April 2024
Read Across America 2024
Go Red Event
A group of ladies from Hancock County attended the 2nd Annual Go Red Event sponsored by the Washington County Regional Medical Center on Saturday, February 24th at the Pringle Building in Sandersville, Ga. This event was well attended and full of helpful information as Women Heart Health is major concern among all women.
Bear Friday
Our lower elementary students enjoyed a visit from Regina Butts, Executive Director Family Connection – Communities in Schools of Hancock County, Inc. Ms. Butts brought a couple of surprise Disney visitors and a gift for each pupil. After reading a book to the class, she gave each student a copy of the book, a backpack, and a teddy bear. Thank you, Mrs. Butts!
Toy Drive 2023
Get Georgia Reading Summit
Coat Drive 2023
Apple Crunch Day is a celebration of Georgia Apples
Electric Truck Presentation
Hancock County Summer Camp
Elementary School highest AR readers from Kindergarten thru 5th grade receives a FREE bike and helmet donated by community partners, local organizations, and personal donation. Thank you donor’s for supporting our earlier readers.
On Saturday, April 15th Family Connection-Communities In School of Hancock County, Inc. attend the Knights of Columbus Annual Charity Breakfast on Lake Oconee. These years the Knights of Columbus donated over $4,000 to Family Connection-Communities In School of Hancock to support the Ferst Readers program and Communities In Schools hygiene closet and weekly backpack program. Mr. Linton Ingram, Site Coordinator was on hand to share the importance and work Communities In School in Hancock County.
Our nearly developed Hygiene Closet” We Care Closet” serves all students in the Hancock County School district in need of hygiene products such as toothbrush, toothpaste, hair products and combs, feminine pads, and deodorant, etc. If you are interested in donating to our closet, please contact us. Also, funds will be used to continue our Ferst Readers program that provides FREE books in the home of children birth to age 5.
Pinwheel for Child Abuse Month
Clinic
Donations
Bear Friday
Red Ribbon week was observed the last week of October to help students be aware and say no to drugs.
Family Connection- Communities in Schools of Hancock County received a mini grant from Washington EMC to implement a Hygiene Closet to provide feminine pads, deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste and other hygiene products to students in the Hancock County School District who may be in need of services. Grand opening was held on October 20th at the M. E. Lewis Elementary School.
Pre-K
Apple Crunch is a celebration of Georgia Apples. The Georgia Department of Education School Nutrition Program and Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County partners with the Georgia Department of Agriculture in celebrating apples in Georgia and to promote healthy eating. Apples are a part of the Georgia Harvest of Month initiative recognized the entire month of September.
Therefore, Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County sponsored this event along with the Hancock County School Nutrition Director, Mrs. Calandra Jones to join in on the Statewide celebration of apples by crunching into local grown apples at 12:00 noon on Friday, September 20th. This collective crunch encourages healthy eating and supports farms to school initiative throughout Georgia.
As Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County. Inc, Director Ms. Regina Butts partner with our local grocery store IGA to provide apples to businesses, law enforcement, daycare center, County Courthouse and other agencies to celebrate and encourage healthy eating. An apple a day keeps the Doctor away. Many thanks to all our supporters for submitting their pictures.
Friday, September 30, 2022
Local citizens of Hancock County participated in the annual Community Health Fair held on Saturday, June 18th in conjunction with a 3K Faith Fun Walk sponsored by Hancock County Health Improvement partnership. Several churches and their pastors attended and participated.
Summer Camp Pictures
Accelerated Reader Program
Hancock County Sheriff Department and Family Connection-Communities In School o Hancock County partner together for the 22nd Annual DEA Prescription Drug Take Back Day 2022. This event was held on Saturday, April 30th at the CJE Event Center in Devereaux, Ga. LT. Marlo Primus and Ms. Regina Butts of Family Connection- Communities In Schools was on hand to collect and explain the importance of DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. This year Hancock County collected over 20 pounds of prescription drugs removed from homes in Hancock County.
DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day reflects DEA’s commitment to Americans’ safety and health, encouraging the public to remove unneeded medications from their homes as a measure of preventing medication misuse and opioid addiction from ever starting.
DEA is committed to making our communities safer and healthier, and we can do this by reducing overdoses and overdose deaths. While the community does its part to turn in unneeded medications and remove them from potential harm, we are doing our part to further reduce drug-related violence
M.E. Lewis Publishing Party
4th Graders at M. E. Lewis Elementary School participated in the Annual Publishing Party, where they had an opportunity to share their writings. These students have worked hard all year long writing, editing and writing for this day. The stories shared by the 4th grades students was well planned and organized. These are our future author, illustrators, and editors. Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County Inc. partner with staff at M.E. Lewis Elementary School to provide refreshments for the party.
Family Connection-Communities In Schools provided the guest speaker who is an author, publisher and playwriter. Mrs. Kreceda Tyler share her experiences as author and encourage all students who has a desire to be author to do so. She share a video of an eleven year old who has published her first book. Mrs. Tyler shared that the sky in the limit. Mrs. Tyler is from Southwest Georgia. Kreceda Tyler is a lover of of written words which explains why she is currently an author, a screenwriter, and film producer for BOSS Magnet Media.
Most recently her endeavors led her to a position as an Acquisition Editor for Black Odyssey Media Publication, to help amplify black writers voices in niche genres within the traditional publishing area. When she’s not writing, creating films, or helping other author’s writing their dream come true, she can be found in Augusta, Ga jamming to the 90;s music, reading and spending time with her husband and three children.
Hancock Central Middle and High Observe April as Alcohol Awareness Month
Bear Friday and Kickoff for Read Across America
Mayor Allen Haywood signing a proclamation.
E. Lewis Kindergarten students welcome a special visitor on Friday, January 21st at their Bear Friday event. Bear Friday is an event designed to provide Kindergarten students with a book, a bag, and a bear. Each Kindergarten student received their own personal teddy bear to take home with a book for their parent/guardian to read to them and discuss what was just Read.
Ms. Regina Butts, Executive Director of Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. strives daily to partner with schools and other organization to make sure students in our community has access to books and to learn how to read. So, be on the lookout for the Cat in Hat at the end of February as we kick off Read Across America Literacy Spirit Week.
Vaccination Awareness High School Presentation
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Vaccination outreach project. Go get vaccinated.
On Tuesday, November 10th Family Connection- Communities In Schools of Hancock County Inc, Community Healthcare Systems, Inc, REACH and Hancock County Health Department presented the Hancock County School District with a learning event to encourage teens and to become fully vaccinate whether flu or COVID19. Mrs. Darice Oppong and Mrs. Camesha Grant, Outreach Specialist shared with 9th thru 12th grade students.
This learning event allow Family Connection- Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. to share Fair Count grant dollars by purchasing hand sanitizer, masks and other PPE equipment along with vaccination information in gift bags provided by UGA- Food Talk and HHIP.
This vaccine initiative will be at CJE in Deveraux, Ga. on December 4th where non-vaccinated can stop by the Holiday Festival to become vaccinated. There will live entertainment, holiday shopping, giveaways, and fun for the children.
Jersey Day, hero day, hat day @ M.E. Lewis Elementary for Red Ribbon Week.
Read for the record
Local citizen stop by to dispose of Prescription drug during the National Prescription drug Take Back Day.
National Domestic Violence Awareness
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County engage the Community in Georgia statewide- Apple Crunch Day. Over 900 students in the school district participated with 2 Daycare Centers sending in photos and 10 business and organization participating locally.
The Georgia Department of Education School Nutrition Program and Georgia Department of Agriculture celebrates the production of apples in Georgia. What is the Georgia Apple Crunch 4 Lunch? It is Georgia’s statewide celebration of APPLES by crunching into locally grown apples at 12:00 noon on Friday, September 24, 2021. This collective crunch encourages healthy eating and supports farm to school initiatives throughout Georgia.
Back to School and More
Pinwheel in Hancock
Home Reading pilot program. Reading Coach raising fresh eggs and exposing students to life creation.
Read Across America – Dr. Seuss
Family Connection- Communities in Schools of Hancock County, Inc. Continues to Address Early Literacy needs in the Community. On December 10, 2020 Georgia Family Connection was awarded $1725 in support of the Get Georgia Reading Home Pilot project. Because of COVID 19 pandemic Hancock County students has been 100% virtual since March of 2020.
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock Co. Inc, partner with the Apostolic Faith Church and NestFresh Cage Free Egg for their donation of over 900 dozen of eggs. During the give away Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock Co. added a packet of GenRx prescription drug information and free facial mask donated by Ford Motor Company.
Ms. Tip and Hancock County DFACS sharing with community Santa Cruising Toy Drive Give away on December 17th. Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock Inc. provide snack bags for the event.
AmeriCorp Member Sends Home a Literacy Holiday Project
Mrs. Bernestine Harden, Americorp Member and a volunteer, are preparing gifts for her case managed students that are a part of Family Connection -Communities In Schools of Hancock County to construct a gingerbread house or train during the Christmas Break.
Students will be encouraged to use their reading skills to following directions and comprehend them in order to have a successful project. Students will send a picture of the finished product . Literacy engagement is one of the strategies of Family Connection- Communities In Schools of Hancock County, according to Executive Director Ms. Regina Butts
Holiday Health and Prescription Drug information sharing 2020
Flu fighter outreach held at the Reynolds Brothers Property in Springfield
JHA for the Read for the Record event
Hancock Pink pumpkin entry with Community Health Care System
Apple Crunch Day 2020
Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock Co. Spent Thursday, September 24th recognizing essential workers at Community Health Care System staff with lunch. Our collaborative partners and citizens of Hancock County appreciate your hard work, dedication and loyalty to serve during this time. Continue to serve and be safe. Pictured Mr. Terrell Reid, Site Coordinator CIS. Dr. Kimberly Harrison, CHCS, and Ms. Regina Butts, Executive Director for Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock.
Kicking off 2020 Apple Crunch 4 Lunch event in Hancock County.
Family Connection-CIS Executive Director participates in the Department of Health Flu Fighters campaign.
On Tuesday, August 25th Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County, Inc. provided lunch to the Hancock County Health Department staff for the awesome work they are doing during COVID-19. These hardworking ladies risk their lives to saves lives by providing testing at our local Health Department. We appreciate you and your hard work.
Senior bags with PPE and GenRx items
Hancock County Back to School Supply and Resource Giveaway 2020
Resilient Middle Georgia is an initiative of Community Partnership, has launched a new effort to encourage community members to meet and support neighbors. The first portion of this effort is a specialized sticky note that neighbors can post on each other’s doors with encouraging notes and offers of connection. Hancock County received over 800 special sticky notes and playdough that was placed in students bookbags during the Back to School Supply giveaway on July 29-31st.
“If I I Can Help Somebody” A few weeks ago when this awful pandemic called COVID19 came about, my first instinct was how was I going to reach my case manage students and what I could do to encourage them and the community while staying at home. Ms. Butts, Executive Director suggested several things to do to stay connected with my students, such as calling them, mailing students worksheets and activities, sending friendly cards to the nursing home and making calls to the elderly. I did those things, but I wanted to do something from MY Heart, something that students as well as adults could value and use during this pandemic. I need self satisfaction… a feeling that made me feel ” If I can just help save one life then my work would not be in vain”. So, I decided that I would make face protection masks and donate them to worthy cause and our first res-ponders. I have made and donated over 100 masks. Today, I am especially working on the 16 students on my caseload mask, and plan on sending them to them through the mail. I must add… once the word got out that I was making masks… the demand became huge. I’m striving daily to meet the demand one day at time. I am truly grateful that God has given me a talent that is worthy of HIS PEOPLE to Save Lives.
Mrs. Bernestine Harden, Ameri-Corp Member assisting Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc.
2020 Read Across America event held on March 2nd
Special guest Chase and Sky from the Paw Patrol.
On Friday, January 31st, M. E. Lewis Elementary School Kindergarten staff Kicked off their Bear Friday Event being sponsored by Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County. This event is designed for parent engagement, where a parent or an adult read with their child over the weekend. Each Kindergarten student received a bear, a book and a bag. Each Friday, these students will get to take home their personal bear with a new a book to be read to them over the weekend. Thanks Kindergarten Students and Staff.
SBHC tour in Atlanta, Ga.
Pictured left to right (Manager of the SBHC in Atlanta, Mrs. Sheanette Drake, Ms. Regina Butts, Dr. Veda Johnson-Emory)
Jonesboro Connection Church makes their 6th visit to Hancock County to support Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. Pastor Lance Sumner and the Jonesboro Connection Church brought over 90 book-bags filled with Christmas goodies for students in Hancock County. They also played games, told the Christmas story and prepared a delicious lunch for all families and friends that were in attendance.
Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County, Inc. celebrated the dedication of their second Little Library at the New Beulah Baptist Church where Rev. Carl S. Lott serves as Pastor. We encourage children and families in this area to stop by New Beulah and bring a book and Take a Book. Many thanks to Mattie West and Sheanette Drake for coordinating this effort.
Hancock County newest Little Library ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony held on Sunday November 10th at the New Beulah Baptist Church where Rev.Carl S. Lott serves as Pastor. Little Libraries of Hancock County is being made possible through the Literacy efforts of Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County and partners.
Red Ribbon poster contest winners at M.E. Lewis Elementary School. Prize donation was given on the behalf of Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County.
Prescription Drug Take Back and Trunk-a-Treat was held on Sunday, October 27, 2019. Hancock County was able to take back a little over 5 lbs of prescription drugs that will be disposed of properly. Many thanks to Mrs. Bernestine Harden, Mr. Terrell Reid, Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County Staff and Sgt. Marlin Primus, from the Hancock County Sheriffs Department.
Celebrating Red Ribbon Week in Hancock County.
On Wednesday, October 23rd the Hancock County Community observed Breast Cancer Awareness Day in Sparta/Hancock County. Asked all citizen to wear pink to support those who fought, still fighting and caregivers for their service.
Head Start Lunch
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Apple Crunch Day 2019. Hear the crunch all over Hancock County!
Back to School Supply Drive – Saturday, August 3, 2019
Prescription Drugs and Alcohol usage among teens
On Thursday, July 25th Linc Boyer of Milledgeville, Ga. Police Department was special guest to share information on Prescription Drugs and Alcohol usage among teens. This program was sponsored by Ms. Regina Butts, Executive Director of Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County along with the GenRX grant that covers prescriptions Drugs.
Free Little Library
Second Beulah Baptist Church is next in line for Free Little Library to be placed on site at the church. Mrs. Ollie Shinsholster received books from Webster Pharmacy from a previous book drive to stock the newly install library in the Beulah Community, to provide additional reading materials and resources to parents and children in rural areas of Hancock County. Pictured (Will Webster of Webster Pharmacy, and Ollie Shinsholster of Second Beulah Member.)
Bike Giveaway
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County participated in the annual M.E. Lewis Elementary School awards program. With the assistance of donors of bikes and funds. We were able to award grades K-5th students who were the Top Accelerated Readers Winners for the 2018-2019 school year. Mr. Terrell Reid, Site Coordinator and Ms. Regina Butts were available to make presentation on the behalf of our donors.
Sport Balls bags
Family Connection/CIS is providing Sport Balls bags to the three local camps this summer to add physical activity to all students enrolled in Summer Camp. Summer camps are being held in the Deveraux, Springfield and Sparta areas. Students are engaged in varies learning activities to continue their learning by reading thirty minutes each day and physical activities daily.
Summer Camp 2019 in Deveraux Ga.
Farm to School Summit
On June 6-7, the Seventh Georgia Farm to School and Early Care and Education Summit was hosted at Helm College in Macon, Ga. The farm t early care and education (farm to ECE) and farm to school movement connects early care providers, schools, and local farms in an efforts to serve healthy meals and snacks, improve student nutrition, and increase farm and gardening education opportunities.
This year’s Summit welcomes early care providers and staff, teacher, school nutrition staff, students, parents , farmers, distributors and others in learning more about Georgia’s farm to ECE and farm to school community. Attending this year’s summit in Macon, Ga. was Ms. Regina Butts, Family Connection-Communities In School of Hancock County, Inc. Executive Director, Mr. Linton Ingram, Hancock County -School District Food Nutrition Manager and Mrs. Regina J. Jackson, HealthMPower Community Advocate.
Prescription Drug take back day 2019 in Hancock County
On April 27th, The Hancock County Sheriff Office and Sheriff Terrell Primus and staff, and the many community partners with Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. to participate in 2019 -DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. The National Prescription Drug Take Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications. Many thanks to all who participate in the event to make our community a little safer. Our next prescription Take Back Day will be held in the month of October.
April National Child Abuse Prevention Month Pinwheels Ceremony
In 1983, President Reagan first designated April as Child Abuse Prevention Month stating, “Prevention of abuse requires that neighborhoods and communities be attentive to the problems of families in their midst and be willing to help when help is needed. It requires the active concern of educational, medical, mental health, law enforcement, and social service professionals, and the efforts of volunteers and private citizens.”
On Wednesday, April 24th the Hancock County Department of Family Children Services and several other’s partners observed April as National Child Abuse Month. A very short program was presented and several partners planted Blue and Silver Pinwheels at the Hancock County Youth Opportunity Center after the proclamation signing done by Mayor William Evans and Chairperson Helen Sisite Hudson. There were twelve pinwheels planted for this community. Much has been done since to raise awareness. Nationwide efforts are currently underway to improve child safety and prevent child maltreatment-related fatalities.
(pictured left to right – Tarneshia Maddox-Guest from Baldwin Task Force, Vernell Smith-Hancock County Head Start, Helen”Sistie” Hudson- Chair-lady Hancock County Board of Commissioners, Olivette Long- Department of Family Children Service Supervisor and Staff, Johnnie Wilson- Ocmulgee District Attorney’s Office, Mattie West-HIPP member, Annie Ingram-Chair-lady-Hancock County Board of Education, Shirley Tucker-Manager Hancock County Health Department, Alma Brown-HIPP member, William Evans-Mayor of the City of Sparta, Allen Haywood-Mayor Pro-Tem, Terrell Primus- Sheriff Hancock County, many more partners and community representatives where present at this event were not photographed).
Bullying Tour sponsored by: Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. Strengthening your minds and bodies – Presenter Willie Rain bends iron rod to display that inner strength can be found in each of us.
Garden Hydroponics at M.E. Lewis Elementary School
2019 National Read Across America Week Observed
Veterans Reading Day
Toys for Tots
On December 21st and 22nd Hancock County received an abundance of toys from the Marine Corp Toys for Tots in Augusta, Ga. and local donations. Many families would not have had toys if these generous donors and Toys for Tots was not providing. Many thanks to our Site Coordinator, Mr. Terrell Reid, Head Start Family Advocates, Mrs. Delois Bell and Mr. Gary Hill , also the Education Manager Mrs. Vernell Smith for making sure a few days before Christmas that children and families had food to eat and their children had something under the tree. Ms. Regina Butts, Executive Director of Family Connection and Communities and Schools of Hancock County, Inc. has been in partnership with Toys for Tots for over 4 years now. We are just grateful for the partnership.
Holiday Book Bags
On December 8th, over 30 out of town guest visited Hancock County to bring over 90 Holiday Book bags to families and children in Hancock County. The Connection Church of Jonesboro, Ga. has adopted Hancock County for five (5) years to spread a little Christmas cheer, love and support. Under the leadership of their Pastor- Lance Sumner this magnificent church congregation has so graciously providing additional support to our Community. We thank you Connection Church of Jonesboro, Ga. Ms. Regina Butts, Executive Director of Family Connection and Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. do appreciate the loyalty and dedication of this church so many miles of away to support our children and families.
Thanksgiving Cheer
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County spread some Thanksgiving cheer with local families through the Department of Juvenile Justice. Thru local donations and financial contributions from staff members, we were able to share with three families this holiday season. Donations was given from SWAH fitness dancers.
“Hancock County Wake Up Read”
On Wednesday, October 18th Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. carried literacy and health to the streets of Mayfield, Ga. Our strategy team “Hancock County Wake Up Read” visited the Mayfield Community for a ribbon cutting ceremony, literacy and health fun-day. Over thirty -five people attended this grand event. This event kicked off the first of little lending libraries to be place within in Hancock County. Regina Butts, ED for Family Connection-CIS of Hancock County encourages students and parent to take advantage of this opportunity to visit the lending libraries to get books for themselves and children within their household. Many thanks for all our helpers and IGA for donating a gift card.
Attendance Awareness Month
September 2018
Children can’t learn if they aren’t in school—and we all have an important role to play in supporting student attendance. Check out the wide array of resources offered by Attendance Works and begin working with your local partners to address chronic absenteeism and increase attendance for children in your community. Get Started
Ferst Reader Summit
On Friday, August 24th, Regina Butts, Executive Director for Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County attended the Annual Ferst Reader Summit in Madison, Ga. Regina serves as CAT team leader for Hancock County where we have been sending books to students from birth to age 5 since 1999. Ferst Foundation is a literacy program that provides Free books to students and parent guide monthly. Below Butts, was a winner of drawing for Free books.
Wake Up and Read Summer Camp Bike winner for the most books read
M.E. Lewis Ribbon Cutting for new Reading lab
On Saturday, July 28th over 400 children and parents attended the Annual Back to School Supply, Literacy and Health Awareness Day event. Students were able to pick up free school supplies and parents were able to pickup free literature from HealthMPowers, Fort Valley State University EFNEP, UGA- Food Talk, HHIPP, Hancock County DFACS, Sparta Lions Club, Delta Sorority, Hancock County Health Department, Hospice, Community Health Care System provided free school supplies, and health checks, FREE story books, free book bags, parent engagement sign-up, Free haircuts by Nate, Peppie and Julius Watkins. Also, a Free meal sponsored by Men on a Mission. Parents were also given an opportunity select school uniforms. Many thanks to all our sponsors, vendors, parents and children, Hancock County School Board and Staff, John Hancock Academy and staff of Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County Board and Staff.
Butts Attends Grade-Level Reading Week in Philadelphia
During the week of July 24-27, Regina Butts, Executive Director of Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County and Trelaine Neville, Care source Out Reach Coordinator, attended GLR Week 2018 in Philadelphia. The week feature exciting activities focused on accelerating the learning from last year’s event in Denver while strengthening connections to grade-level reading champions nationwide and beyond.
Hancock County received recognition of your community achievement as a 2018 Bright Spotlight with the M.E. Lewis featured story “Read, Read to Succeed” where Butts and Principal Dr. Norman Hart implement various reading strategies and events to engage parents and to motivate students from K-5 to read more and to understand the importance of reading. Also, Hancock County was recognized for Council Champion, our partner Care Source who provided resources and funding to support Bear Friday Project, Dr. Seuss events and many other school and community related reading events.
Many thanks to our school district staff, parents, children, community stakeholders, bushiness for your commitment to the Campaign for Grade-Level Reading in Hancock County. (pictured Regina Butts, Marcell Johnson and Trealine Neville.)
Reading Summer at summer camp in Sparta Ga.
On June 20th, 30 students from the Springfield Camp attended a Georgia College State University in Milledgeville, Ga for a Reading Rally with special guest Malcolm Mitchell of the New England Patriots and the 2018 Super Bowl Champion wide receiver. Mitchell entered the University of Georgia on a Junior High reading level. Malcolm shared his story on how important it is read. Mitchell is an author and advocate for reading. Each student who attendance received a copy of Malcolm book entitled :The Magic Hat” This activity the Sandra Dunagan Deal Center of Early Language and Literacy at Georgia College was the sponsor. Many thanks to those supporter who donated funds for our students to eat and dine on the Georgia College Max cafeteria. The student really enjoyed their meal.
Foster Grandparents reading to students and assisting them with literacy skill handouts
Wake Up Read School District Reading Specialist reading to summer campers
EMC Grant Donation for P.E equipment purchased.
Child abuse pinwheel ceremony done with collaborative partners. Great Day in Hancock County!
Thanks for the Donation!
On Sunday, April 22, 2018 Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. Executive Director Regina Butts and the Principal of the M.E. Lewis Elementary attended the Knight of Columbus Council #13808 Christ Our King & Savior Catholic Church located on Lake Oconee Parkway in Greensboro, Ga.
Ferst Foundation of Hancock County received a check for $1800.00 and Communities In Schools in the amount of $1700.00 made possible on the behalf of the philanthropic work of the Knights of Columbus Council #13808. This council is comprised of over 180 officers and council members who have worked throughout the year to raise money for many local charities that support (Greene, Putnam, and Hancock Counties).
5th grade Playground Equipment.
M.E. Lewis receives new P.E equipment due to Executive Director, Regina Butts of Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. writing a mini grant for $1,663.00 and the Play 60 grant. On Friday, April 19th, P.E. Coach Patrick Graney held a small ceremony to unveil each grade level physical fitness equipment. Go M.E. Lewis!
Elementary students receiving 10 pounds of food weekly.
Children living in poverty and hunger is a major obstacle. The Pantry Pack program is Golden Harvest Food Bank’s new pilot initiative in communities such as Hancock County to stop hunger. The program provides packs of food and hygiene items that are easily accessible. Each pack includes an educational sheet explaining proper nutrition and food preparation. For $8 per month students receives 40 pounds per week. Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. and their partners are making this possible for twenty-three students in our community. Publix and CIS thank you for your $70.00 donation. Every dollar makes a diffidence.
On Monday, March 26th, Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. braved the cold to support the M.E. Lewis Elementary School Bear Friday Literacy Recharge and the Kick-off for Accelerated Reader 2018.
The purpose of these program were to remind students on the importance of reading, to motivate them to continue to read , encourage them to do well on the Georgia Milestone testing that they will embark upon when they return from spring. But most of all, this event was to announce the Big Bike give-way to the girl and the boy who earns the most point by reading books on and/or above their reading level. Please stay tune in May, for the FINAL results !! Thank you for your attendance this morning and your donation to purchase a bike and helmet.
For those who wish to donate it looks like we will need some 22, 24 and 26 inch bikes. Please have your purchase done and delivered by May 5th.
Read Across America in Hancock County
Mrs. Teresa Kell from United Insurance -Kemper Cares Program presented Ms. Regina Butts a check for $250 to support the literacy and health initiatives of Family Connection-Communities In Schools.
Students will benefits from this donations by receiving additional school supplies and support for Georgia Milestone testing and English and Language for the middle and elementary school students. Mrs. Kell has support this organization providing and packing school weekend pantry packs and school supplies. Many thanks to Kemper Cares for there donation.
Read Across America in Hancock County
Mr. Zack Taylor, local Manager of Georgia Power presented Ms. Regina Butts, Executive Director of Family Connection-Communities In School of Hancock County, Inc. with a $300.00 donation to support the work of our organization.
Family Connection- Communities in Schools of Hancock County, Inc. is the only non-profit organization in the community that has business standards and registered with Secretary of State that provides case management services to identified students who are in need of various support systems, such as food, school supplies, clothing, tutoring, behavior management, parent engagement, Ameri-Corp tutor and academic success.
Many thanks to Georgia Power for your donation and we welcome Mr. Zack Taylor to our community.
Bear Friday Literacy Kick-Off
On Wednesday, November 1st Family Connection-Communties and Schools of Hancock County and partners held a literacy kick-off for Kindergarten students at the M.E. Lewis Elementary School. This Project is called “Bear Friday“. The project is designed to engage parents and students to in a reading activity over the weekend. Each Kindergarten student will receive a teddy bear, a book and book bag to carry home each Friday for their parents, siblings or friends to read to them. This project is design to increase students vocabulary and reading proficiency. There were special guest who attended to cheer the Kindergartener on to be great readers, our special guest was SKYE from Paw Patrol, Minnie Mouse and the Cat in the Hat. Many thanks to all our donors for supporting this effort to get and keep our early learners reading.
Balloon release in observance of Domestic Violence in Hancock County
Georgia Pre-K Week- Mrs. Annie Ingram, Board Education Chair reading at PreK meeting.
The Choice Bus
The Choice Bus takes students through a 25-minute interactive presentation designed to show the relevancy of education to career choices and lifetime earning potential. Midway through the presentation, a full scale replica of a prison cell is revealed. It’s a powerful demonstration of how education—and the lack of education—is connected to making good or bad choices. During the
presentation, The Choice Bus staff leads students in discussions about the importance of education, choosing friends wisely, avoiding gangs, being respectful to others and having a career interest.
Students learn several eye-opening facts about education, that a good education leads to a lifetime of opportunities and a lack of education will likely lead to a lifetime of despair and hardship.
The Choice Bus message is powerful!!!! The Hancock County School District enjoyed two full days for the middle and high school interaction on Choice Bus. This event was coordinated by Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County and the Hancock County School district staff members.
Annual Back to School Give Away
Held on July 29th. Nearly 500 families served. School started August 1st. All made possible by sponsors, donors and volunteers.
Executive Director and Early Head Start Center Manager – Mrs. Vernell Smith, attended a two day Summit Early Literacy at Georgia College State University. Governor and First Lady Nathan and Sandra Deal were guests for the ending luncheon. The Literacy Center was named in honor of First Lady Sandra Deal.
Students at Summer camp who read the most books were awarded $10 for there participation. Summer reading program sponsored Family Connection-Communities In School of Hancock County Inc.
Congratulations to Ms. Fatima’s class – M.E. Lewis Lexlie Winners for 2017.
Ferst Foundation Early Childhood Literacy Program
Regina Butts, Executive Director present Ferst Foundation with a check for $1700 to support the Ferst Foundation Early Childhood Literacy Program to support students in Hancock County to keep them reading. Ferst Foundation Childhood Literacy is a program that send books to children ages birth to 5. Pictured: Regina Butts, Executive Director and Glenda Cofer, Ferst Foundation Literacy of Morgan County.
Snack Bags
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. and partners presented third and fourth at the M.E. Lewis snack bags that contains a 100% juice box, cereal bar and sunchips as a way to get that extra energy boost to continue to do well on the Georgia Milestone test.
Site Coordinator, Terrell Reid and Mentor Mr. Calvin Wilson delivered bags to all 3rd and 4th grade students. Recharges will be distributed to all 8th graders and the entire high school later next week.
Dr. Seuss Birthday Celebration
WJBF Channel 6 in Augusta, Ga. donates books to Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock Co.Inc. in effort to support the the strategy of making sure that all students in third grade are proficient readers. Pictured: Ms. Helen Johnson of WJBF Channel 6 posed with books donated to Executive Director of Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County, Inc. Books were collected during a book drop in Augusta, Ga. along with support from Bridgestone.
Read Across America Proclamation signing with local officials. Pictures- Dr Charles Culver, Superintendent of School, Mayor William Evans, and County Commission Chair-lady- Sistie Hudson. Students from the M.E. Lewis Elementary School and Hancock Central Middle School were present during the proclamation signing. Also, three students from the Middle School visited the M.E. Lewis Elementary School to read the Kindergarten class. Also, there were local officials, pastor’s, and community representatives were present to read a story to the entire M.E. Lewis Elementary School.
Odessay Ware Students
Hancock Central Middle School Mentor and Mentee Holiday celebration.
Mentors are Calvin Wilson, Dr. Patricia Bell and Kenneth Taylor.
School Nutrition
On Tuesday, December 6th, twenty five elementary, middle and high school students from Hancock County attending a School nutrition sample of chicken from various vendor. The gist of the chicken tasting adventure were to get an honest opinion on what flavor or dish of chicken students would like to see served in their school cafeteria. This event was hosted by Mr. Linton Ingram, School Nutritionist. Family Connection-Communities in Schools Executive Director chaperone and tasted chicken along with the students. The chicken sampling took place at the Perry Art Center in Perry, Ga.
Pine Cone craft project
Arts and Crafts instructors Mrs. Bernestine Harden and Family Connection-Communities In School of Hancock County ED taught an after-school Pine Cone craft project. The project was to make a Christmas Tree and decorate it using ribbons and beads. Students in the class enjoyed their project.
21st Century Arts and Crafts Project
Winners Amari Winkfield and Jashera Fluellen were winners of the arts and crafts edible arrangement drawing. The edible arrangements were completed by students in the 21st Century Arts and Craft class taught by Mrs. Bernestine Harden and Ms. Regina Butts. Instructors engaged students in a lifelong activity of making floral arrangements using simple materials that could possible be a money making adventure.
Pictures include snap shots of Middle School 21st Century students attending an arts and crafts class to make table decoration using natures own pine cones and simple embellishment. Also shown are photos of the edible arrangement session. Students completed 14 turkeys that will be displayed at local nursing home facilitate as dining room table center pieces for the Thanksgiving Holiday. These students not only learned a simple project, but they also learned how important it is share with others, especially those who are home bound.
Winter Warm-up/Coat Drive sponsored by Family Connection- Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Victory Baptist Church and Amerigroup of Georgia. This event was held on Saturday, November 12th. Amerigroup of Georgia provided hats, mittens and gloves to all that attended. Amerigroup served Krispy Kreme Donuts and Cocoa bar for refreshment.
Many thanks to Pierce Memorial, Victory Baptist Church, Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Bernestine Harden, and the many volunteers who donated coats and assisted in this event. Special thanks to Kalmar Williams, a resident of Hancock County who is attending GCSU.
Students and Community Partners participate in one hour information session in reference to Domestic Violence. October is National Domestic Violence Month.
Representative Mack Jackson reading to the children at Hancock County Pre-K on October 5th. While observing National PreK Week for Georgia
Family Connection- Communities In Schools of Hancock County Partners with Summer Camps
2nd graders at M.E. Lewis Elementary School checking out the books that were donated by WJBF and other partners in the Augusta, Ga. area. Thanks for supporting Hancock County Schools!
Family Connection – Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. Executive Director – Regina Butts attended Dr. Seuss fund-raiser in Putnam County. Ms.Butts participated in the one mile fun run. After, the fun the crowd enter Putnam County Primary School for Dr. Seuss games, face painting, cake walk, and information booths. Many thanks to Annie Ingram and Agnes Griffith for coming to observe. This was event was sponsored by volunteers of Ferst Foundation to keep children from birth to five reading age appropriate books that are mailed to their homes on a monthly bases.
On March 7th, Ms. Helen B. Johnson, Account Manager and Mr. Ed Bloodworth, Weather forecaster for Good Morning Augusta of WJBF News Channel 6 in Augusta, Ga. presented Family Connection- Communities in Schools of Hancock County Inc. Executive Director Ms. Regina Butts with over 150 children books from a local book drive sponsored by WJBF. These books will be shared with the Hancock County Early Head Start program along with the M.E.Lewis Elementary school. These books are perfect timing because of the “Get Georgia Read” cohort initiative by 2020 all Georgia students will be on grade level by third grade.
Thanks to a private donor Family Connection/Communities In School of Hancock County was able to partner with Helping Hands of Hancock County, the Department of Family and Children Services and Sandy’s IGA to provide 125 free turkeys to needy families throughout the County. We would like to thank all who made this possible.
Back to School Supply give away held on Aug 1, 2015
Presentation of Check to Hancock County Family Connection
Back to school supply give away
Executive Directors Teresa Carter Burke County, Laurie Cook, Richmond County, Carol Lewis, President of CIS Georgia and Regina Butts of Hancock County attended the Georgia Chamber Power Lunch in Augusta, Georgia on June 30th. Executive Directors from Communities In Schools were able to network local business and agencies on economic development.
Site Coordinator and Executive Director recognize teachers at M.E. Lewis Elementary School. May 4-7 is National Teacher’s Week. Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County salutes all the teacher’s in the Hancock County School District.
21st Century Students in Culinary Arts class display one of there many project entitled “Brownies in a jar”.
Principle Jones with CIS Students
Sparta Cleanup Day
Coat Giveaway
Display of student work of the year
Family Connection Executive Director and a student Merecedes attends a college focus banquet on medicine sponsored by Representative Mack Jack. Mercedes poses with Representative Mack Jack
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County Executive Director attends a conference of teen dating with two local parents and students. Conference was sponsored by Georgia Legal Services Program of Macon, Ga. Special guest speaker was Judge Glenda Hatchett. Theme was ” Secret and Stilettos”
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. attended a special ceremony to support Literacy during the month of March will First Lady Governor Deal and Dr. Seuss.
Literacy Program
Devonta’s Spotlight
Culinary Arts
FC/CIS Board and Staff with National Accreditation Certificate
Family Connection-Communties In Schools of Hancock County is presented a check for $250.00 from Georgia Power. Check was presented by Mrs. LaTuyna Goodwin, of Georgia Power. Present was Allen Haywood, LaTunya Goodwin, Regina Butts, Gary Hill, Aketi Mayweather and Willie Mae Hurse.
Hancock County Family Connection- Communities Schools Holiday Back-Pack giveaway sponsored by The Connection Church of Jonesboro, Ga. Local CIS students receives back packs filled with goodies and school supplies for the Christmas Holidays.
The slogan of the week contest was held during red ribbon week October 27 – 31 at M. E. Lewis Elementary School.
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VISTA volunteer reads ” Three Little Pumpkins” dressed in their witches hat for the Fall season at Head Start.
Family Connection-Community In School of Hancock County Fall Movie and Skating Saturday was well attended.
5th Annual Labor Day Community Picnic
Live Healthy Hancock Biggest Loser Photos
Community Garden at the Housing Authority
Reading Across America
Summer Camp 2013
Downtown Restoration
Family Connection- Communities in Schools of Hancock County received a mini grant from Washington EMC to implement a Hygiene Closet to provide feminine pads, deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste and other hygiene products to students in the Hancock County School District who may be in need of services. Grand opening was held on October 20th at the M. E. Lewis Elementary School.
Pre-K
Apple Crunch is a celebration of Georgia Apples. The Georgia Department of Education School Nutrition Program and Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County partners with the Georgia Department of Agriculture in celebrating apples in Georgia and to promote healthy eating. Apples are a part of the Georgia Harvest of Month initiative recognized the entire month of September.
Therefore, Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County sponsored this event along with the Hancock County School Nutrition Director, Mrs. Calandra Jones to join in on the Statewide celebration of apples by crunching into local grown apples at 12:00 noon on Friday, September 20th. This collective crunch encourages healthy eating and supports farms to school initiative throughout Georgia.
As Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County. Inc, Director Ms. Regina Butts partner with our local grocery store IGA to provide apples to businesses, law enforcement, daycare center, County Courthouse and other agencies to celebrate and encourage healthy eating. An apple a day keeps the Doctor away. Many thanks to all our supporters for submitting their pictures.
Friday, September 30, 2022
Local citizens of Hancock County participated in the annual Community Health Fair held on Saturday, June 18th in conjunction with a 3K Faith Fun Walk sponsored by Hancock County Health Improvement partnership. Several churches and their pastors attended and participated.
Summer Camp Pictures
Accelerated Reader Program
Hancock County Sheriff Department and Family Connection-Communities In School o Hancock County partner together for the 22nd Annual DEA Prescription Drug Take Back Day 2022. This event was held on Saturday, April 30th at the CJE Event Center in Devereaux, Ga. LT. Marlo Primus and Ms. Regina Butts of Family Connection- Communities In Schools was on hand to collect and explain the importance of DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. This year Hancock County collected over 20 pounds of prescription drugs removed from homes in Hancock County.
DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day reflects DEA’s commitment to Americans’ safety and health, encouraging the public to remove unneeded medications from their homes as a measure of preventing medication misuse and opioid addiction from ever starting.
DEA is committed to making our communities safer and healthier, and we can do this by reducing overdoses and overdose deaths. While the community does its part to turn in unneeded medications and remove them from potential harm, we are doing our part to further reduce drug-related violence
M.E. Lewis Publishing Party
4th Graders at M. E. Lewis Elementary School participated in the Annual Publishing Party, where they had an opportunity to share their writings. These students have worked hard all year long writing, editing and writing for this day. The stories shared by the 4th grades students was well planned and organized. These are our future author, illustrators, and editors. Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County Inc. partner with staff at M.E. Lewis Elementary School to provide refreshments for the party.
Family Connection-Communities In Schools provided the guest speaker who is an author, publisher and playwriter. Mrs. Kreceda Tyler share her experiences as author and encourage all students who has a desire to be author to do so. She share a video of an eleven year old who has published her first book. Mrs. Tyler shared that the sky in the limit. Mrs. Tyler is from Southwest Georgia. Kreceda Tyler is a lover of of written words which explains why she is currently an author, a screenwriter, and film producer for BOSS Magnet Media.
Most recently her endeavors led her to a position as an Acquisition Editor for Black Odyssey Media Publication, to help amplify black writers voices in niche genres within the traditional publishing area. When she’s not writing, creating films, or helping other author’s writing their dream come true, she can be found in Augusta, Ga jamming to the 90;s music, reading and spending time with her husband and three children.
Hancock Central Middle and High Observe April as Alcohol Awareness Month
Bear Friday and Kickoff for Read Across America
Mayor Allen Haywood signing a proclamation.
E. Lewis Kindergarten students welcome a special visitor on Friday, January 21st at their Bear Friday event. Bear Friday is an event designed to provide Kindergarten students with a book, a bag, and a bear. Each Kindergarten student received their own personal teddy bear to take home with a book for their parent/guardian to read to them and discuss what was just Read.
Ms. Regina Butts, Executive Director of Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. strives daily to partner with schools and other organization to make sure students in our community has access to books and to learn how to read. So, be on the lookout for the Cat in Hat at the end of February as we kick off Read Across America Literacy Spirit Week.
Vaccination Awareness High School Presentation
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Vaccination outreach project. Go get vaccinated.
On Tuesday, November 10th Family Connection- Communities In Schools of Hancock County Inc, Community Healthcare Systems, Inc, REACH and Hancock County Health Department presented the Hancock County School District with a learning event to encourage teens and to become fully vaccinate whether flu or COVID19. Mrs. Darice Oppong and Mrs. Camesha Grant, Outreach Specialist shared with 9th thru 12th grade students.
This learning event allow Family Connection- Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. to share Fair Count grant dollars by purchasing hand sanitizer, masks and other PPE equipment along with vaccination information in gift bags provided by UGA- Food Talk and HHIP.
This vaccine initiative will be at CJE in Deveraux, Ga. on December 4th where non-vaccinated can stop by the Holiday Festival to become vaccinated. There will live entertainment, holiday shopping, giveaways, and fun for the children.
Jersey Day, hero day, hat day @ M.E. Lewis Elementary for Red Ribbon Week.
Read for the record
Local citizen stop by to dispose of Prescription drug during the National Prescription drug Take Back Day.
National Domestic Violence Awareness
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County engage the Community in Georgia statewide- Apple Crunch Day. Over 900 students in the school district participated with 2 Daycare Centers sending in photos and 10 business and organization participating locally.
The Georgia Department of Education School Nutrition Program and Georgia Department of Agriculture celebrates the production of apples in Georgia. What is the Georgia Apple Crunch 4 Lunch? It is Georgia’s statewide celebration of APPLES by crunching into locally grown apples at 12:00 noon on Friday, September 24, 2021. This collective crunch encourages healthy eating and supports farm to school initiatives throughout Georgia.
Back to School and More
Pinwheel in Hancock
Home Reading pilot program. Reading Coach raising fresh eggs and exposing students to life creation.
Read Across America – Dr. Seuss
Family Connection- Communities in Schools of Hancock County, Inc. Continues to Address Early Literacy needs in the Community. On December 10, 2020 Georgia Family Connection was awarded $1725 in support of the Get Georgia Reading Home Pilot project. Because of COVID 19 pandemic Hancock County students has been 100% virtual since March of 2020.
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock Co. Inc, partner with the Apostolic Faith Church and NestFresh Cage Free Egg for their donation of over 900 dozen of eggs. During the give away Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock Co. added a packet of GenRx prescription drug information and free facial mask donated by Ford Motor Company.
Ms. Tip and Hancock County DFACS sharing with community Santa Cruising Toy Drive Give away on December 17th. Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock Inc. provide snack bags for the event.
AmeriCorp Member Sends Home a Literacy Holiday Project
Mrs. Bernestine Harden, Americorp Member and a volunteer, are preparing gifts for her case managed students that are a part of Family Connection -Communities In Schools of Hancock County to construct a gingerbread house or train during the Christmas Break.
Students will be encouraged to use their reading skills to following directions and comprehend them in order to have a successful project. Students will send a picture of the finished product . Literacy engagement is one of the strategies of Family Connection- Communities In Schools of Hancock County, according to Executive Director Ms. Regina Butts
Holiday Health and Prescription Drug information sharing 2020
Flu fighter outreach held at the Reynolds Brothers Property in Springfield
JHA for the Read for the Record event
Hancock Pink pumpkin entry with Community Health Care System
Apple Crunch Day 2020
Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock Co. Spent Thursday, September 24th recognizing essential workers at Community Health Care System staff with lunch. Our collaborative partners and citizens of Hancock County appreciate your hard work, dedication and loyalty to serve during this time. Continue to serve and be safe. Pictured Mr. Terrell Reid, Site Coordinator CIS. Dr. Kimberly Harrison, CHCS, and Ms. Regina Butts, Executive Director for Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock.
Kicking off 2020 Apple Crunch 4 Lunch event in Hancock County.
Family Connection-CIS Executive Director participates in the Department of Health Flu Fighters campaign.
On Tuesday, August 25th Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County, Inc. provided lunch to the Hancock County Health Department staff for the awesome work they are doing during COVID-19. These hardworking ladies risk their lives to saves lives by providing testing at our local Health Department. We appreciate you and your hard work.
Senior bags with PPE and GenRx items
Hancock County Back to School Supply and Resource Giveaway 2020
Resilient Middle Georgia is an initiative of Community Partnership, has launched a new effort to encourage community members to meet and support neighbors. The first portion of this effort is a specialized sticky note that neighbors can post on each other’s doors with encouraging notes and offers of connection. Hancock County received over 800 special sticky notes and playdough that was placed in students bookbags during the Back to School Supply giveaway on July 29-31st.
“If I I Can Help Somebody” A few weeks ago when this awful pandemic called COVID19 came about, my first instinct was how was I going to reach my case manage students and what I could do to encourage them and the community while staying at home. Ms. Butts, Executive Director suggested several things to do to stay connected with my students, such as calling them, mailing students worksheets and activities, sending friendly cards to the nursing home and making calls to the elderly. I did those things, but I wanted to do something from MY Heart, something that students as well as adults could value and use during this pandemic. I need self satisfaction… a feeling that made me feel ” If I can just help save one life then my work would not be in vain”. So, I decided that I would make face protection masks and donate them to worthy cause and our first res-ponders. I have made and donated over 100 masks. Today, I am especially working on the 16 students on my caseload mask, and plan on sending them to them through the mail. I must add… once the word got out that I was making masks… the demand became huge. I’m striving daily to meet the demand one day at time. I am truly grateful that God has given me a talent that is worthy of HIS PEOPLE to Save Lives.
Mrs. Bernestine Harden, Ameri-Corp Member assisting Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc.
2020 Read Across America event held on March 2nd
Special guest Chase and Sky from the Paw Patrol.
On Friday, January 31st, M. E. Lewis Elementary School Kindergarten staff Kicked off their Bear Friday Event being sponsored by Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County. This event is designed for parent engagement, where a parent or an adult read with their child over the weekend. Each Kindergarten student received a bear, a book and a bag. Each Friday, these students will get to take home their personal bear with a new a book to be read to them over the weekend. Thanks Kindergarten Students and Staff.
SBHC tour in Atlanta, Ga.
Pictured left to right (Manager of the SBHC in Atlanta, Mrs. Sheanette Drake, Ms. Regina Butts, Dr. Veda Johnson-Emory)
Jonesboro Connection Church makes their 6th visit to Hancock County to support Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. Pastor Lance Sumner and the Jonesboro Connection Church brought over 90 book-bags filled with Christmas goodies for students in Hancock County. They also played games, told the Christmas story and prepared a delicious lunch for all families and friends that were in attendance.
Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County, Inc. celebrated the dedication of their second Little Library at the New Beulah Baptist Church where Rev. Carl S. Lott serves as Pastor. We encourage children and families in this area to stop by New Beulah and bring a book and Take a Book. Many thanks to Mattie West and Sheanette Drake for coordinating this effort.
Hancock County newest Little Library ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony held on Sunday November 10th at the New Beulah Baptist Church where Rev.Carl S. Lott serves as Pastor. Little Libraries of Hancock County is being made possible through the Literacy efforts of Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County and partners.
Red Ribbon poster contest winners at M.E. Lewis Elementary School. Prize donation was given on the behalf of Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County.
Prescription Drug Take Back and Trunk-a-Treat was held on Sunday, October 27, 2019. Hancock County was able to take back a little over 5 lbs of prescription drugs that will be disposed of properly. Many thanks to Mrs. Bernestine Harden, Mr. Terrell Reid, Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County Staff and Sgt. Marlin Primus, from the Hancock County Sheriffs Department.
Celebrating Red Ribbon Week in Hancock County.
On Wednesday, October 23rd the Hancock County Community observed Breast Cancer Awareness Day in Sparta/Hancock County. Asked all citizen to wear pink to support those who fought, still fighting and caregivers for their service.
Head Start Lunch
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Apple Crunch Day 2019. Hear the crunch all over Hancock County!
Back to School Supply Drive – Saturday, August 3, 2019
Prescription Drugs and Alcohol usage among teens
On Thursday, July 25th Linc Boyer of Milledgeville, Ga. Police Department was special guest to share information on Prescription Drugs and Alcohol usage among teens. This program was sponsored by Ms. Regina Butts, Executive Director of Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County along with the GenRX grant that covers prescriptions Drugs.
Free Little Library
Second Beulah Baptist Church is next in line for Free Little Library to be placed on site at the church. Mrs. Ollie Shinsholster received books from Webster Pharmacy from a previous book drive to stock the newly install library in the Beulah Community, to provide additional reading materials and resources to parents and children in rural areas of Hancock County. Pictured (Will Webster of Webster Pharmacy, and Ollie Shinsholster of Second Beulah Member.)
Bike Giveaway
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County participated in the annual M.E. Lewis Elementary School awards program. With the assistance of donors of bikes and funds. We were able to award grades K-5th students who were the Top Accelerated Readers Winners for the 2018-2019 school year. Mr. Terrell Reid, Site Coordinator and Ms. Regina Butts were available to make presentation on the behalf of our donors.
Sport Balls bags
Family Connection/CIS is providing Sport Balls bags to the three local camps this summer to add physical activity to all students enrolled in Summer Camp. Summer camps are being held in the Deveraux, Springfield and Sparta areas. Students are engaged in varies learning activities to continue their learning by reading thirty minutes each day and physical activities daily.
Summer Camp 2019 in Deveraux Ga.
Farm to School Summit
On June 6-7, the Seventh Georgia Farm to School and Early Care and Education Summit was hosted at Helm College in Macon, Ga. The farm t early care and education (farm to ECE) and farm to school movement connects early care providers, schools, and local farms in an efforts to serve healthy meals and snacks, improve student nutrition, and increase farm and gardening education opportunities.
This year’s Summit welcomes early care providers and staff, teacher, school nutrition staff, students, parents , farmers, distributors and others in learning more about Georgia’s farm to ECE and farm to school community. Attending this year’s summit in Macon, Ga. was Ms. Regina Butts, Family Connection-Communities In School of Hancock County, Inc. Executive Director, Mr. Linton Ingram, Hancock County -School District Food Nutrition Manager and Mrs. Regina J. Jackson, HealthMPower Community Advocate.
Prescription Drug take back day 2019 in Hancock County
On April 27th, The Hancock County Sheriff Office and Sheriff Terrell Primus and staff, and the many community partners with Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. to participate in 2019 -DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. The National Prescription Drug Take Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications. Many thanks to all who participate in the event to make our community a little safer. Our next prescription Take Back Day will be held in the month of October.
April National Child Abuse Prevention Month Pinwheels Ceremony
In 1983, President Reagan first designated April as Child Abuse Prevention Month stating, “Prevention of abuse requires that neighborhoods and communities be attentive to the problems of families in their midst and be willing to help when help is needed. It requires the active concern of educational, medical, mental health, law enforcement, and social service professionals, and the efforts of volunteers and private citizens.”
On Wednesday, April 24th the Hancock County Department of Family Children Services and several other’s partners observed April as National Child Abuse Month. A very short program was presented and several partners planted Blue and Silver Pinwheels at the Hancock County Youth Opportunity Center after the proclamation signing done by Mayor William Evans and Chairperson Helen Sisite Hudson. There were twelve pinwheels planted for this community. Much has been done since to raise awareness. Nationwide efforts are currently underway to improve child safety and prevent child maltreatment-related fatalities.
(pictured left to right – Tarneshia Maddox-Guest from Baldwin Task Force, Vernell Smith-Hancock County Head Start, Helen”Sistie” Hudson- Chair-lady Hancock County Board of Commissioners, Olivette Long- Department of Family Children Service Supervisor and Staff, Johnnie Wilson- Ocmulgee District Attorney’s Office, Mattie West-HIPP member, Annie Ingram-Chair-lady-Hancock County Board of Education, Shirley Tucker-Manager Hancock County Health Department, Alma Brown-HIPP member, William Evans-Mayor of the City of Sparta, Allen Haywood-Mayor Pro-Tem, Terrell Primus- Sheriff Hancock County, many more partners and community representatives where present at this event were not photographed).
Bullying Tour sponsored by: Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. Strengthening your minds and bodies – Presenter Willie Rain bends iron rod to display that inner strength can be found in each of us.
Garden Hydroponics at M.E. Lewis Elementary School
2019 National Read Across America Week Observed
Veterans Reading Day
Toys for Tots
On December 21st and 22nd Hancock County received an abundance of toys from the Marine Corp Toys for Tots in Augusta, Ga. and local donations. Many families would not have had toys if these generous donors and Toys for Tots was not providing. Many thanks to our Site Coordinator, Mr. Terrell Reid, Head Start Family Advocates, Mrs. Delois Bell and Mr. Gary Hill , also the Education Manager Mrs. Vernell Smith for making sure a few days before Christmas that children and families had food to eat and their children had something under the tree. Ms. Regina Butts, Executive Director of Family Connection and Communities and Schools of Hancock County, Inc. has been in partnership with Toys for Tots for over 4 years now. We are just grateful for the partnership.
Holiday Book Bags
On December 8th, over 30 out of town guest visited Hancock County to bring over 90 Holiday Book bags to families and children in Hancock County. The Connection Church of Jonesboro, Ga. has adopted Hancock County for five (5) years to spread a little Christmas cheer, love and support. Under the leadership of their Pastor- Lance Sumner this magnificent church congregation has so graciously providing additional support to our Community. We thank you Connection Church of Jonesboro, Ga. Ms. Regina Butts, Executive Director of Family Connection and Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. do appreciate the loyalty and dedication of this church so many miles of away to support our children and families.
Thanksgiving Cheer
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County spread some Thanksgiving cheer with local families through the Department of Juvenile Justice. Thru local donations and financial contributions from staff members, we were able to share with three families this holiday season. Donations was given from SWAH fitness dancers.
“Hancock County Wake Up Read”
On Wednesday, October 18th Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. carried literacy and health to the streets of Mayfield, Ga. Our strategy team “Hancock County Wake Up Read” visited the Mayfield Community for a ribbon cutting ceremony, literacy and health fun-day. Over thirty -five people attended this grand event. This event kicked off the first of little lending libraries to be place within in Hancock County. Regina Butts, ED for Family Connection-CIS of Hancock County encourages students and parent to take advantage of this opportunity to visit the lending libraries to get books for themselves and children within their household. Many thanks for all our helpers and IGA for donating a gift card.
Attendance Awareness Month
September 2018
Children can’t learn if they aren’t in school—and we all have an important role to play in supporting student attendance. Check out the wide array of resources offered by Attendance Works and begin working with your local partners to address chronic absenteeism and increase attendance for children in your community. Get Started
Ferst Reader Summit
On Friday, August 24th, Regina Butts, Executive Director for Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County attended the Annual Ferst Reader Summit in Madison, Ga. Regina serves as CAT team leader for Hancock County where we have been sending books to students from birth to age 5 since 1999. Ferst Foundation is a literacy program that provides Free books to students and parent guide monthly. Below Butts, was a winner of drawing for Free books.
Wake Up and Read Summer Camp Bike winner for the most books read
M.E. Lewis Ribbon Cutting for new Reading lab
On Saturday, July 28th over 400 children and parents attended the Annual Back to School Supply, Literacy and Health Awareness Day event. Students were able to pick up free school supplies and parents were able to pickup free literature from HealthMPowers, Fort Valley State University EFNEP, UGA- Food Talk, HHIPP, Hancock County DFACS, Sparta Lions Club, Delta Sorority, Hancock County Health Department, Hospice, Community Health Care System provided free school supplies, and health checks, FREE story books, free book bags, parent engagement sign-up, Free haircuts by Nate, Peppie and Julius Watkins. Also, a Free meal sponsored by Men on a Mission. Parents were also given an opportunity select school uniforms. Many thanks to all our sponsors, vendors, parents and children, Hancock County School Board and Staff, John Hancock Academy and staff of Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County Board and Staff.
Butts Attends Grade-Level Reading Week in Philadelphia
During the week of July 24-27, Regina Butts, Executive Director of Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County and Trelaine Neville, Care source Out Reach Coordinator, attended GLR Week 2018 in Philadelphia. The week feature exciting activities focused on accelerating the learning from last year’s event in Denver while strengthening connections to grade-level reading champions nationwide and beyond.
Hancock County received recognition of your community achievement as a 2018 Bright Spotlight with the M.E. Lewis featured story “Read, Read to Succeed” where Butts and Principal Dr. Norman Hart implement various reading strategies and events to engage parents and to motivate students from K-5 to read more and to understand the importance of reading. Also, Hancock County was recognized for Council Champion, our partner Care Source who provided resources and funding to support Bear Friday Project, Dr. Seuss events and many other school and community related reading events.
Many thanks to our school district staff, parents, children, community stakeholders, bushiness for your commitment to the Campaign for Grade-Level Reading in Hancock County. (pictured Regina Butts, Marcell Johnson and Trealine Neville.)
Reading Summer at summer camp in Sparta Ga.
On June 20th, 30 students from the Springfield Camp attended a Georgia College State University in Milledgeville, Ga for a Reading Rally with special guest Malcolm Mitchell of the New England Patriots and the 2018 Super Bowl Champion wide receiver. Mitchell entered the University of Georgia on a Junior High reading level. Malcolm shared his story on how important it is read. Mitchell is an author and advocate for reading. Each student who attendance received a copy of Malcolm book entitled :The Magic Hat” This activity the Sandra Dunagan Deal Center of Early Language and Literacy at Georgia College was the sponsor. Many thanks to those supporter who donated funds for our students to eat and dine on the Georgia College Max cafeteria. The student really enjoyed their meal.
Foster Grandparents reading to students and assisting them with literacy skill handouts
Wake Up Read School District Reading Specialist reading to summer campers
EMC Grant Donation for P.E equipment purchased.
Child abuse pinwheel ceremony done with collaborative partners. Great Day in Hancock County!
Thanks for the Donation!
On Sunday, April 22, 2018 Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. Executive Director Regina Butts and the Principal of the M.E. Lewis Elementary attended the Knight of Columbus Council #13808 Christ Our King & Savior Catholic Church located on Lake Oconee Parkway in Greensboro, Ga.
Ferst Foundation of Hancock County received a check for $1800.00 and Communities In Schools in the amount of $1700.00 made possible on the behalf of the philanthropic work of the Knights of Columbus Council #13808. This council is comprised of over 180 officers and council members who have worked throughout the year to raise money for many local charities that support (Greene, Putnam, and Hancock Counties).
5th grade Playground Equipment.
M.E. Lewis receives new P.E equipment due to Executive Director, Regina Butts of Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. writing a mini grant for $1,663.00 and the Play 60 grant. On Friday, April 19th, P.E. Coach Patrick Graney held a small ceremony to unveil each grade level physical fitness equipment. Go M.E. Lewis!
Elementary students receiving 10 pounds of food weekly.
Children living in poverty and hunger is a major obstacle. The Pantry Pack program is Golden Harvest Food Bank’s new pilot initiative in communities such as Hancock County to stop hunger. The program provides packs of food and hygiene items that are easily accessible. Each pack includes an educational sheet explaining proper nutrition and food preparation. For $8 per month students receives 40 pounds per week. Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. and their partners are making this possible for twenty-three students in our community. Publix and CIS thank you for your $70.00 donation. Every dollar makes a diffidence.
On Monday, March 26th, Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. braved the cold to support the M.E. Lewis Elementary School Bear Friday Literacy Recharge and the Kick-off for Accelerated Reader 2018.
The purpose of these program were to remind students on the importance of reading, to motivate them to continue to read , encourage them to do well on the Georgia Milestone testing that they will embark upon when they return from spring. But most of all, this event was to announce the Big Bike give-way to the girl and the boy who earns the most point by reading books on and/or above their reading level. Please stay tune in May, for the FINAL results !! Thank you for your attendance this morning and your donation to purchase a bike and helmet.
For those who wish to donate it looks like we will need some 22, 24 and 26 inch bikes. Please have your purchase done and delivered by May 5th.
Read Across America in Hancock County
Mrs. Teresa Kell from United Insurance -Kemper Cares Program presented Ms. Regina Butts a check for $250 to support the literacy and health initiatives of Family Connection-Communities In Schools.
Students will benefits from this donations by receiving additional school supplies and support for Georgia Milestone testing and English and Language for the middle and elementary school students. Mrs. Kell has support this organization providing and packing school weekend pantry packs and school supplies. Many thanks to Kemper Cares for there donation.
Read Across America in Hancock County
Mr. Zack Taylor, local Manager of Georgia Power presented Ms. Regina Butts, Executive Director of Family Connection-Communities In School of Hancock County, Inc. with a $300.00 donation to support the work of our organization.
Family Connection- Communities in Schools of Hancock County, Inc. is the only non-profit organization in the community that has business standards and registered with Secretary of State that provides case management services to identified students who are in need of various support systems, such as food, school supplies, clothing, tutoring, behavior management, parent engagement, Ameri-Corp tutor and academic success.
Many thanks to Georgia Power for your donation and we welcome Mr. Zack Taylor to our community.
Bear Friday Literacy Kick-Off
On Wednesday, November 1st Family Connection-Communties and Schools of Hancock County and partners held a literacy kick-off for Kindergarten students at the M.E. Lewis Elementary School. This Project is called “Bear Friday“. The project is designed to engage parents and students to in a reading activity over the weekend. Each Kindergarten student will receive a teddy bear, a book and book bag to carry home each Friday for their parents, siblings or friends to read to them. This project is design to increase students vocabulary and reading proficiency. There were special guest who attended to cheer the Kindergartener on to be great readers, our special guest was SKYE from Paw Patrol, Minnie Mouse and the Cat in the Hat. Many thanks to all our donors for supporting this effort to get and keep our early learners reading.
Balloon release in observance of Domestic Violence in Hancock County
Georgia Pre-K Week- Mrs. Annie Ingram, Board Education Chair reading at PreK meeting.
The Choice Bus
The Choice Bus takes students through a 25-minute interactive presentation designed to show the relevancy of education to career choices and lifetime earning potential. Midway through the presentation, a full scale replica of a prison cell is revealed. It’s a powerful demonstration of how education—and the lack of education—is connected to making good or bad choices. During the
presentation, The Choice Bus staff leads students in discussions about the importance of education, choosing friends wisely, avoiding gangs, being respectful to others and having a career interest.
Students learn several eye-opening facts about education, that a good education leads to a lifetime of opportunities and a lack of education will likely lead to a lifetime of despair and hardship.
The Choice Bus message is powerful!!!! The Hancock County School District enjoyed two full days for the middle and high school interaction on Choice Bus. This event was coordinated by Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County and the Hancock County School district staff members.
Annual Back to School Give Away
Held on July 29th. Nearly 500 families served. School started August 1st. All made possible by sponsors, donors and volunteers.
Executive Director and Early Head Start Center Manager – Mrs. Vernell Smith, attended a two day Summit Early Literacy at Georgia College State University. Governor and First Lady Nathan and Sandra Deal were guests for the ending luncheon. The Literacy Center was named in honor of First Lady Sandra Deal.
Students at Summer camp who read the most books were awarded $10 for there participation. Summer reading program sponsored Family Connection-Communities In School of Hancock County Inc.
Congratulations to Ms. Fatima’s class – M.E. Lewis Lexlie Winners for 2017.
Ferst Foundation Early Childhood Literacy Program
Regina Butts, Executive Director present Ferst Foundation with a check for $1700 to support the Ferst Foundation Early Childhood Literacy Program to support students in Hancock County to keep them reading. Ferst Foundation Childhood Literacy is a program that send books to children ages birth to 5. Pictured: Regina Butts, Executive Director and Glenda Cofer, Ferst Foundation Literacy of Morgan County.
Snack Bags
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. and partners presented third and fourth at the M.E. Lewis snack bags that contains a 100% juice box, cereal bar and sunchips as a way to get that extra energy boost to continue to do well on the Georgia Milestone test.
Site Coordinator, Terrell Reid and Mentor Mr. Calvin Wilson delivered bags to all 3rd and 4th grade students. Recharges will be distributed to all 8th graders and the entire high school later next week.
Dr. Seuss Birthday Celebration
WJBF Channel 6 in Augusta, Ga. donates books to Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock Co.Inc. in effort to support the the strategy of making sure that all students in third grade are proficient readers. Pictured: Ms. Helen Johnson of WJBF Channel 6 posed with books donated to Executive Director of Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County, Inc. Books were collected during a book drop in Augusta, Ga. along with support from Bridgestone.
Read Across America Proclamation signing with local officials. Pictures- Dr Charles Culver, Superintendent of School, Mayor William Evans, and County Commission Chair-lady- Sistie Hudson. Students from the M.E. Lewis Elementary School and Hancock Central Middle School were present during the proclamation signing. Also, three students from the Middle School visited the M.E. Lewis Elementary School to read the Kindergarten class. Also, there were local officials, pastor’s, and community representatives were present to read a story to the entire M.E. Lewis Elementary School.
Odessay Ware Students
Hancock Central Middle School Mentor and Mentee Holiday celebration.
Mentors are Calvin Wilson, Dr. Patricia Bell and Kenneth Taylor.
School Nutrition
On Tuesday, December 6th, twenty five elementary, middle and high school students from Hancock County attending a School nutrition sample of chicken from various vendor. The gist of the chicken tasting adventure were to get an honest opinion on what flavor or dish of chicken students would like to see served in their school cafeteria. This event was hosted by Mr. Linton Ingram, School Nutritionist. Family Connection-Communities in Schools Executive Director chaperone and tasted chicken along with the students. The chicken sampling took place at the Perry Art Center in Perry, Ga.
Pine Cone craft project
Arts and Crafts instructors Mrs. Bernestine Harden and Family Connection-Communities In School of Hancock County ED taught an after-school Pine Cone craft project. The project was to make a Christmas Tree and decorate it using ribbons and beads. Students in the class enjoyed their project.
21st Century Arts and Crafts Project
Winners Amari Winkfield and Jashera Fluellen were winners of the arts and crafts edible arrangement drawing. The edible arrangements were completed by students in the 21st Century Arts and Craft class taught by Mrs. Bernestine Harden and Ms. Regina Butts. Instructors engaged students in a lifelong activity of making floral arrangements using simple materials that could possible be a money making adventure.
Pictures include snap shots of Middle School 21st Century students attending an arts and crafts class to make table decoration using natures own pine cones and simple embellishment. Also shown are photos of the edible arrangement session. Students completed 14 turkeys that will be displayed at local nursing home facilitate as dining room table center pieces for the Thanksgiving Holiday. These students not only learned a simple project, but they also learned how important it is share with others, especially those who are home bound.
Winter Warm-up/Coat Drive sponsored by Family Connection- Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Victory Baptist Church and Amerigroup of Georgia. This event was held on Saturday, November 12th. Amerigroup of Georgia provided hats, mittens and gloves to all that attended. Amerigroup served Krispy Kreme Donuts and Cocoa bar for refreshment.
Many thanks to Pierce Memorial, Victory Baptist Church, Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Bernestine Harden, and the many volunteers who donated coats and assisted in this event. Special thanks to Kalmar Williams, a resident of Hancock County who is attending GCSU.
Students and Community Partners participate in one hour information session in reference to Domestic Violence. October is National Domestic Violence Month.
Representative Mack Jackson reading to the children at Hancock County Pre-K on October 5th. While observing National PreK Week for Georgia
Family Connection- Communities In Schools of Hancock County Partners with Summer Camps
2nd graders at M.E. Lewis Elementary School checking out the books that were donated by WJBF and other partners in the Augusta, Ga. area. Thanks for supporting Hancock County Schools!
Family Connection – Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. Executive Director – Regina Butts attended Dr. Seuss fund-raiser in Putnam County. Ms.Butts participated in the one mile fun run. After, the fun the crowd enter Putnam County Primary School for Dr. Seuss games, face painting, cake walk, and information booths. Many thanks to Annie Ingram and Agnes Griffith for coming to observe. This was event was sponsored by volunteers of Ferst Foundation to keep children from birth to five reading age appropriate books that are mailed to their homes on a monthly bases.
On March 7th, Ms. Helen B. Johnson, Account Manager and Mr. Ed Bloodworth, Weather forecaster for Good Morning Augusta of WJBF News Channel 6 in Augusta, Ga. presented Family Connection- Communities in Schools of Hancock County Inc. Executive Director Ms. Regina Butts with over 150 children books from a local book drive sponsored by WJBF. These books will be shared with the Hancock County Early Head Start program along with the M.E.Lewis Elementary school. These books are perfect timing because of the “Get Georgia Read” cohort initiative by 2020 all Georgia students will be on grade level by third grade.
Thanks to a private donor Family Connection/Communities In School of Hancock County was able to partner with Helping Hands of Hancock County, the Department of Family and Children Services and Sandy’s IGA to provide 125 free turkeys to needy families throughout the County. We would like to thank all who made this possible.
Back to School Supply give away held on Aug 1, 2015
Presentation of Check to Hancock County Family Connection
Back to school supply give away
Executive Directors Teresa Carter Burke County, Laurie Cook, Richmond County, Carol Lewis, President of CIS Georgia and Regina Butts of Hancock County attended the Georgia Chamber Power Lunch in Augusta, Georgia on June 30th. Executive Directors from Communities In Schools were able to network local business and agencies on economic development.
Site Coordinator and Executive Director recognize teachers at M.E. Lewis Elementary School. May 4-7 is National Teacher’s Week. Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County salutes all the teacher’s in the Hancock County School District.
21st Century Students in Culinary Arts class display one of there many project entitled “Brownies in a jar”.
Principle Jones with CIS Students
Sparta Cleanup Day
Coat Giveaway
Display of student work of the year
Family Connection Executive Director and a student Merecedes attends a college focus banquet on medicine sponsored by Representative Mack Jack. Mercedes poses with Representative Mack Jack
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County Executive Director attends a conference of teen dating with two local parents and students. Conference was sponsored by Georgia Legal Services Program of Macon, Ga. Special guest speaker was Judge Glenda Hatchett. Theme was ” Secret and Stilettos”
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. attended a special ceremony to support Literacy during the month of March will First Lady Governor Deal and Dr. Seuss.
Literacy Program
Devonta’s Spotlight
Culinary Arts
FC/CIS Board and Staff with National Accreditation Certificate
Family Connection-Communties In Schools of Hancock County is presented a check for $250.00 from Georgia Power. Check was presented by Mrs. LaTuyna Goodwin, of Georgia Power. Present was Allen Haywood, LaTunya Goodwin, Regina Butts, Gary Hill, Aketi Mayweather and Willie Mae Hurse.
Hancock County Family Connection- Communities Schools Holiday Back-Pack giveaway sponsored by The Connection Church of Jonesboro, Ga. Local CIS students receives back packs filled with goodies and school supplies for the Christmas Holidays.
The slogan of the week contest was held during red ribbon week October 27 – 31 at M. E. Lewis Elementary School.
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VISTA volunteer reads ” Three Little Pumpkins” dressed in their witches hat for the Fall season at Head Start.
Family Connection-Community In School of Hancock County Fall Movie and Skating Saturday was well attended.
5th Annual Labor Day Community Picnic
Live Healthy Hancock Biggest Loser Photos
Community Garden at the Housing Authority
Reading Across America
Summer Camp 2013
Downtown Restoration
Toy Drive 2023
Get Georgia Reading Summit
Coat Drive 2023
Apple Crunch Day is a celebration of Georgia Apples
Electric Truck Presentation
Hancock County Summer Camp
Elementary School highest AR readers from Kindergarten thru 5th grade receives a FREE bike and helmet donated by community partners, local organizations, and personal donation. Thank you donor’s for supporting our earlier readers.
On Saturday, April 15th Family Connection-Communities In School of Hancock County, Inc. attend the Knights of Columbus Annual Charity Breakfast on Lake Oconee. These years the Knights of Columbus donated over $4,000 to Family Connection-Communities In School of Hancock to support the Ferst Readers program and Communities In Schools hygiene closet and weekly backpack program. Mr. Linton Ingram, Site Coordinator was on hand to share the importance and work Communities In School in Hancock County.
Our nearly developed Hygiene Closet” We Care Closet” serves all students in the Hancock County School district in need of hygiene products such as toothbrush, toothpaste, hair products and combs, feminine pads, and deodorant, etc. If you are interested in donating to our closet, please contact us. Also, funds will be used to continue our Ferst Readers program that provides FREE books in the home of children birth to age 5.
Pinwheel for Child Abuse Month
Clinic
Donations
Bear Friday
Red Ribbon week was observed the last week of October to help students be aware and say no to drugs.
Family Connection- Communities in Schools of Hancock County received a mini grant from Washington EMC to implement a Hygiene Closet to provide feminine pads, deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste and other hygiene products to students in the Hancock County School District who may be in need of services. Grand opening was held on October 20th at the M. E. Lewis Elementary School.
Pre-K
Apple Crunch is a celebration of Georgia Apples. The Georgia Department of Education School Nutrition Program and Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County partners with the Georgia Department of Agriculture in celebrating apples in Georgia and to promote healthy eating. Apples are a part of the Georgia Harvest of Month initiative recognized the entire month of September.
Therefore, Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County sponsored this event along with the Hancock County School Nutrition Director, Mrs. Calandra Jones to join in on the Statewide celebration of apples by crunching into local grown apples at 12:00 noon on Friday, September 20th. This collective crunch encourages healthy eating and supports farms to school initiative throughout Georgia.
As Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County. Inc, Director Ms. Regina Butts partner with our local grocery store IGA to provide apples to businesses, law enforcement, daycare center, County Courthouse and other agencies to celebrate and encourage healthy eating. An apple a day keeps the Doctor away. Many thanks to all our supporters for submitting their pictures.
Friday, September 30, 2022
Local citizens of Hancock County participated in the annual Community Health Fair held on Saturday, June 18th in conjunction with a 3K Faith Fun Walk sponsored by Hancock County Health Improvement partnership. Several churches and their pastors attended and participated.
Summer Camp Pictures
Accelerated Reader Program
Hancock County Sheriff Department and Family Connection-Communities In School o Hancock County partner together for the 22nd Annual DEA Prescription Drug Take Back Day 2022. This event was held on Saturday, April 30th at the CJE Event Center in Devereaux, Ga. LT. Marlo Primus and Ms. Regina Butts of Family Connection- Communities In Schools was on hand to collect and explain the importance of DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. This year Hancock County collected over 20 pounds of prescription drugs removed from homes in Hancock County.
DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day reflects DEA’s commitment to Americans’ safety and health, encouraging the public to remove unneeded medications from their homes as a measure of preventing medication misuse and opioid addiction from ever starting.
DEA is committed to making our communities safer and healthier, and we can do this by reducing overdoses and overdose deaths. While the community does its part to turn in unneeded medications and remove them from potential harm, we are doing our part to further reduce drug-related violence
M.E. Lewis Publishing Party
4th Graders at M. E. Lewis Elementary School participated in the Annual Publishing Party, where they had an opportunity to share their writings. These students have worked hard all year long writing, editing and writing for this day. The stories shared by the 4th grades students was well planned and organized. These are our future author, illustrators, and editors. Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County Inc. partner with staff at M.E. Lewis Elementary School to provide refreshments for the party.
Family Connection-Communities In Schools provided the guest speaker who is an author, publisher and playwriter. Mrs. Kreceda Tyler share her experiences as author and encourage all students who has a desire to be author to do so. She share a video of an eleven year old who has published her first book. Mrs. Tyler shared that the sky in the limit. Mrs. Tyler is from Southwest Georgia. Kreceda Tyler is a lover of of written words which explains why she is currently an author, a screenwriter, and film producer for BOSS Magnet Media.
Most recently her endeavors led her to a position as an Acquisition Editor for Black Odyssey Media Publication, to help amplify black writers voices in niche genres within the traditional publishing area. When she’s not writing, creating films, or helping other author’s writing their dream come true, she can be found in Augusta, Ga jamming to the 90;s music, reading and spending time with her husband and three children.
Hancock Central Middle and High Observe April as Alcohol Awareness Month
Bear Friday and Kickoff for Read Across America
Mayor Allen Haywood signing a proclamation.
E. Lewis Kindergarten students welcome a special visitor on Friday, January 21st at their Bear Friday event. Bear Friday is an event designed to provide Kindergarten students with a book, a bag, and a bear. Each Kindergarten student received their own personal teddy bear to take home with a book for their parent/guardian to read to them and discuss what was just Read.
Ms. Regina Butts, Executive Director of Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. strives daily to partner with schools and other organization to make sure students in our community has access to books and to learn how to read. So, be on the lookout for the Cat in Hat at the end of February as we kick off Read Across America Literacy Spirit Week.
Vaccination Awareness High School Presentation
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Vaccination outreach project. Go get vaccinated.
On Tuesday, November 10th Family Connection- Communities In Schools of Hancock County Inc, Community Healthcare Systems, Inc, REACH and Hancock County Health Department presented the Hancock County School District with a learning event to encourage teens and to become fully vaccinate whether flu or COVID19. Mrs. Darice Oppong and Mrs. Camesha Grant, Outreach Specialist shared with 9th thru 12th grade students.
This learning event allow Family Connection- Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. to share Fair Count grant dollars by purchasing hand sanitizer, masks and other PPE equipment along with vaccination information in gift bags provided by UGA- Food Talk and HHIP.
This vaccine initiative will be at CJE in Deveraux, Ga. on December 4th where non-vaccinated can stop by the Holiday Festival to become vaccinated. There will live entertainment, holiday shopping, giveaways, and fun for the children.
Jersey Day, hero day, hat day @ M.E. Lewis Elementary for Red Ribbon Week.
Read for the record
Local citizen stop by to dispose of Prescription drug during the National Prescription drug Take Back Day.
National Domestic Violence Awareness
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County engage the Community in Georgia statewide- Apple Crunch Day. Over 900 students in the school district participated with 2 Daycare Centers sending in photos and 10 business and organization participating locally.
The Georgia Department of Education School Nutrition Program and Georgia Department of Agriculture celebrates the production of apples in Georgia. What is the Georgia Apple Crunch 4 Lunch? It is Georgia’s statewide celebration of APPLES by crunching into locally grown apples at 12:00 noon on Friday, September 24, 2021. This collective crunch encourages healthy eating and supports farm to school initiatives throughout Georgia.
Back to School and More
Pinwheel in Hancock
Home Reading pilot program. Reading Coach raising fresh eggs and exposing students to life creation.
Read Across America – Dr. Seuss
Family Connection- Communities in Schools of Hancock County, Inc. Continues to Address Early Literacy needs in the Community. On December 10, 2020 Georgia Family Connection was awarded $1725 in support of the Get Georgia Reading Home Pilot project. Because of COVID 19 pandemic Hancock County students has been 100% virtual since March of 2020.
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock Co. Inc, partner with the Apostolic Faith Church and NestFresh Cage Free Egg for their donation of over 900 dozen of eggs. During the give away Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock Co. added a packet of GenRx prescription drug information and free facial mask donated by Ford Motor Company.
Ms. Tip and Hancock County DFACS sharing with community Santa Cruising Toy Drive Give away on December 17th. Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock Inc. provide snack bags for the event.
AmeriCorp Member Sends Home a Literacy Holiday Project
Mrs. Bernestine Harden, Americorp Member and a volunteer, are preparing gifts for her case managed students that are a part of Family Connection -Communities In Schools of Hancock County to construct a gingerbread house or train during the Christmas Break.
Students will be encouraged to use their reading skills to following directions and comprehend them in order to have a successful project. Students will send a picture of the finished product . Literacy engagement is one of the strategies of Family Connection- Communities In Schools of Hancock County, according to Executive Director Ms. Regina Butts
Holiday Health and Prescription Drug information sharing 2020
Flu fighter outreach held at the Reynolds Brothers Property in Springfield
JHA for the Read for the Record event
Hancock Pink pumpkin entry with Community Health Care System
Apple Crunch Day 2020
Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock Co. Spent Thursday, September 24th recognizing essential workers at Community Health Care System staff with lunch. Our collaborative partners and citizens of Hancock County appreciate your hard work, dedication and loyalty to serve during this time. Continue to serve and be safe. Pictured Mr. Terrell Reid, Site Coordinator CIS. Dr. Kimberly Harrison, CHCS, and Ms. Regina Butts, Executive Director for Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock.
Kicking off 2020 Apple Crunch 4 Lunch event in Hancock County.
Family Connection-CIS Executive Director participates in the Department of Health Flu Fighters campaign.
On Tuesday, August 25th Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County, Inc. provided lunch to the Hancock County Health Department staff for the awesome work they are doing during COVID-19. These hardworking ladies risk their lives to saves lives by providing testing at our local Health Department. We appreciate you and your hard work.
Senior bags with PPE and GenRx items
Hancock County Back to School Supply and Resource Giveaway 2020
Resilient Middle Georgia is an initiative of Community Partnership, has launched a new effort to encourage community members to meet and support neighbors. The first portion of this effort is a specialized sticky note that neighbors can post on each other’s doors with encouraging notes and offers of connection. Hancock County received over 800 special sticky notes and playdough that was placed in students bookbags during the Back to School Supply giveaway on July 29-31st.
“If I I Can Help Somebody” A few weeks ago when this awful pandemic called COVID19 came about, my first instinct was how was I going to reach my case manage students and what I could do to encourage them and the community while staying at home. Ms. Butts, Executive Director suggested several things to do to stay connected with my students, such as calling them, mailing students worksheets and activities, sending friendly cards to the nursing home and making calls to the elderly. I did those things, but I wanted to do something from MY Heart, something that students as well as adults could value and use during this pandemic. I need self satisfaction… a feeling that made me feel ” If I can just help save one life then my work would not be in vain”. So, I decided that I would make face protection masks and donate them to worthy cause and our first res-ponders. I have made and donated over 100 masks. Today, I am especially working on the 16 students on my caseload mask, and plan on sending them to them through the mail. I must add… once the word got out that I was making masks… the demand became huge. I’m striving daily to meet the demand one day at time. I am truly grateful that God has given me a talent that is worthy of HIS PEOPLE to Save Lives.
Mrs. Bernestine Harden, Ameri-Corp Member assisting Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc.
2020 Read Across America event held on March 2nd
Special guest Chase and Sky from the Paw Patrol.
On Friday, January 31st, M. E. Lewis Elementary School Kindergarten staff Kicked off their Bear Friday Event being sponsored by Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County. This event is designed for parent engagement, where a parent or an adult read with their child over the weekend. Each Kindergarten student received a bear, a book and a bag. Each Friday, these students will get to take home their personal bear with a new a book to be read to them over the weekend. Thanks Kindergarten Students and Staff.
SBHC tour in Atlanta, Ga.
Pictured left to right (Manager of the SBHC in Atlanta, Mrs. Sheanette Drake, Ms. Regina Butts, Dr. Veda Johnson-Emory)
Jonesboro Connection Church makes their 6th visit to Hancock County to support Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. Pastor Lance Sumner and the Jonesboro Connection Church brought over 90 book-bags filled with Christmas goodies for students in Hancock County. They also played games, told the Christmas story and prepared a delicious lunch for all families and friends that were in attendance.
Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County, Inc. celebrated the dedication of their second Little Library at the New Beulah Baptist Church where Rev. Carl S. Lott serves as Pastor. We encourage children and families in this area to stop by New Beulah and bring a book and Take a Book. Many thanks to Mattie West and Sheanette Drake for coordinating this effort.
Hancock County newest Little Library ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony held on Sunday November 10th at the New Beulah Baptist Church where Rev.Carl S. Lott serves as Pastor. Little Libraries of Hancock County is being made possible through the Literacy efforts of Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County and partners.
Red Ribbon poster contest winners at M.E. Lewis Elementary School. Prize donation was given on the behalf of Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County.
Prescription Drug Take Back and Trunk-a-Treat was held on Sunday, October 27, 2019. Hancock County was able to take back a little over 5 lbs of prescription drugs that will be disposed of properly. Many thanks to Mrs. Bernestine Harden, Mr. Terrell Reid, Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County Staff and Sgt. Marlin Primus, from the Hancock County Sheriffs Department.
Celebrating Red Ribbon Week in Hancock County.
On Wednesday, October 23rd the Hancock County Community observed Breast Cancer Awareness Day in Sparta/Hancock County. Asked all citizen to wear pink to support those who fought, still fighting and caregivers for their service.
Head Start Lunch
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Apple Crunch Day 2019. Hear the crunch all over Hancock County!
Back to School Supply Drive – Saturday, August 3, 2019
Prescription Drugs and Alcohol usage among teens
On Thursday, July 25th Linc Boyer of Milledgeville, Ga. Police Department was special guest to share information on Prescription Drugs and Alcohol usage among teens. This program was sponsored by Ms. Regina Butts, Executive Director of Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County along with the GenRX grant that covers prescriptions Drugs.
Free Little Library
Second Beulah Baptist Church is next in line for Free Little Library to be placed on site at the church. Mrs. Ollie Shinsholster received books from Webster Pharmacy from a previous book drive to stock the newly install library in the Beulah Community, to provide additional reading materials and resources to parents and children in rural areas of Hancock County. Pictured (Will Webster of Webster Pharmacy, and Ollie Shinsholster of Second Beulah Member.)
Bike Giveaway
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County participated in the annual M.E. Lewis Elementary School awards program. With the assistance of donors of bikes and funds. We were able to award grades K-5th students who were the Top Accelerated Readers Winners for the 2018-2019 school year. Mr. Terrell Reid, Site Coordinator and Ms. Regina Butts were available to make presentation on the behalf of our donors.
Sport Balls bags
Family Connection/CIS is providing Sport Balls bags to the three local camps this summer to add physical activity to all students enrolled in Summer Camp. Summer camps are being held in the Deveraux, Springfield and Sparta areas. Students are engaged in varies learning activities to continue their learning by reading thirty minutes each day and physical activities daily.
Summer Camp 2019 in Deveraux Ga.
Farm to School Summit
On June 6-7, the Seventh Georgia Farm to School and Early Care and Education Summit was hosted at Helm College in Macon, Ga. The farm t early care and education (farm to ECE) and farm to school movement connects early care providers, schools, and local farms in an efforts to serve healthy meals and snacks, improve student nutrition, and increase farm and gardening education opportunities.
This year’s Summit welcomes early care providers and staff, teacher, school nutrition staff, students, parents , farmers, distributors and others in learning more about Georgia’s farm to ECE and farm to school community. Attending this year’s summit in Macon, Ga. was Ms. Regina Butts, Family Connection-Communities In School of Hancock County, Inc. Executive Director, Mr. Linton Ingram, Hancock County -School District Food Nutrition Manager and Mrs. Regina J. Jackson, HealthMPower Community Advocate.
Prescription Drug take back day 2019 in Hancock County
On April 27th, The Hancock County Sheriff Office and Sheriff Terrell Primus and staff, and the many community partners with Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. to participate in 2019 -DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. The National Prescription Drug Take Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications. Many thanks to all who participate in the event to make our community a little safer. Our next prescription Take Back Day will be held in the month of October.
April National Child Abuse Prevention Month Pinwheels Ceremony
In 1983, President Reagan first designated April as Child Abuse Prevention Month stating, “Prevention of abuse requires that neighborhoods and communities be attentive to the problems of families in their midst and be willing to help when help is needed. It requires the active concern of educational, medical, mental health, law enforcement, and social service professionals, and the efforts of volunteers and private citizens.”
On Wednesday, April 24th the Hancock County Department of Family Children Services and several other’s partners observed April as National Child Abuse Month. A very short program was presented and several partners planted Blue and Silver Pinwheels at the Hancock County Youth Opportunity Center after the proclamation signing done by Mayor William Evans and Chairperson Helen Sisite Hudson. There were twelve pinwheels planted for this community. Much has been done since to raise awareness. Nationwide efforts are currently underway to improve child safety and prevent child maltreatment-related fatalities.
(pictured left to right – Tarneshia Maddox-Guest from Baldwin Task Force, Vernell Smith-Hancock County Head Start, Helen”Sistie” Hudson- Chair-lady Hancock County Board of Commissioners, Olivette Long- Department of Family Children Service Supervisor and Staff, Johnnie Wilson- Ocmulgee District Attorney’s Office, Mattie West-HIPP member, Annie Ingram-Chair-lady-Hancock County Board of Education, Shirley Tucker-Manager Hancock County Health Department, Alma Brown-HIPP member, William Evans-Mayor of the City of Sparta, Allen Haywood-Mayor Pro-Tem, Terrell Primus- Sheriff Hancock County, many more partners and community representatives where present at this event were not photographed).
Bullying Tour sponsored by: Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. Strengthening your minds and bodies – Presenter Willie Rain bends iron rod to display that inner strength can be found in each of us.
Garden Hydroponics at M.E. Lewis Elementary School
2019 National Read Across America Week Observed
Veterans Reading Day
Toys for Tots
On December 21st and 22nd Hancock County received an abundance of toys from the Marine Corp Toys for Tots in Augusta, Ga. and local donations. Many families would not have had toys if these generous donors and Toys for Tots was not providing. Many thanks to our Site Coordinator, Mr. Terrell Reid, Head Start Family Advocates, Mrs. Delois Bell and Mr. Gary Hill , also the Education Manager Mrs. Vernell Smith for making sure a few days before Christmas that children and families had food to eat and their children had something under the tree. Ms. Regina Butts, Executive Director of Family Connection and Communities and Schools of Hancock County, Inc. has been in partnership with Toys for Tots for over 4 years now. We are just grateful for the partnership.
Holiday Book Bags
On December 8th, over 30 out of town guest visited Hancock County to bring over 90 Holiday Book bags to families and children in Hancock County. The Connection Church of Jonesboro, Ga. has adopted Hancock County for five (5) years to spread a little Christmas cheer, love and support. Under the leadership of their Pastor- Lance Sumner this magnificent church congregation has so graciously providing additional support to our Community. We thank you Connection Church of Jonesboro, Ga. Ms. Regina Butts, Executive Director of Family Connection and Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. do appreciate the loyalty and dedication of this church so many miles of away to support our children and families.
Thanksgiving Cheer
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County spread some Thanksgiving cheer with local families through the Department of Juvenile Justice. Thru local donations and financial contributions from staff members, we were able to share with three families this holiday season. Donations was given from SWAH fitness dancers.
“Hancock County Wake Up Read”
On Wednesday, October 18th Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. carried literacy and health to the streets of Mayfield, Ga. Our strategy team “Hancock County Wake Up Read” visited the Mayfield Community for a ribbon cutting ceremony, literacy and health fun-day. Over thirty -five people attended this grand event. This event kicked off the first of little lending libraries to be place within in Hancock County. Regina Butts, ED for Family Connection-CIS of Hancock County encourages students and parent to take advantage of this opportunity to visit the lending libraries to get books for themselves and children within their household. Many thanks for all our helpers and IGA for donating a gift card.
Attendance Awareness Month
September 2018
Children can’t learn if they aren’t in school—and we all have an important role to play in supporting student attendance. Check out the wide array of resources offered by Attendance Works and begin working with your local partners to address chronic absenteeism and increase attendance for children in your community. Get Started
Ferst Reader Summit
On Friday, August 24th, Regina Butts, Executive Director for Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County attended the Annual Ferst Reader Summit in Madison, Ga. Regina serves as CAT team leader for Hancock County where we have been sending books to students from birth to age 5 since 1999. Ferst Foundation is a literacy program that provides Free books to students and parent guide monthly. Below Butts, was a winner of drawing for Free books.
Wake Up and Read Summer Camp Bike winner for the most books read
M.E. Lewis Ribbon Cutting for new Reading lab
On Saturday, July 28th over 400 children and parents attended the Annual Back to School Supply, Literacy and Health Awareness Day event. Students were able to pick up free school supplies and parents were able to pickup free literature from HealthMPowers, Fort Valley State University EFNEP, UGA- Food Talk, HHIPP, Hancock County DFACS, Sparta Lions Club, Delta Sorority, Hancock County Health Department, Hospice, Community Health Care System provided free school supplies, and health checks, FREE story books, free book bags, parent engagement sign-up, Free haircuts by Nate, Peppie and Julius Watkins. Also, a Free meal sponsored by Men on a Mission. Parents were also given an opportunity select school uniforms. Many thanks to all our sponsors, vendors, parents and children, Hancock County School Board and Staff, John Hancock Academy and staff of Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County Board and Staff.
Butts Attends Grade-Level Reading Week in Philadelphia
During the week of July 24-27, Regina Butts, Executive Director of Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County and Trelaine Neville, Care source Out Reach Coordinator, attended GLR Week 2018 in Philadelphia. The week feature exciting activities focused on accelerating the learning from last year’s event in Denver while strengthening connections to grade-level reading champions nationwide and beyond.
Hancock County received recognition of your community achievement as a 2018 Bright Spotlight with the M.E. Lewis featured story “Read, Read to Succeed” where Butts and Principal Dr. Norman Hart implement various reading strategies and events to engage parents and to motivate students from K-5 to read more and to understand the importance of reading. Also, Hancock County was recognized for Council Champion, our partner Care Source who provided resources and funding to support Bear Friday Project, Dr. Seuss events and many other school and community related reading events.
Many thanks to our school district staff, parents, children, community stakeholders, bushiness for your commitment to the Campaign for Grade-Level Reading in Hancock County. (pictured Regina Butts, Marcell Johnson and Trealine Neville.)
Reading Summer at summer camp in Sparta Ga.
On June 20th, 30 students from the Springfield Camp attended a Georgia College State University in Milledgeville, Ga for a Reading Rally with special guest Malcolm Mitchell of the New England Patriots and the 2018 Super Bowl Champion wide receiver. Mitchell entered the University of Georgia on a Junior High reading level. Malcolm shared his story on how important it is read. Mitchell is an author and advocate for reading. Each student who attendance received a copy of Malcolm book entitled :The Magic Hat” This activity the Sandra Dunagan Deal Center of Early Language and Literacy at Georgia College was the sponsor. Many thanks to those supporter who donated funds for our students to eat and dine on the Georgia College Max cafeteria. The student really enjoyed their meal.
Foster Grandparents reading to students and assisting them with literacy skill handouts
Wake Up Read School District Reading Specialist reading to summer campers
EMC Grant Donation for P.E equipment purchased.
Child abuse pinwheel ceremony done with collaborative partners. Great Day in Hancock County!
Thanks for the Donation!
On Sunday, April 22, 2018 Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. Executive Director Regina Butts and the Principal of the M.E. Lewis Elementary attended the Knight of Columbus Council #13808 Christ Our King & Savior Catholic Church located on Lake Oconee Parkway in Greensboro, Ga.
Ferst Foundation of Hancock County received a check for $1800.00 and Communities In Schools in the amount of $1700.00 made possible on the behalf of the philanthropic work of the Knights of Columbus Council #13808. This council is comprised of over 180 officers and council members who have worked throughout the year to raise money for many local charities that support (Greene, Putnam, and Hancock Counties).
5th grade Playground Equipment.
M.E. Lewis receives new P.E equipment due to Executive Director, Regina Butts of Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. writing a mini grant for $1,663.00 and the Play 60 grant. On Friday, April 19th, P.E. Coach Patrick Graney held a small ceremony to unveil each grade level physical fitness equipment. Go M.E. Lewis!
Elementary students receiving 10 pounds of food weekly.
Children living in poverty and hunger is a major obstacle. The Pantry Pack program is Golden Harvest Food Bank’s new pilot initiative in communities such as Hancock County to stop hunger. The program provides packs of food and hygiene items that are easily accessible. Each pack includes an educational sheet explaining proper nutrition and food preparation. For $8 per month students receives 40 pounds per week. Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. and their partners are making this possible for twenty-three students in our community. Publix and CIS thank you for your $70.00 donation. Every dollar makes a diffidence.
On Monday, March 26th, Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. braved the cold to support the M.E. Lewis Elementary School Bear Friday Literacy Recharge and the Kick-off for Accelerated Reader 2018.
The purpose of these program were to remind students on the importance of reading, to motivate them to continue to read , encourage them to do well on the Georgia Milestone testing that they will embark upon when they return from spring. But most of all, this event was to announce the Big Bike give-way to the girl and the boy who earns the most point by reading books on and/or above their reading level. Please stay tune in May, for the FINAL results !! Thank you for your attendance this morning and your donation to purchase a bike and helmet.
For those who wish to donate it looks like we will need some 22, 24 and 26 inch bikes. Please have your purchase done and delivered by May 5th.
Read Across America in Hancock County
Mrs. Teresa Kell from United Insurance -Kemper Cares Program presented Ms. Regina Butts a check for $250 to support the literacy and health initiatives of Family Connection-Communities In Schools.
Students will benefits from this donations by receiving additional school supplies and support for Georgia Milestone testing and English and Language for the middle and elementary school students. Mrs. Kell has support this organization providing and packing school weekend pantry packs and school supplies. Many thanks to Kemper Cares for there donation.
Read Across America in Hancock County
Mr. Zack Taylor, local Manager of Georgia Power presented Ms. Regina Butts, Executive Director of Family Connection-Communities In School of Hancock County, Inc. with a $300.00 donation to support the work of our organization.
Family Connection- Communities in Schools of Hancock County, Inc. is the only non-profit organization in the community that has business standards and registered with Secretary of State that provides case management services to identified students who are in need of various support systems, such as food, school supplies, clothing, tutoring, behavior management, parent engagement, Ameri-Corp tutor and academic success.
Many thanks to Georgia Power for your donation and we welcome Mr. Zack Taylor to our community.
Bear Friday Literacy Kick-Off
On Wednesday, November 1st Family Connection-Communties and Schools of Hancock County and partners held a literacy kick-off for Kindergarten students at the M.E. Lewis Elementary School. This Project is called “Bear Friday“. The project is designed to engage parents and students to in a reading activity over the weekend. Each Kindergarten student will receive a teddy bear, a book and book bag to carry home each Friday for their parents, siblings or friends to read to them. This project is design to increase students vocabulary and reading proficiency. There were special guest who attended to cheer the Kindergartener on to be great readers, our special guest was SKYE from Paw Patrol, Minnie Mouse and the Cat in the Hat. Many thanks to all our donors for supporting this effort to get and keep our early learners reading.
Balloon release in observance of Domestic Violence in Hancock County
Georgia Pre-K Week- Mrs. Annie Ingram, Board Education Chair reading at PreK meeting.
The Choice Bus
The Choice Bus takes students through a 25-minute interactive presentation designed to show the relevancy of education to career choices and lifetime earning potential. Midway through the presentation, a full scale replica of a prison cell is revealed. It’s a powerful demonstration of how education—and the lack of education—is connected to making good or bad choices. During the
presentation, The Choice Bus staff leads students in discussions about the importance of education, choosing friends wisely, avoiding gangs, being respectful to others and having a career interest.
Students learn several eye-opening facts about education, that a good education leads to a lifetime of opportunities and a lack of education will likely lead to a lifetime of despair and hardship.
The Choice Bus message is powerful!!!! The Hancock County School District enjoyed two full days for the middle and high school interaction on Choice Bus. This event was coordinated by Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County and the Hancock County School district staff members.
Annual Back to School Give Away
Held on July 29th. Nearly 500 families served. School started August 1st. All made possible by sponsors, donors and volunteers.
Executive Director and Early Head Start Center Manager – Mrs. Vernell Smith, attended a two day Summit Early Literacy at Georgia College State University. Governor and First Lady Nathan and Sandra Deal were guests for the ending luncheon. The Literacy Center was named in honor of First Lady Sandra Deal.
Students at Summer camp who read the most books were awarded $10 for there participation. Summer reading program sponsored Family Connection-Communities In School of Hancock County Inc.
Congratulations to Ms. Fatima’s class – M.E. Lewis Lexlie Winners for 2017.
Ferst Foundation Early Childhood Literacy Program
Regina Butts, Executive Director present Ferst Foundation with a check for $1700 to support the Ferst Foundation Early Childhood Literacy Program to support students in Hancock County to keep them reading. Ferst Foundation Childhood Literacy is a program that send books to children ages birth to 5. Pictured: Regina Butts, Executive Director and Glenda Cofer, Ferst Foundation Literacy of Morgan County.
Snack Bags
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. and partners presented third and fourth at the M.E. Lewis snack bags that contains a 100% juice box, cereal bar and sunchips as a way to get that extra energy boost to continue to do well on the Georgia Milestone test.
Site Coordinator, Terrell Reid and Mentor Mr. Calvin Wilson delivered bags to all 3rd and 4th grade students. Recharges will be distributed to all 8th graders and the entire high school later next week.
Dr. Seuss Birthday Celebration
WJBF Channel 6 in Augusta, Ga. donates books to Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock Co.Inc. in effort to support the the strategy of making sure that all students in third grade are proficient readers. Pictured: Ms. Helen Johnson of WJBF Channel 6 posed with books donated to Executive Director of Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County, Inc. Books were collected during a book drop in Augusta, Ga. along with support from Bridgestone.
Read Across America Proclamation signing with local officials. Pictures- Dr Charles Culver, Superintendent of School, Mayor William Evans, and County Commission Chair-lady- Sistie Hudson. Students from the M.E. Lewis Elementary School and Hancock Central Middle School were present during the proclamation signing. Also, three students from the Middle School visited the M.E. Lewis Elementary School to read the Kindergarten class. Also, there were local officials, pastor’s, and community representatives were present to read a story to the entire M.E. Lewis Elementary School.
Odessay Ware Students
Hancock Central Middle School Mentor and Mentee Holiday celebration.
Mentors are Calvin Wilson, Dr. Patricia Bell and Kenneth Taylor.
School Nutrition
On Tuesday, December 6th, twenty five elementary, middle and high school students from Hancock County attending a School nutrition sample of chicken from various vendor. The gist of the chicken tasting adventure were to get an honest opinion on what flavor or dish of chicken students would like to see served in their school cafeteria. This event was hosted by Mr. Linton Ingram, School Nutritionist. Family Connection-Communities in Schools Executive Director chaperone and tasted chicken along with the students. The chicken sampling took place at the Perry Art Center in Perry, Ga.
Pine Cone craft project
Arts and Crafts instructors Mrs. Bernestine Harden and Family Connection-Communities In School of Hancock County ED taught an after-school Pine Cone craft project. The project was to make a Christmas Tree and decorate it using ribbons and beads. Students in the class enjoyed their project.
21st Century Arts and Crafts Project
Winners Amari Winkfield and Jashera Fluellen were winners of the arts and crafts edible arrangement drawing. The edible arrangements were completed by students in the 21st Century Arts and Craft class taught by Mrs. Bernestine Harden and Ms. Regina Butts. Instructors engaged students in a lifelong activity of making floral arrangements using simple materials that could possible be a money making adventure.
Pictures include snap shots of Middle School 21st Century students attending an arts and crafts class to make table decoration using natures own pine cones and simple embellishment. Also shown are photos of the edible arrangement session. Students completed 14 turkeys that will be displayed at local nursing home facilitate as dining room table center pieces for the Thanksgiving Holiday. These students not only learned a simple project, but they also learned how important it is share with others, especially those who are home bound.
Winter Warm-up/Coat Drive sponsored by Family Connection- Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Victory Baptist Church and Amerigroup of Georgia. This event was held on Saturday, November 12th. Amerigroup of Georgia provided hats, mittens and gloves to all that attended. Amerigroup served Krispy Kreme Donuts and Cocoa bar for refreshment.
Many thanks to Pierce Memorial, Victory Baptist Church, Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Bernestine Harden, and the many volunteers who donated coats and assisted in this event. Special thanks to Kalmar Williams, a resident of Hancock County who is attending GCSU.
Students and Community Partners participate in one hour information session in reference to Domestic Violence. October is National Domestic Violence Month.
Representative Mack Jackson reading to the children at Hancock County Pre-K on October 5th. While observing National PreK Week for Georgia
Family Connection- Communities In Schools of Hancock County Partners with Summer Camps
2nd graders at M.E. Lewis Elementary School checking out the books that were donated by WJBF and other partners in the Augusta, Ga. area. Thanks for supporting Hancock County Schools!
Family Connection – Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. Executive Director – Regina Butts attended Dr. Seuss fund-raiser in Putnam County. Ms.Butts participated in the one mile fun run. After, the fun the crowd enter Putnam County Primary School for Dr. Seuss games, face painting, cake walk, and information booths. Many thanks to Annie Ingram and Agnes Griffith for coming to observe. This was event was sponsored by volunteers of Ferst Foundation to keep children from birth to five reading age appropriate books that are mailed to their homes on a monthly bases.
On March 7th, Ms. Helen B. Johnson, Account Manager and Mr. Ed Bloodworth, Weather forecaster for Good Morning Augusta of WJBF News Channel 6 in Augusta, Ga. presented Family Connection- Communities in Schools of Hancock County Inc. Executive Director Ms. Regina Butts with over 150 children books from a local book drive sponsored by WJBF. These books will be shared with the Hancock County Early Head Start program along with the M.E.Lewis Elementary school. These books are perfect timing because of the “Get Georgia Read” cohort initiative by 2020 all Georgia students will be on grade level by third grade.
Thanks to a private donor Family Connection/Communities In School of Hancock County was able to partner with Helping Hands of Hancock County, the Department of Family and Children Services and Sandy’s IGA to provide 125 free turkeys to needy families throughout the County. We would like to thank all who made this possible.
Back to School Supply give away held on Aug 1, 2015
Presentation of Check to Hancock County Family Connection
Back to school supply give away
Executive Directors Teresa Carter Burke County, Laurie Cook, Richmond County, Carol Lewis, President of CIS Georgia and Regina Butts of Hancock County attended the Georgia Chamber Power Lunch in Augusta, Georgia on June 30th. Executive Directors from Communities In Schools were able to network local business and agencies on economic development.
Site Coordinator and Executive Director recognize teachers at M.E. Lewis Elementary School. May 4-7 is National Teacher’s Week. Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County salutes all the teacher’s in the Hancock County School District.
21st Century Students in Culinary Arts class display one of there many project entitled “Brownies in a jar”.
Principle Jones with CIS Students
Sparta Cleanup Day
Coat Giveaway
Display of student work of the year
Family Connection Executive Director and a student Merecedes attends a college focus banquet on medicine sponsored by Representative Mack Jack. Mercedes poses with Representative Mack Jack
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County Executive Director attends a conference of teen dating with two local parents and students. Conference was sponsored by Georgia Legal Services Program of Macon, Ga. Special guest speaker was Judge Glenda Hatchett. Theme was ” Secret and Stilettos”
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. attended a special ceremony to support Literacy during the month of March will First Lady Governor Deal and Dr. Seuss.
Literacy Program
Devonta’s Spotlight
Culinary Arts
FC/CIS Board and Staff with National Accreditation Certificate
Family Connection-Communties In Schools of Hancock County is presented a check for $250.00 from Georgia Power. Check was presented by Mrs. LaTuyna Goodwin, of Georgia Power. Present was Allen Haywood, LaTunya Goodwin, Regina Butts, Gary Hill, Aketi Mayweather and Willie Mae Hurse.
Hancock County Family Connection- Communities Schools Holiday Back-Pack giveaway sponsored by The Connection Church of Jonesboro, Ga. Local CIS students receives back packs filled with goodies and school supplies for the Christmas Holidays.
The slogan of the week contest was held during red ribbon week October 27 – 31 at M. E. Lewis Elementary School.
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VISTA volunteer reads ” Three Little Pumpkins” dressed in their witches hat for the Fall season at Head Start.
Family Connection-Community In School of Hancock County Fall Movie and Skating Saturday was well attended.
5th Annual Labor Day Community Picnic
Live Healthy Hancock Biggest Loser Photos
Community Garden at the Housing Authority
Reading Across America
Summer Camp 2013
Downtown Restoration
Family Connection- Communities in Schools of Hancock County received a mini grant from Washington EMC to implement a Hygiene Closet to provide feminine pads, deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste and other hygiene products to students in the Hancock County School District who may be in need of services. Grand opening was held on October 20th at the M. E. Lewis Elementary School.
Pre-K
Apple Crunch is a celebration of Georgia Apples. The Georgia Department of Education School Nutrition Program and Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County partners with the Georgia Department of Agriculture in celebrating apples in Georgia and to promote healthy eating. Apples are a part of the Georgia Harvest of Month initiative recognized the entire month of September.
Therefore, Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County sponsored this event along with the Hancock County School Nutrition Director, Mrs. Calandra Jones to join in on the Statewide celebration of apples by crunching into local grown apples at 12:00 noon on Friday, September 20th. This collective crunch encourages healthy eating and supports farms to school initiative throughout Georgia.
As Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County. Inc, Director Ms. Regina Butts partner with our local grocery store IGA to provide apples to businesses, law enforcement, daycare center, County Courthouse and other agencies to celebrate and encourage healthy eating. An apple a day keeps the Doctor away. Many thanks to all our supporters for submitting their pictures.
Friday, September 30, 2022
Local citizens of Hancock County participated in the annual Community Health Fair held on Saturday, June 18th in conjunction with a 3K Faith Fun Walk sponsored by Hancock County Health Improvement partnership. Several churches and their pastors attended and participated.
Summer Camp Pictures
Accelerated Reader Program
Hancock County Sheriff Department and Family Connection-Communities In School o Hancock County partner together for the 22nd Annual DEA Prescription Drug Take Back Day 2022. This event was held on Saturday, April 30th at the CJE Event Center in Devereaux, Ga. LT. Marlo Primus and Ms. Regina Butts of Family Connection- Communities In Schools was on hand to collect and explain the importance of DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. This year Hancock County collected over 20 pounds of prescription drugs removed from homes in Hancock County.
DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day reflects DEA’s commitment to Americans’ safety and health, encouraging the public to remove unneeded medications from their homes as a measure of preventing medication misuse and opioid addiction from ever starting.
DEA is committed to making our communities safer and healthier, and we can do this by reducing overdoses and overdose deaths. While the community does its part to turn in unneeded medications and remove them from potential harm, we are doing our part to further reduce drug-related violence
M.E. Lewis Publishing Party
4th Graders at M. E. Lewis Elementary School participated in the Annual Publishing Party, where they had an opportunity to share their writings. These students have worked hard all year long writing, editing and writing for this day. The stories shared by the 4th grades students was well planned and organized. These are our future author, illustrators, and editors. Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County Inc. partner with staff at M.E. Lewis Elementary School to provide refreshments for the party.
Family Connection-Communities In Schools provided the guest speaker who is an author, publisher and playwriter. Mrs. Kreceda Tyler share her experiences as author and encourage all students who has a desire to be author to do so. She share a video of an eleven year old who has published her first book. Mrs. Tyler shared that the sky in the limit. Mrs. Tyler is from Southwest Georgia. Kreceda Tyler is a lover of of written words which explains why she is currently an author, a screenwriter, and film producer for BOSS Magnet Media.
Most recently her endeavors led her to a position as an Acquisition Editor for Black Odyssey Media Publication, to help amplify black writers voices in niche genres within the traditional publishing area. When she’s not writing, creating films, or helping other author’s writing their dream come true, she can be found in Augusta, Ga jamming to the 90;s music, reading and spending time with her husband and three children.
Hancock Central Middle and High Observe April as Alcohol Awareness Month
Bear Friday and Kickoff for Read Across America
Mayor Allen Haywood signing a proclamation.
E. Lewis Kindergarten students welcome a special visitor on Friday, January 21st at their Bear Friday event. Bear Friday is an event designed to provide Kindergarten students with a book, a bag, and a bear. Each Kindergarten student received their own personal teddy bear to take home with a book for their parent/guardian to read to them and discuss what was just Read.
Ms. Regina Butts, Executive Director of Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. strives daily to partner with schools and other organization to make sure students in our community has access to books and to learn how to read. So, be on the lookout for the Cat in Hat at the end of February as we kick off Read Across America Literacy Spirit Week.
Vaccination Awareness High School Presentation
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Vaccination outreach project. Go get vaccinated.
On Tuesday, November 10th Family Connection- Communities In Schools of Hancock County Inc, Community Healthcare Systems, Inc, REACH and Hancock County Health Department presented the Hancock County School District with a learning event to encourage teens and to become fully vaccinate whether flu or COVID19. Mrs. Darice Oppong and Mrs. Camesha Grant, Outreach Specialist shared with 9th thru 12th grade students.
This learning event allow Family Connection- Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. to share Fair Count grant dollars by purchasing hand sanitizer, masks and other PPE equipment along with vaccination information in gift bags provided by UGA- Food Talk and HHIP.
This vaccine initiative will be at CJE in Deveraux, Ga. on December 4th where non-vaccinated can stop by the Holiday Festival to become vaccinated. There will live entertainment, holiday shopping, giveaways, and fun for the children.
Jersey Day, hero day, hat day @ M.E. Lewis Elementary for Red Ribbon Week.
Read for the record
Local citizen stop by to dispose of Prescription drug during the National Prescription drug Take Back Day.
National Domestic Violence Awareness
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County engage the Community in Georgia statewide- Apple Crunch Day. Over 900 students in the school district participated with 2 Daycare Centers sending in photos and 10 business and organization participating locally.
The Georgia Department of Education School Nutrition Program and Georgia Department of Agriculture celebrates the production of apples in Georgia. What is the Georgia Apple Crunch 4 Lunch? It is Georgia’s statewide celebration of APPLES by crunching into locally grown apples at 12:00 noon on Friday, September 24, 2021. This collective crunch encourages healthy eating and supports farm to school initiatives throughout Georgia.
Back to School and More
Pinwheel in Hancock
Home Reading pilot program. Reading Coach raising fresh eggs and exposing students to life creation.
Read Across America – Dr. Seuss
Family Connection- Communities in Schools of Hancock County, Inc. Continues to Address Early Literacy needs in the Community. On December 10, 2020 Georgia Family Connection was awarded $1725 in support of the Get Georgia Reading Home Pilot project. Because of COVID 19 pandemic Hancock County students has been 100% virtual since March of 2020.
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock Co. Inc, partner with the Apostolic Faith Church and NestFresh Cage Free Egg for their donation of over 900 dozen of eggs. During the give away Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock Co. added a packet of GenRx prescription drug information and free facial mask donated by Ford Motor Company.
Ms. Tip and Hancock County DFACS sharing with community Santa Cruising Toy Drive Give away on December 17th. Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock Inc. provide snack bags for the event.
AmeriCorp Member Sends Home a Literacy Holiday Project
Mrs. Bernestine Harden, Americorp Member and a volunteer, are preparing gifts for her case managed students that are a part of Family Connection -Communities In Schools of Hancock County to construct a gingerbread house or train during the Christmas Break.
Students will be encouraged to use their reading skills to following directions and comprehend them in order to have a successful project. Students will send a picture of the finished product . Literacy engagement is one of the strategies of Family Connection- Communities In Schools of Hancock County, according to Executive Director Ms. Regina Butts
Holiday Health and Prescription Drug information sharing 2020
Flu fighter outreach held at the Reynolds Brothers Property in Springfield
JHA for the Read for the Record event
Hancock Pink pumpkin entry with Community Health Care System
Apple Crunch Day 2020
Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock Co. Spent Thursday, September 24th recognizing essential workers at Community Health Care System staff with lunch. Our collaborative partners and citizens of Hancock County appreciate your hard work, dedication and loyalty to serve during this time. Continue to serve and be safe. Pictured Mr. Terrell Reid, Site Coordinator CIS. Dr. Kimberly Harrison, CHCS, and Ms. Regina Butts, Executive Director for Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock.
Kicking off 2020 Apple Crunch 4 Lunch event in Hancock County.
Family Connection-CIS Executive Director participates in the Department of Health Flu Fighters campaign.
On Tuesday, August 25th Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County, Inc. provided lunch to the Hancock County Health Department staff for the awesome work they are doing during COVID-19. These hardworking ladies risk their lives to saves lives by providing testing at our local Health Department. We appreciate you and your hard work.
Senior bags with PPE and GenRx items
Hancock County Back to School Supply and Resource Giveaway 2020
Resilient Middle Georgia is an initiative of Community Partnership, has launched a new effort to encourage community members to meet and support neighbors. The first portion of this effort is a specialized sticky note that neighbors can post on each other’s doors with encouraging notes and offers of connection. Hancock County received over 800 special sticky notes and playdough that was placed in students bookbags during the Back to School Supply giveaway on July 29-31st.
“If I I Can Help Somebody” A few weeks ago when this awful pandemic called COVID19 came about, my first instinct was how was I going to reach my case manage students and what I could do to encourage them and the community while staying at home. Ms. Butts, Executive Director suggested several things to do to stay connected with my students, such as calling them, mailing students worksheets and activities, sending friendly cards to the nursing home and making calls to the elderly. I did those things, but I wanted to do something from MY Heart, something that students as well as adults could value and use during this pandemic. I need self satisfaction… a feeling that made me feel ” If I can just help save one life then my work would not be in vain”. So, I decided that I would make face protection masks and donate them to worthy cause and our first res-ponders. I have made and donated over 100 masks. Today, I am especially working on the 16 students on my caseload mask, and plan on sending them to them through the mail. I must add… once the word got out that I was making masks… the demand became huge. I’m striving daily to meet the demand one day at time. I am truly grateful that God has given me a talent that is worthy of HIS PEOPLE to Save Lives.
Mrs. Bernestine Harden, Ameri-Corp Member assisting Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc.
2020 Read Across America event held on March 2nd
Special guest Chase and Sky from the Paw Patrol.
On Friday, January 31st, M. E. Lewis Elementary School Kindergarten staff Kicked off their Bear Friday Event being sponsored by Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County. This event is designed for parent engagement, where a parent or an adult read with their child over the weekend. Each Kindergarten student received a bear, a book and a bag. Each Friday, these students will get to take home their personal bear with a new a book to be read to them over the weekend. Thanks Kindergarten Students and Staff.
SBHC tour in Atlanta, Ga.
Pictured left to right (Manager of the SBHC in Atlanta, Mrs. Sheanette Drake, Ms. Regina Butts, Dr. Veda Johnson-Emory)
Jonesboro Connection Church makes their 6th visit to Hancock County to support Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. Pastor Lance Sumner and the Jonesboro Connection Church brought over 90 book-bags filled with Christmas goodies for students in Hancock County. They also played games, told the Christmas story and prepared a delicious lunch for all families and friends that were in attendance.
Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County, Inc. celebrated the dedication of their second Little Library at the New Beulah Baptist Church where Rev. Carl S. Lott serves as Pastor. We encourage children and families in this area to stop by New Beulah and bring a book and Take a Book. Many thanks to Mattie West and Sheanette Drake for coordinating this effort.
Hancock County newest Little Library ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony held on Sunday November 10th at the New Beulah Baptist Church where Rev.Carl S. Lott serves as Pastor. Little Libraries of Hancock County is being made possible through the Literacy efforts of Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County and partners.
Red Ribbon poster contest winners at M.E. Lewis Elementary School. Prize donation was given on the behalf of Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County.
Prescription Drug Take Back and Trunk-a-Treat was held on Sunday, October 27, 2019. Hancock County was able to take back a little over 5 lbs of prescription drugs that will be disposed of properly. Many thanks to Mrs. Bernestine Harden, Mr. Terrell Reid, Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County Staff and Sgt. Marlin Primus, from the Hancock County Sheriffs Department.
Celebrating Red Ribbon Week in Hancock County.
On Wednesday, October 23rd the Hancock County Community observed Breast Cancer Awareness Day in Sparta/Hancock County. Asked all citizen to wear pink to support those who fought, still fighting and caregivers for their service.
Head Start Lunch
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Apple Crunch Day 2019. Hear the crunch all over Hancock County!
Back to School Supply Drive – Saturday, August 3, 2019
Prescription Drugs and Alcohol usage among teens
On Thursday, July 25th Linc Boyer of Milledgeville, Ga. Police Department was special guest to share information on Prescription Drugs and Alcohol usage among teens. This program was sponsored by Ms. Regina Butts, Executive Director of Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County along with the GenRX grant that covers prescriptions Drugs.
Free Little Library
Second Beulah Baptist Church is next in line for Free Little Library to be placed on site at the church. Mrs. Ollie Shinsholster received books from Webster Pharmacy from a previous book drive to stock the newly install library in the Beulah Community, to provide additional reading materials and resources to parents and children in rural areas of Hancock County. Pictured (Will Webster of Webster Pharmacy, and Ollie Shinsholster of Second Beulah Member.)
Bike Giveaway
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County participated in the annual M.E. Lewis Elementary School awards program. With the assistance of donors of bikes and funds. We were able to award grades K-5th students who were the Top Accelerated Readers Winners for the 2018-2019 school year. Mr. Terrell Reid, Site Coordinator and Ms. Regina Butts were available to make presentation on the behalf of our donors.
Sport Balls bags
Family Connection/CIS is providing Sport Balls bags to the three local camps this summer to add physical activity to all students enrolled in Summer Camp. Summer camps are being held in the Deveraux, Springfield and Sparta areas. Students are engaged in varies learning activities to continue their learning by reading thirty minutes each day and physical activities daily.
Summer Camp 2019 in Deveraux Ga.
Farm to School Summit
On June 6-7, the Seventh Georgia Farm to School and Early Care and Education Summit was hosted at Helm College in Macon, Ga. The farm t early care and education (farm to ECE) and farm to school movement connects early care providers, schools, and local farms in an efforts to serve healthy meals and snacks, improve student nutrition, and increase farm and gardening education opportunities.
This year’s Summit welcomes early care providers and staff, teacher, school nutrition staff, students, parents , farmers, distributors and others in learning more about Georgia’s farm to ECE and farm to school community. Attending this year’s summit in Macon, Ga. was Ms. Regina Butts, Family Connection-Communities In School of Hancock County, Inc. Executive Director, Mr. Linton Ingram, Hancock County -School District Food Nutrition Manager and Mrs. Regina J. Jackson, HealthMPower Community Advocate.
Prescription Drug take back day 2019 in Hancock County
On April 27th, The Hancock County Sheriff Office and Sheriff Terrell Primus and staff, and the many community partners with Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. to participate in 2019 -DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. The National Prescription Drug Take Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications. Many thanks to all who participate in the event to make our community a little safer. Our next prescription Take Back Day will be held in the month of October.
April National Child Abuse Prevention Month Pinwheels Ceremony
In 1983, President Reagan first designated April as Child Abuse Prevention Month stating, “Prevention of abuse requires that neighborhoods and communities be attentive to the problems of families in their midst and be willing to help when help is needed. It requires the active concern of educational, medical, mental health, law enforcement, and social service professionals, and the efforts of volunteers and private citizens.”
On Wednesday, April 24th the Hancock County Department of Family Children Services and several other’s partners observed April as National Child Abuse Month. A very short program was presented and several partners planted Blue and Silver Pinwheels at the Hancock County Youth Opportunity Center after the proclamation signing done by Mayor William Evans and Chairperson Helen Sisite Hudson. There were twelve pinwheels planted for this community. Much has been done since to raise awareness. Nationwide efforts are currently underway to improve child safety and prevent child maltreatment-related fatalities.
(pictured left to right – Tarneshia Maddox-Guest from Baldwin Task Force, Vernell Smith-Hancock County Head Start, Helen”Sistie” Hudson- Chair-lady Hancock County Board of Commissioners, Olivette Long- Department of Family Children Service Supervisor and Staff, Johnnie Wilson- Ocmulgee District Attorney’s Office, Mattie West-HIPP member, Annie Ingram-Chair-lady-Hancock County Board of Education, Shirley Tucker-Manager Hancock County Health Department, Alma Brown-HIPP member, William Evans-Mayor of the City of Sparta, Allen Haywood-Mayor Pro-Tem, Terrell Primus- Sheriff Hancock County, many more partners and community representatives where present at this event were not photographed).
Bullying Tour sponsored by: Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. Strengthening your minds and bodies – Presenter Willie Rain bends iron rod to display that inner strength can be found in each of us.
Garden Hydroponics at M.E. Lewis Elementary School
2019 National Read Across America Week Observed
Veterans Reading Day
Toys for Tots
On December 21st and 22nd Hancock County received an abundance of toys from the Marine Corp Toys for Tots in Augusta, Ga. and local donations. Many families would not have had toys if these generous donors and Toys for Tots was not providing. Many thanks to our Site Coordinator, Mr. Terrell Reid, Head Start Family Advocates, Mrs. Delois Bell and Mr. Gary Hill , also the Education Manager Mrs. Vernell Smith for making sure a few days before Christmas that children and families had food to eat and their children had something under the tree. Ms. Regina Butts, Executive Director of Family Connection and Communities and Schools of Hancock County, Inc. has been in partnership with Toys for Tots for over 4 years now. We are just grateful for the partnership.
Holiday Book Bags
On December 8th, over 30 out of town guest visited Hancock County to bring over 90 Holiday Book bags to families and children in Hancock County. The Connection Church of Jonesboro, Ga. has adopted Hancock County for five (5) years to spread a little Christmas cheer, love and support. Under the leadership of their Pastor- Lance Sumner this magnificent church congregation has so graciously providing additional support to our Community. We thank you Connection Church of Jonesboro, Ga. Ms. Regina Butts, Executive Director of Family Connection and Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. do appreciate the loyalty and dedication of this church so many miles of away to support our children and families.
Thanksgiving Cheer
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County spread some Thanksgiving cheer with local families through the Department of Juvenile Justice. Thru local donations and financial contributions from staff members, we were able to share with three families this holiday season. Donations was given from SWAH fitness dancers.
“Hancock County Wake Up Read”
On Wednesday, October 18th Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. carried literacy and health to the streets of Mayfield, Ga. Our strategy team “Hancock County Wake Up Read” visited the Mayfield Community for a ribbon cutting ceremony, literacy and health fun-day. Over thirty -five people attended this grand event. This event kicked off the first of little lending libraries to be place within in Hancock County. Regina Butts, ED for Family Connection-CIS of Hancock County encourages students and parent to take advantage of this opportunity to visit the lending libraries to get books for themselves and children within their household. Many thanks for all our helpers and IGA for donating a gift card.
Attendance Awareness Month
September 2018
Children can’t learn if they aren’t in school—and we all have an important role to play in supporting student attendance. Check out the wide array of resources offered by Attendance Works and begin working with your local partners to address chronic absenteeism and increase attendance for children in your community. Get Started
Ferst Reader Summit
On Friday, August 24th, Regina Butts, Executive Director for Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County attended the Annual Ferst Reader Summit in Madison, Ga. Regina serves as CAT team leader for Hancock County where we have been sending books to students from birth to age 5 since 1999. Ferst Foundation is a literacy program that provides Free books to students and parent guide monthly. Below Butts, was a winner of drawing for Free books.
Wake Up and Read Summer Camp Bike winner for the most books read
M.E. Lewis Ribbon Cutting for new Reading lab
On Saturday, July 28th over 400 children and parents attended the Annual Back to School Supply, Literacy and Health Awareness Day event. Students were able to pick up free school supplies and parents were able to pickup free literature from HealthMPowers, Fort Valley State University EFNEP, UGA- Food Talk, HHIPP, Hancock County DFACS, Sparta Lions Club, Delta Sorority, Hancock County Health Department, Hospice, Community Health Care System provided free school supplies, and health checks, FREE story books, free book bags, parent engagement sign-up, Free haircuts by Nate, Peppie and Julius Watkins. Also, a Free meal sponsored by Men on a Mission. Parents were also given an opportunity select school uniforms. Many thanks to all our sponsors, vendors, parents and children, Hancock County School Board and Staff, John Hancock Academy and staff of Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County Board and Staff.
Butts Attends Grade-Level Reading Week in Philadelphia
During the week of July 24-27, Regina Butts, Executive Director of Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County and Trelaine Neville, Care source Out Reach Coordinator, attended GLR Week 2018 in Philadelphia. The week feature exciting activities focused on accelerating the learning from last year’s event in Denver while strengthening connections to grade-level reading champions nationwide and beyond.
Hancock County received recognition of your community achievement as a 2018 Bright Spotlight with the M.E. Lewis featured story “Read, Read to Succeed” where Butts and Principal Dr. Norman Hart implement various reading strategies and events to engage parents and to motivate students from K-5 to read more and to understand the importance of reading. Also, Hancock County was recognized for Council Champion, our partner Care Source who provided resources and funding to support Bear Friday Project, Dr. Seuss events and many other school and community related reading events.
Many thanks to our school district staff, parents, children, community stakeholders, bushiness for your commitment to the Campaign for Grade-Level Reading in Hancock County. (pictured Regina Butts, Marcell Johnson and Trealine Neville.)
Reading Summer at summer camp in Sparta Ga.
On June 20th, 30 students from the Springfield Camp attended a Georgia College State University in Milledgeville, Ga for a Reading Rally with special guest Malcolm Mitchell of the New England Patriots and the 2018 Super Bowl Champion wide receiver. Mitchell entered the University of Georgia on a Junior High reading level. Malcolm shared his story on how important it is read. Mitchell is an author and advocate for reading. Each student who attendance received a copy of Malcolm book entitled :The Magic Hat” This activity the Sandra Dunagan Deal Center of Early Language and Literacy at Georgia College was the sponsor. Many thanks to those supporter who donated funds for our students to eat and dine on the Georgia College Max cafeteria. The student really enjoyed their meal.
Foster Grandparents reading to students and assisting them with literacy skill handouts
Wake Up Read School District Reading Specialist reading to summer campers
EMC Grant Donation for P.E equipment purchased.
Child abuse pinwheel ceremony done with collaborative partners. Great Day in Hancock County!
Thanks for the Donation!
On Sunday, April 22, 2018 Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. Executive Director Regina Butts and the Principal of the M.E. Lewis Elementary attended the Knight of Columbus Council #13808 Christ Our King & Savior Catholic Church located on Lake Oconee Parkway in Greensboro, Ga.
Ferst Foundation of Hancock County received a check for $1800.00 and Communities In Schools in the amount of $1700.00 made possible on the behalf of the philanthropic work of the Knights of Columbus Council #13808. This council is comprised of over 180 officers and council members who have worked throughout the year to raise money for many local charities that support (Greene, Putnam, and Hancock Counties).
5th grade Playground Equipment.
M.E. Lewis receives new P.E equipment due to Executive Director, Regina Butts of Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. writing a mini grant for $1,663.00 and the Play 60 grant. On Friday, April 19th, P.E. Coach Patrick Graney held a small ceremony to unveil each grade level physical fitness equipment. Go M.E. Lewis!
Elementary students receiving 10 pounds of food weekly.
Children living in poverty and hunger is a major obstacle. The Pantry Pack program is Golden Harvest Food Bank’s new pilot initiative in communities such as Hancock County to stop hunger. The program provides packs of food and hygiene items that are easily accessible. Each pack includes an educational sheet explaining proper nutrition and food preparation. For $8 per month students receives 40 pounds per week. Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. and their partners are making this possible for twenty-three students in our community. Publix and CIS thank you for your $70.00 donation. Every dollar makes a diffidence.
On Monday, March 26th, Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. braved the cold to support the M.E. Lewis Elementary School Bear Friday Literacy Recharge and the Kick-off for Accelerated Reader 2018.
The purpose of these program were to remind students on the importance of reading, to motivate them to continue to read , encourage them to do well on the Georgia Milestone testing that they will embark upon when they return from spring. But most of all, this event was to announce the Big Bike give-way to the girl and the boy who earns the most point by reading books on and/or above their reading level. Please stay tune in May, for the FINAL results !! Thank you for your attendance this morning and your donation to purchase a bike and helmet.
For those who wish to donate it looks like we will need some 22, 24 and 26 inch bikes. Please have your purchase done and delivered by May 5th.
Read Across America in Hancock County
Mrs. Teresa Kell from United Insurance -Kemper Cares Program presented Ms. Regina Butts a check for $250 to support the literacy and health initiatives of Family Connection-Communities In Schools.
Students will benefits from this donations by receiving additional school supplies and support for Georgia Milestone testing and English and Language for the middle and elementary school students. Mrs. Kell has support this organization providing and packing school weekend pantry packs and school supplies. Many thanks to Kemper Cares for there donation.
Read Across America in Hancock County
Mr. Zack Taylor, local Manager of Georgia Power presented Ms. Regina Butts, Executive Director of Family Connection-Communities In School of Hancock County, Inc. with a $300.00 donation to support the work of our organization.
Family Connection- Communities in Schools of Hancock County, Inc. is the only non-profit organization in the community that has business standards and registered with Secretary of State that provides case management services to identified students who are in need of various support systems, such as food, school supplies, clothing, tutoring, behavior management, parent engagement, Ameri-Corp tutor and academic success.
Many thanks to Georgia Power for your donation and we welcome Mr. Zack Taylor to our community.
Bear Friday Literacy Kick-Off
On Wednesday, November 1st Family Connection-Communties and Schools of Hancock County and partners held a literacy kick-off for Kindergarten students at the M.E. Lewis Elementary School. This Project is called “Bear Friday“. The project is designed to engage parents and students to in a reading activity over the weekend. Each Kindergarten student will receive a teddy bear, a book and book bag to carry home each Friday for their parents, siblings or friends to read to them. This project is design to increase students vocabulary and reading proficiency. There were special guest who attended to cheer the Kindergartener on to be great readers, our special guest was SKYE from Paw Patrol, Minnie Mouse and the Cat in the Hat. Many thanks to all our donors for supporting this effort to get and keep our early learners reading.
Balloon release in observance of Domestic Violence in Hancock County
Georgia Pre-K Week- Mrs. Annie Ingram, Board Education Chair reading at PreK meeting.
The Choice Bus
The Choice Bus takes students through a 25-minute interactive presentation designed to show the relevancy of education to career choices and lifetime earning potential. Midway through the presentation, a full scale replica of a prison cell is revealed. It’s a powerful demonstration of how education—and the lack of education—is connected to making good or bad choices. During the
presentation, The Choice Bus staff leads students in discussions about the importance of education, choosing friends wisely, avoiding gangs, being respectful to others and having a career interest.
Students learn several eye-opening facts about education, that a good education leads to a lifetime of opportunities and a lack of education will likely lead to a lifetime of despair and hardship.
The Choice Bus message is powerful!!!! The Hancock County School District enjoyed two full days for the middle and high school interaction on Choice Bus. This event was coordinated by Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County and the Hancock County School district staff members.
Annual Back to School Give Away
Held on July 29th. Nearly 500 families served. School started August 1st. All made possible by sponsors, donors and volunteers.
Executive Director and Early Head Start Center Manager – Mrs. Vernell Smith, attended a two day Summit Early Literacy at Georgia College State University. Governor and First Lady Nathan and Sandra Deal were guests for the ending luncheon. The Literacy Center was named in honor of First Lady Sandra Deal.
Students at Summer camp who read the most books were awarded $10 for there participation. Summer reading program sponsored Family Connection-Communities In School of Hancock County Inc.
Congratulations to Ms. Fatima’s class – M.E. Lewis Lexlie Winners for 2017.
Ferst Foundation Early Childhood Literacy Program
Regina Butts, Executive Director present Ferst Foundation with a check for $1700 to support the Ferst Foundation Early Childhood Literacy Program to support students in Hancock County to keep them reading. Ferst Foundation Childhood Literacy is a program that send books to children ages birth to 5. Pictured: Regina Butts, Executive Director and Glenda Cofer, Ferst Foundation Literacy of Morgan County.
Snack Bags
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. and partners presented third and fourth at the M.E. Lewis snack bags that contains a 100% juice box, cereal bar and sunchips as a way to get that extra energy boost to continue to do well on the Georgia Milestone test.
Site Coordinator, Terrell Reid and Mentor Mr. Calvin Wilson delivered bags to all 3rd and 4th grade students. Recharges will be distributed to all 8th graders and the entire high school later next week.
Dr. Seuss Birthday Celebration
WJBF Channel 6 in Augusta, Ga. donates books to Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock Co.Inc. in effort to support the the strategy of making sure that all students in third grade are proficient readers. Pictured: Ms. Helen Johnson of WJBF Channel 6 posed with books donated to Executive Director of Family Connection-Communities in Schools of Hancock County, Inc. Books were collected during a book drop in Augusta, Ga. along with support from Bridgestone.
Read Across America Proclamation signing with local officials. Pictures- Dr Charles Culver, Superintendent of School, Mayor William Evans, and County Commission Chair-lady- Sistie Hudson. Students from the M.E. Lewis Elementary School and Hancock Central Middle School were present during the proclamation signing. Also, three students from the Middle School visited the M.E. Lewis Elementary School to read the Kindergarten class. Also, there were local officials, pastor’s, and community representatives were present to read a story to the entire M.E. Lewis Elementary School.
Odessay Ware Students
Hancock Central Middle School Mentor and Mentee Holiday celebration.
Mentors are Calvin Wilson, Dr. Patricia Bell and Kenneth Taylor.
School Nutrition
On Tuesday, December 6th, twenty five elementary, middle and high school students from Hancock County attending a School nutrition sample of chicken from various vendor. The gist of the chicken tasting adventure were to get an honest opinion on what flavor or dish of chicken students would like to see served in their school cafeteria. This event was hosted by Mr. Linton Ingram, School Nutritionist. Family Connection-Communities in Schools Executive Director chaperone and tasted chicken along with the students. The chicken sampling took place at the Perry Art Center in Perry, Ga.
Pine Cone craft project
Arts and Crafts instructors Mrs. Bernestine Harden and Family Connection-Communities In School of Hancock County ED taught an after-school Pine Cone craft project. The project was to make a Christmas Tree and decorate it using ribbons and beads. Students in the class enjoyed their project.
21st Century Arts and Crafts Project
Winners Amari Winkfield and Jashera Fluellen were winners of the arts and crafts edible arrangement drawing. The edible arrangements were completed by students in the 21st Century Arts and Craft class taught by Mrs. Bernestine Harden and Ms. Regina Butts. Instructors engaged students in a lifelong activity of making floral arrangements using simple materials that could possible be a money making adventure.
Pictures include snap shots of Middle School 21st Century students attending an arts and crafts class to make table decoration using natures own pine cones and simple embellishment. Also shown are photos of the edible arrangement session. Students completed 14 turkeys that will be displayed at local nursing home facilitate as dining room table center pieces for the Thanksgiving Holiday. These students not only learned a simple project, but they also learned how important it is share with others, especially those who are home bound.
Winter Warm-up/Coat Drive sponsored by Family Connection- Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Victory Baptist Church and Amerigroup of Georgia. This event was held on Saturday, November 12th. Amerigroup of Georgia provided hats, mittens and gloves to all that attended. Amerigroup served Krispy Kreme Donuts and Cocoa bar for refreshment.
Many thanks to Pierce Memorial, Victory Baptist Church, Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Bernestine Harden, and the many volunteers who donated coats and assisted in this event. Special thanks to Kalmar Williams, a resident of Hancock County who is attending GCSU.
Students and Community Partners participate in one hour information session in reference to Domestic Violence. October is National Domestic Violence Month.
Representative Mack Jackson reading to the children at Hancock County Pre-K on October 5th. While observing National PreK Week for Georgia
Family Connection- Communities In Schools of Hancock County Partners with Summer Camps
2nd graders at M.E. Lewis Elementary School checking out the books that were donated by WJBF and other partners in the Augusta, Ga. area. Thanks for supporting Hancock County Schools!
Family Connection – Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. Executive Director – Regina Butts attended Dr. Seuss fund-raiser in Putnam County. Ms.Butts participated in the one mile fun run. After, the fun the crowd enter Putnam County Primary School for Dr. Seuss games, face painting, cake walk, and information booths. Many thanks to Annie Ingram and Agnes Griffith for coming to observe. This was event was sponsored by volunteers of Ferst Foundation to keep children from birth to five reading age appropriate books that are mailed to their homes on a monthly bases.
On March 7th, Ms. Helen B. Johnson, Account Manager and Mr. Ed Bloodworth, Weather forecaster for Good Morning Augusta of WJBF News Channel 6 in Augusta, Ga. presented Family Connection- Communities in Schools of Hancock County Inc. Executive Director Ms. Regina Butts with over 150 children books from a local book drive sponsored by WJBF. These books will be shared with the Hancock County Early Head Start program along with the M.E.Lewis Elementary school. These books are perfect timing because of the “Get Georgia Read” cohort initiative by 2020 all Georgia students will be on grade level by third grade.
Thanks to a private donor Family Connection/Communities In School of Hancock County was able to partner with Helping Hands of Hancock County, the Department of Family and Children Services and Sandy’s IGA to provide 125 free turkeys to needy families throughout the County. We would like to thank all who made this possible.
Back to School Supply give away held on Aug 1, 2015
Presentation of Check to Hancock County Family Connection
Back to school supply give away
Executive Directors Teresa Carter Burke County, Laurie Cook, Richmond County, Carol Lewis, President of CIS Georgia and Regina Butts of Hancock County attended the Georgia Chamber Power Lunch in Augusta, Georgia on June 30th. Executive Directors from Communities In Schools were able to network local business and agencies on economic development.
Site Coordinator and Executive Director recognize teachers at M.E. Lewis Elementary School. May 4-7 is National Teacher’s Week. Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County salutes all the teacher’s in the Hancock County School District.
21st Century Students in Culinary Arts class display one of there many project entitled “Brownies in a jar”.
Principle Jones with CIS Students
Sparta Cleanup Day
Coat Giveaway
Display of student work of the year
Family Connection Executive Director and a student Merecedes attends a college focus banquet on medicine sponsored by Representative Mack Jack. Mercedes poses with Representative Mack Jack
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County Executive Director attends a conference of teen dating with two local parents and students. Conference was sponsored by Georgia Legal Services Program of Macon, Ga. Special guest speaker was Judge Glenda Hatchett. Theme was ” Secret and Stilettos”
Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Hancock County, Inc. attended a special ceremony to support Literacy during the month of March will First Lady Governor Deal and Dr. Seuss.
Literacy Program
Devonta’s Spotlight
Culinary Arts
FC/CIS Board and Staff with National Accreditation Certificate
Family Connection-Communties In Schools of Hancock County is presented a check for $250.00 from Georgia Power. Check was presented by Mrs. LaTuyna Goodwin, of Georgia Power. Present was Allen Haywood, LaTunya Goodwin, Regina Butts, Gary Hill, Aketi Mayweather and Willie Mae Hurse.
Hancock County Family Connection- Communities Schools Holiday Back-Pack giveaway sponsored by The Connection Church of Jonesboro, Ga. Local CIS students receives back packs filled with goodies and school supplies for the Christmas Holidays.
The slogan of the week contest was held during red ribbon week October 27 – 31 at M. E. Lewis Elementary School.
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VISTA volunteer reads ” Three Little Pumpkins” dressed in their witches hat for the Fall season at Head Start.
Family Connection-Community In School of Hancock County Fall Movie and Skating Saturday was well attended.
5th Annual Labor Day Community Picnic
Live Healthy Hancock Biggest Loser Photos
Community Garden at the Housing Authority
Reading Across America
Summer Camp 2013
Downtown Restoration