DULUTH, Ga. | Thirty three years after its creation as a nonprofit organization with a mission to bring Help, Hope, Housing, and Healing to families experiencing homelessness, Rainbow Village has launched a capital campaign to more than double the number of people it can serve.
On October 24, Rainbow Village officially launched its “Building Homes. Building Hope” capital campaign to raise $15 million. To date, it has raised $10,752,768, including a $4.6 million grant from Gwinnett County. This is an affordable housing project funded by American Rescue Plan Act funds. Rainbow Village CEO Melanie Conner says: “We have a long way to go, but I am so hopeful, given this amazing launch.”
Within its current campus footprint, the nonprofit can serve 30 families with transitional housing and transformational programming for up to two years. The recent purchase of an adjacent property paired with the development of a three-year Strategic Plan means Rainbow Village can more than double its capacity to serve an additional 36 families.
Conner adds: “More than bricks and mortar, this campaign is not just about raising funds; it’s about igniting hope and fostering change in our community.”
Gwinnett County Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson says: “Our commitment to building strong, supportive communities is at the heart of everything we do in Gwinnett County. It is an honor to contribute to the growth of Rainbow Village and its mission to provide a safe and stable home for those in need. This award is more than just funding—it’s a promise to continue nurturing hope and creating opportunities for families to thrive.”
City of Duluth Mayor Greg Whitlock shares similar sentiments about the long-standing nonprofit, “Rainbow Village is an organization the city leans on to keep us in touch with the community. For folks facing hard times, we have to make sure that they believe there is hope, and that is exactly what Rainbow Village does.”
In addition, ambiance that underscored the vital role that Rainbow Village plays in addressing housing insecurity. Attendees were also treated to comfort food and acoustic tunes.
The Capital Campaign funds will support the construction of two new buildings to house 36 apartments, along with the provision of tools needed to strengthen its operational foundation. Rainbow Village encourages donations of all sizes and has established a variety of giving opportunities. With every dollar raised, the organization moves one step closer to achieving its transformative goals.
- For more information about Rainbow Village’s three-year Strategic Plan and ways to contribute to the Capital Campaign, click here.
Glow Light Show returns to Coolray Field soon
Baseball season might be over, but the holiday season is right around the corner. Glow Light Show returns to Coolray Field, home of the Gwinnett Stripers, next month.
The area’s most popular drive through light show debuts Friday, November 15 and runs nightly through Sunday, December 29, including holidays. The dazzling display of sights and sounds showcases over one million Christmas LED lights while you stay comfortable in your car.
Time slotted tickets allow for admission to the show for a reserved time and only require one ticket per vehicle, proving to be the area’s most budget-friendly seasonal event. The optional Flex ticket allows for rescheduling for busy families during a hectic holiday season.
4th Harvest Festival in Lawrenceville is Nov. 9
The City of Lawrenceville announces the lineup for the fourth annual Harvest Festival, taking place at the Lawrenceville Lawn from noon to 6 p.m. on November 9. This year’s Harvest Fest is jam-packed with lively music, curated artisan vendors, and free family fun.
Mayor David Still says: “The Lawrenceville Harvest Festival has grown into a solid tradition in our community, bringing people together each year to celebrate creativity, music, and family fun. We showcase incredible talent, uplift local artisans, and provide a free event where residents and visitors alike can enjoy what makes Lawrenceville special.”
Alongside fall entertainment, Harvest Festival features live performances from talented up-and-coming artists, including headliner Tiera Kennedy joined by Fulton Lee, The Doohickeys, and Six One Five Collective. In addition to live music from the lawn stage, attendees can enjoy festive activities for the whole family. Shop the artisan market filled with local craft vendors and indulge in snacks and treats from a variety of food vendors. Kids will be attracted by the games, while everyone can test their skills in activities like sack races, a pie-eating contest, and a Pumpkin Smash competing for a chance to win prizes.
Braselton, Barrow hospitals get new leader
Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Braselton and NGMC in Barrow County are getting a new leader who has more than two decades of experience growing services to care for people.
Kevin Matson will begin serving as Northeast Georgia Health System’s vice president of Regional Hospitals as of November 4. In his role, Matson will lead daily operations for NGMC Braselton and provide oversight of NGMC Barrow. John Neidenbach will continue serving as administrator of NGMC Barrow, leading daily operations.
Matson joined NGHS in 2000. He received a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Brenau University and earned his master’s degree in Health Administration from Ohio University. He most recently led the successful opening of NGMC Lumpkin’s new campus in Dahlonega.
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