 Lakeland , GA 31635

Berrien, Clinch, Lanier and Lowndes

229-482-3505 404-656-7859

jay.shaw@house.ga.gov

Rep. Ellis Black 5900 Jumping Gully Rd. Valdosta , GA 31601

Brooks, Echols, Lowndes and Thomas

229-559-1592 404-656-0287

blackellis@bellsouth.net

Rep. Amy Carter Box 1535 Valdosta , GA 31603

Valdosta and Remerton

229-245-2733 404-656-0325

amy.carter@house.ga.gov

To keep up with this year’s legislation go to: http://web.me.com/gcdd/GCDD/Home.html

To voice your opinion on Federal legislation or to get assistance with issues with Federal benefits, contact one of our two Georgia Senators or our Congressman:

Senator Saxby Chambliss

South Georgia Office:
419-A South Main Street P.O. Box 3217 Moultrie , GA 31776
Toll free at 800-234-4208 Main : 229-985-2112 Fax: 229-985-2123

To send an email, go to his website: http://chambliss.senate.gov/

Senator Johnny Isakson

One Overton Park , Suite 970
3625 Cumberland Boulevard
Atlanta , GA 30339
770-661-0999 Fax: 770- 661-0768

To send an email, go to his website: http://isakson.senate.gov/contact.cfm

Congressman Jack Kingston

Valdosta Federal Building
401 N. Patterson St.
Second Floor, Room 215
Phone: (229) 247-9188
Fax: (229) 247-9189

To send an email, go to his website: http://kingston.house.gov/Contact

Childcare Resource and Referral

1-877-ALL-GA-KIDS

For help with finding special needs childcare, resources for parents/teachers, inclusion, staff development and presentations. More information contact Sharon Pilkinton at sharon.pilkinton@darton.edu.

Children’s Medical Services (CMS)

This is a state funded program that provides medical care for disabling conditions or chronic diseases in children from birth to the age 21. The staff of three RN’s work actively with primary care physicians to coordinate specialty care for the child. Services through CMS may include family education, social services and case management. They also hold clinics for children in Cardiology, Orthopedic, Hematology, Asthma and telemedicine clinics in Genetics, Nephrology and Pulmonary.

They have an Asthma Educator, Penny Beasley, RN. Enrolled clients have an asthma action plan which includes education, equipment, bed covers and camp for kids 6-12 years old. There is a camp in Tifton and one in Valdosta.

Anyone may make a basic referral to CMS, however to be seen by a specialist the referral should come from the client’s primary care physician.

For more information call 229-245-4310 or 1-800-848-5728

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American Cancer Society
1-800-227-2345
www.cancer.org

There are many resources through these avenues and the 800 # is "live" 365 days a year, 24 hours a day!!

The American Cancer Society in this area is looking for volunteers to help with the Road To Recovery and Reach To Recovery Programs.

A Reach To Recovery volunteer needs to have completed their treatment for breast cancer in order to be trained as a Reach To Recovery volunteer.

Reach to Recovery for women in this area who have had breast cancer, a program designed to help them cope with their cancer experience and assists with transportation to and from treatment.

If you are interested in volunteering for either of these programs, please contact Ashley Braswell at 229-834-0709 or 1-800-227-2345.

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Hospice of South Georgia Sponsors Grief Support Groups for Adults, Teens and Children

All groups are offered free of charge as a community service of Hospice of South Georgia. These support groups are for anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one and would like to learn healthy ways to deal with their grief.

To register for an upcoming group, call 229-249-4100.

Groups meet throughout the year at the Hospice of South Georgia Administration Building, 2263 Pineview Drive, Valdosta.

Pearlman Cancer Center Support Groups

Holding Hand Support Group- General Support Group

Everyone is Welcome

Meets the Third Monday each month, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Pearlman Cancer Center Conference Room

209 Pendleton Dr. Valdosta

Contact 229-259-4638

No registration required

AND

Best Buddies Breast Cancer Support Group

Meets every 4th Tuesday each month,

6:00 PM - 7:30 PM January-October

(No meetings in November/December)

Pearlman Cancer Center Conference Room

209 Pendleton Dr. Valdosta

Contact 229-259-4638

No registration required

GeorgiaHousingSearch.org - A Ready Resource During Critical Times. Tornadoes, storms, you name it…when disaster strikes, everyone needs help. In many cases, finding a place to live is a top priority. No need to worry or panic as GeorgiaHousingSearch.org offers a FREE, easy-to-use and available resource to help citizens quickly find affordable housing options in their community.

On the site – www.GeorgiaHousingSearch.org -- citizens can search for rental properties statewide. Property postings are detailed, current, and updated bi-weekly. Property managers and independent landlords can post listings for free and reach thousands of potential renters.

The website is bilingual (English and Spanish) and has a toll-free number – 877-428-8844 - available to assist potential renters or property owners and managers. In addition, the site’s unique Special Needs Housing Search feature has assisted Georgia caseworkers locate housing for hundreds of traditionally hard-to-place families and individuals.

For more information, please contact Sheila Barry at (404) 679-4855 or sbarry@dca.state.ga.us.

Repeat Boutique Thrift Store

…is open to Drop (things you don’t need) and Shop (for things you do). Hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10-5 and Saturday from 9-3. Closed Wednesday. It’s located at 900 North Oak Street (corner of Oak and Gordon). For sale are donated clothing (for men, women, and children), accessories, toys, books, small appliances, house wares, jewelry, decorative items, furniture, and much more! Donations to the store are tax deductible. All sales benefit The Pregnancy Support Clinic of Valdosta. Proceeds are used to help further the Christ-centered mission of advancing the sanctity of human life and sexual purity empowering individuals to make life-affirming choices. For more information, call the store manager, Robin DeRocco at 229-333-0063. Website for clients: www.OptionsNow.org.

Silent Ministries is offering a class called "Felons- A Special Class of Domestic Violence Victims."

For free assistance for domestic violence victims with public assistance forms and appeals, contact jharnage7@aol.com

Read The Beating Death of Aunt Lilly Mae Thornton as Told by Her Niece and Silent Ministries' founder Carolyn Thornton Harnage at http://domesticviolenceaftercare.webs.com.

Silent Ministries has an ample supply of quality clothing, shoes, and jackets for victims needing help. Silent Ministries is asking for donations of used and broken small appliances to help elderly people who cannot replace such things as toasters and heaters.

Will pick up. 229-559-5648.

!! Silent Ministries is seeking donations of household goods, bedding and toys. The household goods and bedding are to replenish supplies and the toys are for the annual Santa On Wheels.

Good used clothing available now.

Silent Ministries accepts donations of all types and they pick up items such as housewares, blankets, glassware, cooking, small appliances, vehicles, boats, motors, camper parts and camper appliances. Donations and sales benefit the Silent Ministries missions to help people in the community and around the area with many personal issues.

Silent Ministries can assist you with an employment interview wardrobe in limited sizes. We also can assist with letters of reference and interview coaching.

Contact Jim Harnage at 229-300-4882, or jharnage7@aol.com. The website is http://jimharnage.ning.com. We are located at 121 Ben Daniels Road, Statenville, Ga.

Silent Ministries Recovery Outreach announces training for Angels of Mercy, Domestic Violence Advocacy, each Wednesday in February at the usual location.

Subjects will be:

What To Do As A Victim,

Safety Plans For Your Home,

Self-Defense,

Fitness and Nutrition led by a licensed expert, and

After Care Services.

Contact jharnage7@aol.com for more information.

SURVIVOR GROUPS AT THE HAVEN

The Haven will be conducting support groups for survivors of sexual assault or child sexual abuse. There will also be a men’s group for men who have experienced sexual assault.

These groups are for adult women and men over 17 years of age. It is intended for those who are ready to move from being victims to being survivors. Those individuals who are interested in one of these groups should plan to attend the complete 12 week process. Once the groups are formed, the day will be Thursdays and the time will be after work 5:30 or 6:30 PM.

To join, contact Sheila Rowell, therapist@valdostahaven.org, 229-244-9056 to register. Participants must complete an initial screening. Groups are free, confidential, and facilitated by trained professionals.

It is not necessary to be a current client of The Haven to participate.

Easter Seals Valdosta Office

Family support/respite care available for

families whose children have developmental disabilities

610 North Patterson Street, Suite A, Valdosta

229-247-6912, toll free 866-875-4670, or fax 229-247-8549.

December Smith is the Easter Seals coordinator for Valdosta, if you need forms and have any questions regarding the application process for help with family respite care and other assistance. Please remember that the money from Easter Seals is based on the child and not family income. The family support/respite program covers Lowndes, Brooks, Lanier, Cook, Berrien, Tift, Irwin, Turner, Ben Hill, and Wilcox Counties.

Champions for Children Program

The Champions for Children Program is designed to assist primarily children and families

who do not meet the eligibility requirements for TEFRA/Katie Beckett Medicaid Program

http://www.championsforchildren.org

Have applied for Katie Beckett and received a level of care denial
Age 21 and under
Live at home
Have a physical, cognitive, developmental or medical disability

Current Medicaid recipients are not eligible for this program

Megan’s House, respite facility for families with children with special needs is now open in Valdosta and is in need of donations of every kind of household goods. Contact December Smith dsmith@swga-easterseals.org

for more information.

Newcomer Welcome Service and Community Guide

For decades, The Greeting Service has welcomed Valdosta newcomers with traditional southern hospitality–a personal home visit and a folder brimming with information about schools, churches, cultural opportunities, and a bag chock full of coupons and goodies.

The Greeting Service has expanded its borders to include Adel, Hahira, Lakeland Lake Park , Moody Air Force Base, Nashville , Quitman, and Tifton and now publishes an annual community resource guide acquainting newcomers with relocation information including job opportunities and housing.

We look forward to sharing all the fun and exciting things that Valdosta and the surrounding communities have to offer and hope you enjoy discovering a new place to call home.

If you are new to the area, be sure to call 229-245-8383 for your Welcome Packet.

http://www.southgeorgianewcomers.com

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Greenleaf Speaks!

Need a free public speaker for your group or event? Therapists at Greenleaf Outpatient Program can speak to your group about an array of topics and inform your group of treatment options at Greenleaf.

Topics include: Stress Management, Emotional Control and Anger Management, Understanding and Motivating an Addicted Person, Tips for Dealing with Seasonal Depression, Reducing Anxiety, etc.

Please contact the SGMC Speaker’s Bureau at 229-259-4420. *****************************

Alzheimer CareGiver Time-Out (ACTO)

ACTO is a social program for clients with Alzheimer's disease, other memory impairment, or the frail elderly. Caregivers may leave their loved ones at ACTO so that they can have some free time to attend to their other needs. ACTO is open Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. The service is free to all clients, funded in part by the United Way. We are located in Park Avenue United Methodist Church, 100 E. Park. Ave., Valdosta, GA 31602. For more information, please call 229-245-9094.

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My Friend’s House

is the name for the Valdosta State University Alzheimer's day care program. There are openings for anyone with a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or dementia. The program, which is free of charge, has the goal of preventing isolation by providing daily activities in a home-like environment for persons with Alzheimer’s and dementia. There is a support group for the caregivers on the third Wednesday of every month. Volunteers always are needed. Call 229-293-6146 for more information.

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FREE CLINIC IN LOWNDES COUNTY

The Partnership Health Center is a non-profit, free medical clinic. It provides primary healthcare to the working, uninsured people in Lowndes County who meet the eligibility guidelines. It is staffed by volunteer physicians, physician extenders, and nurses who offer their time to provide healthcare. It is located at 205 Woodrow Wilson Drive, across from the public library. Clinic is open Tuesday from 6:00 PM-9:00 PM, Wednesday from 10:00 AM- 4:00 PM and two Saturdays a month. These may expand as more staff is added.

COLORING BOOKS NEEDED FOR CLINIC TO ENTERTAIN CHILDREN

Our hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8:30am-4:30pm. Paperwork and medical visits are by appointments only.

The clinic also needs office volunteers to answer the phone and help with paperwork during the week (Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30-4:30pm

Patient eligibility requirements:

Income under 200% of the Federal Poverty Level,
between the ages of 18 and 64,
have no health insurance,
be a resident of Lowndes County, and
patient or dependent must be employed.

We look forward to serving Valdosta and extending healthcare to the people who need and deserve it. For additional information about the clinic, contact 229-245-0020 ext. 3.

The clinic needs volunteer physicians, nurses and administrative helpers on Tuesdays from 6-9 pm and 10 am to 4 pm (times may change depending on volunteer availability). A small amount of your time could help make a difference in the lives of many Lowndes residents.

Please note: Donations are accepted and important to our non-profit

organization. We also need donated medical equipment that will be

used to help the patients in our clinic. Please call if you can help

with either of these needs.

Do you know your PTI?

Parent to Parent is Georgia's Parent Training Information Center (PTI)

PTIs are federally funded programs through the United States Department of Education Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) authorized in Part D of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). PTIs serve families of children with disabilities who are ages birth through 26. We serve families of children with the full range of disabilities.

What do PTIs do for families? PTIs help families work with early intervention, education, and transition systems and services. We want to ensure that families receive training and information on their rights, responsibilities, and protections under IDEA so they can actively participate in planning and decision making that affects their children.

Georgia's PTI services, and all Parent to Parent of Georgia services, are provided free of charge. Just call 1800-229-2038. A coordinator is waiting to speak with you.

Humane Society of Valdosta/Lowndes County

Low Cost Spay & Neuter Program

229-247-3266

307 E. Jane Street, Valdosta

Pregnancy Support Clinic of Valdosta

Volunteer Opportunities

The Pregnancy Support Clinic of Valdosta is a Christ-centered ministry which advances the sanctity of human life and sexual purity empowering individuals to make life-affirming choices. Our ministry has many different opportunities for volunteers ranging from working behind the scenes on events to peer counseling. Call today to see where you can fit in, 229-333-0080, or visit our partners’ website for more information, www.pscvaldostapartners.org. Please note all interested parties must submit to an application process and 10 - 40 hours training commitment to volunteer.

HELP SOMEONE LEARN TO READ

Literacy Volunteer Program

We need tutors, learners, sponsors and YOU !

LEARNERS: CALL 333 -7515 (leave your name and number).

Literacy Bowl…our fundraiser. You may still pledge/donate to improve adult literacy. Send a check to LVP, 221 S. Ashley Street, Valdosta 31601

(If you are interested in learning more about this fundraiser, e-mail daltobello@sgrl.org.)

Goodwill Industries of the Southern Rivers, Inc.

is proud to offer the Valdosta Career Center without charge as a community service. Resources, technology and support services have been designed to help job seekers secure employment, and to assist in the development of micro-businesses.

WORK Connections for the Job Seeker include:

· listings of local job openings to connect job seekers with employment opportunities.

· telephones to arrange appointments and facilitate communications with employers.

· Georgia Work Ready testing

· computers to use in job searches have Microsoft Office and Publisher and internet access

· telephone, basic computer and networking skills classes

· resource library with a variety of materials to assist the job seeker prepare for and secure employment, as well as information regarding Medicaid, childcare, food stamps, training, financial aid and other community resources.

· photocopier, printers and fax machines

In addition to the resources listed above, entrepreneurs can get help to enhance marketing tools, develop a business plan or network with others in the community. Other services include:

* Free English as a Second Language classes

* Meeting rooms for groups

* List of community resources

Open 9 – 6 Monday – Thursday and 9 – 3 Friday

For more information, please contact:

229-316-1216 Fax 229-316-1218

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Paxen-WIA Work Readiness Program

Sponsored by the Southern Georgia Regional Commission

Our program's work readiness component emphasizes acquisition of essential job-search, employability, and life skills for youth ages 14-21. Participants also receive instruction in strategies for seeking, securing and succeeding in a job as well as supportive services to receive a GED and gain employment/enroll in post-secondary education after credential attainment. Qualifying participants receive a stipend for program completion, become eligible for a GED testing voucher, and will receive a $200 incentive for GED attainment.

For more information Contact: Charmane Thomas, Program Manager, www.paxen.com
Paxen Learning Corporation "We Change Lives"

221 S. Ashley, Valdosta

Office: 229-245-2488

South Georgia Council for

Youth in the Performing Arts

Please check our website www.sgcyoutharts.org.

South Georgia String Project

The South Georgia String Project is a collaborative community outreach program of Valdosta State University through the Valdosta Symphony Orchestra, the academic/professional orchestra in-residence at the university. The goal of the project is twofold: (1) to provide access to string instruction for children, thus culturally enriching the region and (2) to provide mentored teaching experiences for university music majors who will soon become school string teachers and cultural arts advocates.

The South Georgia String Project’s mission is to:

provide students with an opportunity for musical enjoyment and education through the study of stringed instruments.
promote personal development through music as an outlet for self-expression within a structured learning environment.
encourage student leadership and share student accomplishments within the community.
create partnerships through providing accessible string education for pre-college students while offering mentored teaching experiences for Valdosta State University music students who value string education.

For more information, go to http://www.valdosta.edu.sgsp or contact

Dr. Gerling at dcgerling@valdosta.edu or 229-259-2087.

Arts events in Southwest Georgia

For a listing of arts events from Columbus to Valdosta:

http://www.southwestgeorgia.net/events

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Employment Program for Seniors:

Senior Community Service Employment Program, sponsored by the US Department of Labor. This program enables qualified individuals to obtain paid, on the job training within their communities, update their job skills to enhance their marketability, develop new attitudes and gain greater self-confidence. Participants work 20 hours per week earning minimum wage in a non-profit organization or government agency and receive help in transitioning from the program into a new, unsubsidized employment opportunity.

For more information, call Beth Veal at 229-249-4885 or visit her at the Georgia Department of Labor in Valdosta. Program covers Ben Hill, Berrien, Brooks, Cook, Echols, Irwin, Lanier, Lowndes, Tift and Turner Counties.

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FUND HELPS CANCER PATIENTS

The Partnership Cancer Fund is a not-for-profit subsidiary of the Lowndes County Partnership for Health, Inc.

· Cancer can be a financially devastating disease. Even with health insurance, there can be many associated costs that put a strain on patients and their families.

· If you or someone you know is currently undergoing treatment for cancer, and lives in Lowndes County, or receives cancer treatment from a Lowndes County provider but lives outside Lowndes County, they may qualify for financial assistance from the Partnership Cancer Fund.

Financial assistance is available for:

· Transportation costs for Medical Care

· Nutritional Supplements

· Medications

· Certain types of Medical Equipment

Contact the Lowndes County Partnership for Health, Inc. at

229-245-0020 (option 1) to obtain an application or to request more information. You may also go to www.lcpfh.org

Tax deductible donations are accepted, and all funds remain in the local community to benefit as many cancer patients as possible. Send donations to P.O. Box 1782, Valdosta, GA 31603

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Searching for Section 8 housing in your area? Go to this website:

http://www.gasection8.com/pa/SearchRentals.aspx?t=1

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GET ACTIVE VALDOSTA !

For a listing of opportunities for running, cycling, swimming, walking or other active sports, go to the Get Active Valdosta website:

http://getactivevaldosta.com/coming.htm

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Pediatria HealthCare for Kids

New business in Valdosta provides pediatric day healthcare and in-home private duty nursing to children, through age six, who have medical complexities. Children served include those with complications of prematurity, chronic lung disease, tube feedings, colostomy care, cardiac disease and other complex needs. Many payment sources accepted.

For more information, go to www.pediatriakids.com or

call 229-316-1102

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Valdosta Camellia Society Come and learn more about this varied and beautiful local flower. For more information or to join the Valdosta Camellia Society, call 229-242-2965.

GIVE THE GIFT OF LIFE

Regular giving keeps supplies ready

American Red Cross has set up many public opportunities for blood donation (see list at the top of the month).

Please call 229-241-1141, Ext 221, to make an appointment to give the gift of life. To find donor sites throughout the region, visit www.givebloodredcross.org or call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE.

Adopt a rescue pet

Lowndes County Shelter

http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/GA53.html

Lake Park Animal Rescue

http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/lpaar.html

Lowndes County Humane Society

www.humanesocietyofvaldosta.org

Educational Opportunities for First Time Home Buyers

Valdosta-Lowndes County Habitat for Humanity, a certified Home Buyer Education Agency, has partnered with the Georgia Department of Community Affairs and the City of Valdosta to provide monthly Home Buyer Education Workshops that are FREE and open to anyone considering buying a home. This training is designed to help people explore their options as first-time home buyers and learn how to qualify to receive down payment assistance of $5,000 up to $20,000.

Participants will learn the advantages and disadvantages of owning a home, the necessity of having a budget in order to know how much house they can afford as well as the importance of a good credit history when applying for a mortgage loan. Information presented also includes how to work with housing professionals like realtors and bankers. Mortgage options such as the Georgia Dream Homeownership Program, Habitat for Humanity and Dream Valdosta are also presented. Pre-registration is required.

In addition to these one day workshops, Habitat offers a series of free Homeownership Skills classes that focus on developing good financial management skills, home maintenance skills and a variety of other topics important to new homeowners. These classes are open to all, and are held in a small group setting monthly for two weeks. Completion of this class series may also qualify first-time home buyers to receive a $5000.00 down payment assistance grant from the City of Valdosta if they purchase a house in the city’s Designated Revitalization Area.

To register for a Home Buyer Education Workshop or a series of Homeownership Skills Classes, please call 229-245-1330, ext 22.

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Habitat for Humanity Applicant Workshop

Call 229-245-1330, ext. 22 for more information.

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Habitat for Humanity offers:

Homeowners and Financial Skills Classes

Call for next class Carolyn at 229-245-1330/ext 22

Bring your credit report, a calculator and a list of the bills you owe.

These classes are mandatory for Habitat Partner Families. They may also be required for persons who wish to qualify for certain Down Payment Assistance loans or grants available from the City of Valdosta or the Georgia Dream Program (GA Department of Community Affairs).

Home Buyer Education Class19:

NovNovember 19

To register for classes call Carolyn at 229-245-1330/ext 22

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Certain people qualify in Georgia for a free phone:

https://www.safelinkwireless.com/EnrollmentPublic/program_info.aspx

You qualify for Lifeline Service in your area if...

1. You already participate in one of the following assistance programs:

Federal Public Housing Assistance / Section 8
Food Stamps
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
Medicaid
Senior citizen low-income discount plan offered by the local gas or power company
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

2. No one in your household currently receives Lifeline Assistance through another phone carrier. If someone in your household is receiving Lifeline Assistance you must cancel the service before applying for Lifeline Service through SafeLink Wireless.

3. You have a valid United States Postal Address. In order for us to ship you your FREE phone you must live at a residence that can receive mail from the US Post Office. Sorry, but P.O. Boxes cannot be accepted.

Call 1-800-977-3768 to have an application sent to you

Here is another free phone program for persons who qualify:

REACHOUT Wireless Government Assisted Program

To qualify you must participate in a minimum of one of these programs----Medicaid, SSI, Food Stamps, Section 8, TANF, LIHEAP, or National School Lunch Program's Free Lunch. The toll free number is 1-877-870-9444.

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Keep Lowndes/Valdosta Beautiful

is a non-profit organization always looking for volunteers to help out on various environmental and beautification projects and events all through the year. For a list of upcoming events and dates, please visit the Keep Lowndes/Valdosta Beautiful website at: www.klvb.net

The Adopt-A-Road program is an ongoing community service opportunity offered through Keep Lowndes/Valdosta Beautiful for organizations and businesses to adopt a portion of a road to keep clean throughout the year.

For more information on events, meetings, Adopt-A-Road, or signing up to volunteer, call or email Aaron Strickland at (229) 671-2499 or astrickland@lowndescounty.com

Volunteer at Second Harvest of South Georgia,

a member of Feeding America

Food Bank volunteer hours are as follows:

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Monday- Wednesday

9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Thursday

9:00 AM -12:00 noon Friday

8:00 AM - 12:00 noon, one Saturday a month (please call for dates)

Special appointments should be made for groups of ten or more.

We are always in need of volunteers.

Please call to schedule all volunteer work and/or for more information at 244-2678 ext. 234

Our new name and logo directly convey that we are providing access to food for people who need it- hungry Americans. In essence, "feeding" serves as a double meaning- both providing food and enriching lives.

We are now known as Second Harvest of South Georgia, Inc., and we are a member of Feeding America- The Nation’s Food Bank Network. This is a very subtle change, as we have had much success over the years with our branding in south Georgia. In the end, the wording in our organization’s name is the only change that will be seen by the public. We continue to provide the same goods and services for our loyal members.

Valdosta/ Lowndes Recreation, Parks and

Community Affairs Department

Mildred Hunter Community Center

All participants must pay an annual membership fee for the Mildred Hunter Community Center.

The membership fee is as follows:

Adults 18 and up: $30.00 per year

Seniors 50 and up : $12.00 per year or $1.00 per month

This membership fee will give you access to all of our recreational programs. Memberships will not cover evening instructional programs (Sewing Classes, Computer Classes, Karate Program, or Basketball Leagues). All participants must also complete and sign an active membership waiver form before participating in any center activity or program.

For more information contact Andre Newson @ 259-5437 or 259-5407.

If you would like to register in classes at the center, contact Andre Newson at the Mildred Hunter Center, 229-259-5407 or 259-5437

Homework Assistance, a tutoring program for the youth in the City of Valdosta that helps in excelling in academics. This meets Monday-Thursday afternoons from 3:00-5:45 and Friday afternoons from 3:00-4:45.

African Culture & Dance Class is a learning program taught by Iye Kargbo designed to teach about the African culture and show different styles in dance to children ages 5-12. This program meets Tuesday evenings from 6:00-6:45.

Marching Pride Drill Team, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 4:00 - 5:30 PM, This program helps young men in all communities to learn and build self-esteem, character and motivation. Age group is 7 to 16.

Phazes Modeling Troupe, is a posing program for teenagers in middle school and high school designed to show basic modeling skills. This program starts 1/27/11, meets Thursday evenings from 6:00-6:45 & Saturday mornings from 11:30-12:30.

Young Ladies’ Circle of Ambitions provides guidance, mentors, and cultivates young ladies into successful women. The young ladies will participate in group mentoring that will include guest speakers, workshops that are educational, and community service that promotes healthy living and productive lifestyles. Program meets twice a month, from 11am-12pm.

Intervention Guidance Mentoring Program is a mentoring program for youth and teenagers ages 11-18 to help in dealing with life, goals, conflict, and character to become model citizens. This program meets the every Tuesday evening beginning at 6.

Bingo & Bonus Bingo is for senior citizens to come together to compete against one another for fun and to win inexpensive prizes. It meets Wednesday mornings from 11:30-12:30. For more information, contact Michael Foster at 259-5407.

Senior Health Education involves walking, exercising, and interacting with other seniors to give them a chance to listen to guest speakers and about remaining in good health. Michael Foster and Courtnee Hawkins are coordinating this class. Program meets twice a month, Monday and Thursday mornings from 10:00am-11:00am.

Senior Social is a socializing program for older participants to come together for eating, fellowship, and/or playing Bingo for tallies. It starts 1/26/11, and meets on the last Wednesday from 11:30-12:30pm.

Free Sewing Classes
Monday and Tuesday, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM -Ages 15 and older

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Community Friends for International Students

Help give each new VSU international student a friend in the Valdosta community…become a resource for the student and help the student in times of homesickness and cultural adjustment. A Community Friend also provides the student an opportunity to share his/her culture. The Friend can be an individual or an entire family. By inviting an international student to dinner, taking her to the mall, or participating in other such social activities, a Community Friend helps an international student feel welcome and helps compensate for the separation from friends and family. This is a unique opportunity to learn about another culture and make a difference in the life of an international student. For more information, contact Irina McClellan, International Student Advisor, 229-333-7410.

KALEIDOSCOPE After School Program

Valdosta*Lowndes Recreation, Parks, and Community Affairs

presents after school programs at Clyattville Elementary School and Lake Park Elementary School. From 3:00 to 6:00 there will be homework assistance, structured games, and activities. A snack will be provided. The cost is $10 a day or $30 a week. Some scholarships are available. For more information, call 333-1861 or visit the website at valdostasportsandevent.com *************************************

Regularly Scheduled 12 Step Groups

For information, call 1-800-766-4653

Lowndes County

AA, 5:30 PM, meeting only, Monday thru Friday, at First Baptist Church (corner of Toombs Street and Central Avenue) in building across the street from the office on Toombs Street. All meetings are Open Discussion and non-smoking. Call 229-245-7516 or 229-244-0070.

AA 7:00 PM, First Baptist Church (corner of Toombs Street and Central Avenue) in building across the street from the office on Toombs Street. This meeting is Closed Discussion and includes Big Book Study. Call 229-245-7516 or 229-244-0070.

AA, Baytree Fellowship meets Thursdays 8:00 PM and Saturdays at 7:00 PM at Messiah Lutheran Church, 500 Baytree Road, Valdosta. Both meetings are non-smoking. Call 229-245-0426.

Northside Group AA meets Tuesday thru Saturday at noon, Sundays at 7:00 PM and Thursdays at 8:00 PM at Christ Episcopal Church, 1521 North Patterson Street, Valdosta. All meetings are Open Discussion and non-smoking, except the Sunday and Thursday evening meetings, which are Closed Discussion.

Twin Lakes Group AA meeting is at 8:00 PM Tuesdays and 8:30 PM Fridays at the Presbyterian Church in Lake Park, GA. Both meetings are Open Discussion and non-smoking.

Unity Group AA meetings are on Sundays at 3:00 PM; Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8:00 PM; and Saturdays at 10:00 PM at 400 St. Augustine Road, Valdosta. All sessions are Open Discussion except for 8:00 PM Mondays. All sessions allow smoking.

Valdosta Al-Anon, a support group for family and friends of alcoholics, meets at 12:00 Noon Mondays, and 5:30 PM Tuesdays and Thursdays at First Christian Church, 1905 North Patterson Street. For information, call 229-244-5014 or 229-247-0764.

Berrien County

Nashville Friendship Group meets Tuesdays and Fridays at 8:00 PM at the Old Jaycee Hut, Nashville, GA. Both meetings are Open Discussion and non-smoking.

Brooks County

Brooks County AA meets Tuesdays at 9:00 PM at the Methodist Church in Quitman.

Quitman Midtown AA meets Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:30 PM at 200 North Court Street, Quitman. The meetings are Open Discussion and non-smoking.

Cook County

Cook County AA meets Mondays and Thursdays at 8:00 PM at 214 South Hutchinson Avenue in Adel. Both meetings are Open Discussion and non-smoking.

Lanier County

Narcotics Anonymous

Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meets at 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM daily at 203 W. Central Avenue. Wednesday’s meeting is at the same place, but 8:00 PM – 9:30 PM.

Call 1-800-342-3487.

NA meets at the Boy Scout building at the corner of Central and Toombs 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM, every Wednesday. Call 229-247-0971.

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Community Services of Park Avenue United Methodist Church:

http://www.paumc.com/calendar-a-events/calendar

Also, AA meetings are held at 2106 Slater Street, behind PAUMC. Below are the meeting times:

Sunday: 7 pm
Monday: noon
Tuesday: noon and 8 pm
Wednesday: noon and 7 pm
Thursday: noon and 8 pm
Friday: noon
Saturday: noon

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Valdosta Lowndes Retired Educators Association meets every month except summer. Retired educators should come out and join us! All retired Educators are invited to attend and become a member if you aren't. Contact Fred Davis for more information, freddavis23@yahoo.com .

VOLUNTEER TO HELP VICTIMS OF CRIME

Volunteers are needed to provide assistance for our victims of crime in Lowndes County. Volunteers will assist the District Attorney’s (DA) Office by educating the public about victim’s rights, attending court proceedings with victims, and providing clerical assistance to the DA’s office. The DA’s Office handles sensitive information regarding crimes and victimization; therefore issues of confidentiality are vital. To learn more about volunteering, please call Carla Williams, Senior Victim Advocate, (229) 244-7170.

VSU Small Business Development Office

CLASSES

To register: http://www.georgiasbdc.org/?page_name=view_classes&city=Valdosta

To see all the course offerings, please visit us online at http://www.valdosta.edu/sbdc. To register for any of these courses, simply print out the flyer or brochure, clip and mail the registration, along with your payment, to our office. If you prefer, you may register in person at our office during our normal business hours and pay by credit card.

LegalAid-GA.org

Atlanta Legal Aid Society and Georgia Legal Services Program developed LegalAid-GA.org, a public access legal web site.

Know Your Rights. Georgians may now know their rights and legal responsibilities in 26 different areas of the law (over 1000 documents and links to legal information and government benefits).

Court Forms / Legal Forms. Georgians may now obtain copies of model complaint letters, legal forms, court documents and online applications for government benefits from a single location.
Find a Lawyer. Georgians may now find lawyers who will provide free and low-cost legal help throughout the state (including legal hotlines, legal aid organizations, lawyer referral agencies and bar associations).
Community Help. Georgians may locate nearby social service providers (including the Dial 211 and other helpline providers throughout the state).
Find a Court. Georgians may now locate the courts in each county (including court web sites).
Elderly legal issues handled at this site.
1101 North Patterson Street, Valdosta. 229-333-5232

Georgia Legal Services schedule in other counties:

Civil Cases only excluding tort (fee generating cases), class action, bankruptcy, child support, divorces w/o domestic violence). Call and confirm if it’s something that they handle and if its not they can point callers in the right direction.

Atkinson County 4^th Thursday of every month 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Willacoochee Senior Center Willacoochee, Georgia

Berrien County 2^nd Monday of every month 9:00 AM to Noon

Berrien County Courthouse Nashville, Georgia

Clinch County 3^rd Tuesday of every month 9:00 AM to Noon

Concerted Services Homerville, Georgia

Colquitt County 4^th Monday of every month 9:00 AM to Noon

9 South Main Street Moultrie, Georgia

Cook County 2^nd Thursday of every month 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Cook County Library 213 E. 2^nd Street Adel, Georgia

Thomas County 2^nd Monday of every month 9:00 AM to Noon

Thomas County Judicial Center 325 N. Madison Street Thomasville, Georgia

Tift County 3^rd Monday of every month 9:00 AM to Noon

State Bar Office 244 East 2^nd Street Tifton, Georgia

Habitat for Humanity Volunteer Opportunities:

New volunteer opportunity: Serve as receptionist in the Habitat office on Wednesday afternoons and all day Thursday and Friday.

Family Supporter

Family Supporters must have good people skills and understand the difference between empowering and enabling and understand the importance of confidentiality.

Supporters will be a friend and information source for our Habitat families. They will assist families throughout the entire process of becoming homeowners by answering questions, helping plan Dedication Celebrations, providing follow-up explanations of Homeownership Skills class materials, and identifying other community resources. Once a family moves into their new home the Supporter will maintain contact during the first year as family faces the challenges of homeownership.

Training is provided for Family Supporters.

Office Angels (Monday–Friday 9am–4pm): Answer phone, Greet visitors, Perform office duties

ReStore (Tuesday–Saturday 9 to 4): Display, sort & price stock, Assist customers, Test & repair large appliances

Jobsite (Tuesday–Saturday 8am–4pm): Help build houses, Serve as Site Host/Hostess, Paint, Landscape, Provide meals, Clean up

Serve on a committee: Church Relations, Construction, Family Selection, Family Support

Lunch providers for worksites needed

Dinner site volunteers needed for campus groups coming during their spring breaks.

For more information, contact Richard Hart : 242-3468, 563-1253 or Christine Nash: 245-1330 ext. 27, volunteerhabitat@bellsouth.net

For more information visit our website: www.valdostahabitat.org

To volunteer contact Volunteer Coordinator by e-mail: Christine Nash, volunteerhabitat@bellsouth.net or phone: 229-245-1330, ext 27.

Habitat ReStore

…is open to the public every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is at 2010 East Cypress St. For sale are donated new and used home improvement materials, furniture, appliances, and much more. Donations to the store are tax deductible. All sales proceeds benefit Valdosta-Lowndes County Habitat for Humanity and are used to help further the mission of building affordable housing for people in need.

Workers needed for ReStore…must be able to withstand variations of temperature…

For more information, call the store manager, Bill Ray, at 229-247-8513.

Flu vaccine

“Many people believe that if they have not gotten the flu or the flu vaccine by January, they are in the clear,” stated Debra Adams, RN, APRN, District Nursing and Clinical Director. “This is not true.

The CDC recommends certain groups getting vaccinated as soon as possible because they are at highest risk of getting the flu or spreading the flu to vulnerable populations. Those priority groups for getting the vaccine are pregnant women, caregivers for infants younger than 6 months of age, healthcare and emergency medical services personnel, persons from 6 months through 24 years of age, and persons 25 to 64 years of age who have health conditions, such as asthma and chronic congestive heart failure. Although priority groups have been highlighted, there are no restrictions on who can get the seasonal or H1N1 vaccines at this time.

For more information on NIVW or receiving your flu vaccine call your local health department, South Health District at 229-333-5290 or visit www.flu.gov.

MAY 2012

MAY is Foster Care Awareness Month, and we need foster and adoptive parents…”You don’t have to be perfect to be a perfect parent.”

There are over 300 Lowndes County children in foster care. There are only 149 beds available in the county, forcing DFCS to send children to other counties while they are in care. There are nine children free for adoption who have not had resources identified for them. Foster parents must take 20 hours of certification and annual refresher courses. If you are interested in information on becoming a foster or adoptive parent, call

229-333-5200 for Mark Harper.

BLOOD DONATION OPPORTUNITIES

Valdosta Blood Donation Center 2517-A Bemiss Road

Mondays, Tuesdays: 10:00 am - 7:00 pm

Wednesdays: 1:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays: 8:00 am - 2:00 pm

For more information or to set up a blood donation event, contact Tina Tucker,

American Red Cross, 229-241-1141, Ext 221 or tuckert@usa.redcross.org

11/25/11

Tifton Mall

458 N. Virginia Ave.

Tifton

2:00 pm - 6:00 pm

11/25/11

Valdosta Mall Valdosta

1700 Norman Drive

Valdosta

1:00 pm - 6:00 pm

11/30/11

ABAC

2802 Moore Hwy

Tifton

11:00 am - 4:00 pm

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VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY

PUBLIC PLANETARIUM SHOWS

Take a tour of the far reaches of the night sky without leaving Valdosta.

2011-2012

SCHEDULE OF SHOWS

Challenger League Sports For children ages 5-21 (some age exceptions) with any level of disability. Call about volunteer opportunities as a buddy to a participating child. Call Cheryl at the YMCA, 229-244-4646 or cmarshall@valdostaymca.com

Homeless Veteran in need of help? Call 1-877-4AID VET (1-877-424-3838)

To schedule an appointment, call (229) 219-1281 Monday through Friday between 9:00 am and 11:00 am. If you cannot call during these times, call anytime and leave a message. Let us know the best time to reach you and an intake coordinator will call you back.

Call 229-245-1330, ext. 22 for more information.

Homeless Veteran in need of help?
Call 1-877-4AID VET (1-877-424-3838)