Free COVID-19 Testing for the Public at the Andrew and Walter Young Family YMCA

ATLANTA – Free walk-up and drive-thru COVID-19 testing will be available to the public at the Andrew and Walter Young Family YMCA for individuals with or without common virus symptoms. National Church Residences is partnering with The Family Health Centers of Georgia, Inc. and Andrew and Walter Young Family YMCA in collaboration with Georgia State Senator Nikema Williams, Atlanta City Councilmember Marci Overstreet, Fulton County Commissioner Marvin S. Arrington, Jr., Royal Roots Barber Shop, The Black Man Lab, I'm A Father F1rst, and WellCare to offer this public service.

Testing will take place in the YMCA parking lot located at 2220 Campbellton Road, SW, Atlanta, GA 30311 on Wednesday, July 29, 2020 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. To register, visit covid.fhcga.org or call 1-800-935-6721. Pre-registration is not required, but encouraged.

"We're thankful to collaborate with community partners to help spread the word about the importance of COVID-19 testing and knowing your status," said Director of Population Health, Jacque Thornton. "This is our second public testing event in Southwest Atlanta. This specific site was selected to not only test local residents, but also to raise awareness on measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19."

The Family Health Centers of Georgia, Inc. is offering free COVID-19 testing at various locations throughout metro Atlanta. Additional testing sites can be found at http://fhcga.org.

Free COVID-19 Testing Event

Wednesday, July 29, 2020 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Andrew and Walter Young Family YMCA

2220 Campbellton Road, SW

Atlanta, GA 30311

National Church Residences remains committed to protecting the health and well-being of its staff and raising the awareness about the importance of COVID-19 testing to the public.

About National Church Residences

National Church Residences serves more than 42,000 seniors through its array of housing and health care services. The not-for-profit organization is driven by a vision of advancing better living for all seniors, enabling them to remain home for life. With 340 communities in 25 states and Puerto Rico, it is the nation's largest not-for-profit provider of affordable senior housing and the largest manager of service coordinators. The organization also offers residential senior communities, home and community-based services, as well as permanent supportive housing for the formerly homeless and disabled. For more information, visit us at NationalChurchResidences.org and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

National Church Residences Partners with Fulton County Board of Health to Offer Free COVID-19 Testing in Southwest Atlanta

ATLANTA – In partnership with the Fulton County Board of Health and in collaboration with Fulton County Commissioner Marvin S. Arrington, Jr. and Atlanta City Councilmember Joyce Sheperd, National Church Residences will open a walk-up and drive-thru COVID-19 testing site to the public. Testing will take place in the parking lot at Lakewood Christian Manor, an affordable housing senior living community located at 2141 Springdale Road, SW, Atlanta, Georgia 30315 on Monday, July 6, 2020 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Neither a doctor’s note for referral is required for testing.

“Testing is critically important to stopping the spread of the disease,” said Director of Population Health, Jacque Thornton. “This site was selected to enhance neighborhood access to testing in the southwest Atlanta area.”

Residents may be tested whether they have COVID-19 symptoms or not. COVID-19 testing is now available to all residents regardless of symptoms. Fulton County and community partners are offering FREE COVID-19 testing at locations throughout the county. Additional Fulton County testing sites can be found here.

Free COVID-19 Testing Events

Monday, July 6, 2020 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Lakewood Christian Manor

2141 Springdale Road, SW

Atlanta, GA 30315

This free COVID-19 testing event is in partnership with the Fulton County Board of Health. It is open to the public and for Lakewood Christian Manor residents and staff.

Wednesday, July 29, 2020 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Andrew & Walter Young Family YMCA

2220 Campbellton Road, SW

Atlanta, GA 30311

This free COVID-19 testing event is in partnership with The Family Health Centers of Georgia, Inc. This event is open to the public and for Baptist Towers and Baptist Gardens residents and staff.

About National Church Residences

National Church Residences serves more than 42,000 seniors through its array of housing and health care services. The not-for-profit organization is driven by a vision of advancing better living for all seniors, enabling them to remain home for life. With 340 communities in 25 states and Puerto Rico, it is the nation’s largest not-for-profit provider of affordable senior housing and the largest manager of service coordinators. The organization also offers residential senior communities, home and community-based services, as well as permanent supportive housing for the formerly homeless and disabled. For more information, visit us at NationalChurchResidences.org and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Our Juneteenth Story

Happy Juneteenth! Amplifying my sister, Malaika Marable Serrano's LinkedIn post about our great-great grandfather, Morris Marable.

Our Juneteenth story:

Morris Robinson was born around 1839 and had sandy blond hair, blue-green eyes and fair skin. His father was a plantation owner in West Georgia and his bi-racial mother worked in the house.

Morris was a slave.

When Morris was about 8 years old, his own father sold him to an Alabama planter named Marable for $500. That day, Morris Robinson became Morris Marable and he never saw his mother again.

During the Civil War, he ran away with his sweetheart and about $40 worth of gold. Together, Morris and his wife created a new life for themselves and raised their children to be compassionate, God-fearing, entrepreneurial, and civic-minded members of society.

I'm proud to be the great-great granddaughter of slaves. On this special day in U.S. history, I encourage all of us to celebrate the creativity, innovation, and contributions of African-Americans throughout U.S. history and around the world.

A Change is Gonna Come

“A Change is Gonna Come.” - Sam Cooke

This is the first weekend that I’ve spent with my mom at her home since the COVID-19 outbreak. I haven’t been to a salon in months, and with all that’s happening in the world with the global pandemic and Black Lives Matter protests, I found a moment of peace within myself while she was braiding my hair today. Being together was restorative.

It’s my hope that we find real change. It’s time people in power stop talking and start doing. Ar...e we really going to root out systemic racism given all that has brought us to this point? If so, it’s going to take time and leaders in power to really listen and start taking action.

As a community advocate, I’m energized by the diverse participants who are leading protests around the world. Our participation is a vital part of the movement and our enthusiasm for real change NOW speaks volumes.

My promise as a former Fulton County candidate is that I will hold leaders in all spaces accountable for their actions, and that I will work hard with other like-minded individuals and organizations to get out the vote in November so that we can see this same collective energy for real positive change at the polls.

Join me at www.Facebook.com/SouthFultonVotes.

Along the Color Line: Coping with a Global Pandemic and Race Relations Simultaneously in 2020

Sojourner Marable Grimmett

How do woke minds breathe in the middle of a COVID-19 pandemic that is disproportionately affecting Black and brown communities; all while across the country protesters are rising up advocating for peace and justice because of another unlawful killing of a black man at the hands of police?

I am a peaceful protester. For as long as I can remember, I have held a protest sign in my hands waving it in the air among 60-something year old environmentalists in Boulder, Colorado, to co-creating lactation pods for moms at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and at the 2017 National Women's March on Washington, and most recently chanting “Black Lives Matter” among like-minded spirits walking towards the Georgia State Capitol in downtown Atlanta, Georgia.

I’ve never been one to watch the coverage, but have always been a part of the movement protesting against hatred of every kind. Having studied civil disturbances in graduate school, I understand the history and measures employed by white supremacists and terrorists cowardly infiltrating and misplacing blame against activists shining light via protests of violence against Black and brown bodies. Additionally, the media consistently mislabels protest coverage further exacerbating stereotypical notions of blacks as “thugs” vilified on front pages of newspapers and social media.

The nation is crying for change. And the leader in charge is the worst example of leadership possible, one who has never been detached from racism and one who actively promotes and instigates acts of oppression on all of its forms.

I believe the majority are standing up to the minority of those who hate and are collectively championing for effective and positive change. I continuously reflect on how to become more of an agent of healing as we prepare for the days ahead.

I’m the proud mother of two remarkable Black sons. My oldest son, Roland turns 13 on Saturday. His hair makes him taller than his dad. He is quite, kindhearted, and smart. Yet summer travel plans have changed not because of the worst pandemic in 100 years, but because of the state of America. I am stressed being out with my sons and husband navigating daily errands or leisure time outside our home for fear of coming across a crooked racist who understands their power and fate over my Black family's lives.

The president isn’t acknowledging the pain and agony of our country's state, the 400 years of systemic racism. We are seeking justice, safety, and peace. I stay prayerful for my sons and other Black boys and men. Now I’m entrusting in our teachings and God’s will to protect them when away from under my roof.

Barack Obama is right -- "the choice isn’t between protest and politics. We have to do both."

Some ways to get involved:

·       Start a conversation

·       Get involved -- volunteer, help out

·       Access more information

·       Speak out and share your story

·       Organize

·       Support local and online Black businesses

·       Teach your kids and family members to:

o   have conversations about race

o   learn the best ways for them to be activists/active contributors into their communities        

o   learn about other underrepresented cultures and work towards being advocates and allies for others

o   understand their rights as well as having to teach young kids of color how they can try to stay safe when engaging with police/people in positions of power

A number of people have privately reached out to me, asking how I'm doing and what they can do to be supportive. I appreciate all of this and I think the best thing we can do for each other and ourselves, is to come together as a community. Listening with open hearts and minds, being willing to engage in self-reflective work and active allyship - even when it's difficult or uncomfortable - is what the world needs right now.

It’s Official!

It’s official! My name will be on the ballot for Fulton County Commissioner District 6 on September 17, 2019. I invite you to join me on this journey.

https://bit.ly/2I7lBm8

With 20 years of public service experience, I am eager to bring a fresh perspective to Fulton County. Like my namesake, I speak truth to power and am passionate about people and service. I look forward to sharing my vision for the Mighty 6 District of Fulton County over the next several weeks.
Support my campaign at the $101, $50, $20.19 level and join me on what will be an incredible journey for social change.

To donate to my campaign today, visit: ElectSojourner.com or www.cash.app/$TeamSojourner

I appreciate your support!

With Love,

Sojourner

#TeamSojourner
#ElectSojourner

 

In case you missed it..

After much prayer and conversation with my family, I am excited to announce my candidacy for Fulton County Commissioner - District 6.

secure.anedot.com/committee-to-elect-sojourner/sgsa

My father, Dr. Manning Marable, was a longtime professor of public affairs, history, and African American Studies at Columbia University. He founded and directed the Institute for Research in African American Studies, and won the Pulitzer Prize for History for his biography on Malcolm X.

From an early age, my father instilled in me the attitude of prevailing and having a high moral compass. He taught me to serve others, be charitable, honest, and kind. I'm not new to public service. I come from a legacy of service and community.

Now I need your help. Our journey starts today. Join #TeamSojourner with a founding donation of $20.19, $50, $101, $250, $500 or whatever you can give to help us kick off the campaign. https://bit.ly/2I7lBm8

My goal is to bring a fresh perspective and be a beacon of change for the people of Fulton. I have served this community for 15 years, and I am excited for the road ahead.

Click here to join the team today so that we can get to work: https://bit.ly/2I7lBm8

With Love,

Sojourner

Outstanding Atlanta Class of 2018

I am humbled and truly honored to be one of ten 2018 Outstanding Atlanta honorees (and in the company of such amazing colleagues).

 

 Congratulations to this year’s Outstanding Atlanta honorees:

• Candace Bazemore – Digital Marketing Manager, LogistiCare
• Joy Dyess – Vice President, Director of Special Projects, BankSouth Mortgage
• Jake Evans – Associate, Thompson Hine LLP...
• Andre Greenwood – Vice President, Field Network Management, WellCare Health Plans, Inc.
• Sojourner Marable Grimmett – Director of External Affairs, Atlanta Region, National Church Residences
• James Hammond – Managing Partner, Ikon Filmworks LLC
• Shayla Neely, Director of Infrastructure Programming, Wendel
• Raj Shah – Senior Associate, Parker Hudson Rainer & Dobbs
• Karim Shariff – Co-Founder/CEO, PacificPoint Realty, LLC
• Jomal Vailes – Chief Philanthropy Officer, Communities In Schools of Georgia

Learn more about Outstanding Atlanta at outstandingatlanta.org. Follow the hashtags #OATurns50 and #OutstandingAtlanta on social media.
 

 

 

 

 

BMW Pay It 4Ward Brunch Celebrates Atlanta Honorees #PayIt4WardBMW

 

I am truly honored and humbled to be recognized for my digital public engagement work and stand among such amazing women who are making an impact in their industries, communities, and the lives of others at this year's Pay It 4Ward Honors Ultimate Brunch. This years brunch benefited Enchanted Closet, a 501c3 that provides tools for enhancing the self-awareness, self-esteem, and self-sufficiency of girls.

Sojourner Marable Grimmett Named Newest Atlanta Red Cross Tiffany Circle Member

I’m honored to join women leaders as a new member of the Tiffany Circle, a community of women who invest their time, talent and treasure by engaging women locally, nationally and internationally to advance the mission of the American Red Cross. Learn more about the Tiffany Circle at http://www.redcross.org/local/georgia/supporters/tiffany-circle.

Camp Creek Bombers Flapjack Fundraiser Breakfast 7/16 #BombersBaseballATL

You're invited! Come support our Camp Creek Bombers baseball team's fundraiser breakfast on Saturday, July 16, 2016 from 8AM - 10AM, located at Applebee's, 3690 Cascade Road, Atlanta, GA 30331. 

Proceeds to benefit our all-stars' trip to the Dizzy Dean World Series in MS beginning July 22nd. To secure your tickets for this event, please pay via PayPal to BombersBaseballATL@gmail.com. RSVP by July 1st.

What I Know For Sure After Attending the Act Like A Success Conference #ALAS2016

Sojourner Marable Grimmett

The Act Like A Success Conference in Atlanta took place on May 13-15, 2016. This year's conference was designed to not only motivate and inspire attendees, but to equip us to take steps to get to the next level of success. Steve Harvey put together a dynamic success team who helped attendees create a vision for our lives, set big goals, moving past fear, gain practical strategies to advance our careers, and knowledge on building financial wealth.

Join us virtually at the @IAmSteveHarvey Act Like A Success Conference in Atlanta! Follow me @SojournerRuth and #ALAS2016 on Twitter!

A video posted by Sojourner Marable Grimmett (@sojournerruth) on May 13, 2016 at 7:18am PDT

Social Media Influences Team 

I was fortunate to attend the conference as a member of the Social Media Team. Being a part of the team, allowed me the opportunity to share insights from phenomenal speakers and information gathered from break-out sessions. 

Act Like A Success Bloggers

Speakers

Inspirational speakers featured at the event shared their experiences, successes, failures, and life lessons which they learned and helped them grow into a success. 

Patrice Washington 

Steve Harvey

Here's a sneak peek of what I heard! 

"Ask God to reveal your gift to you." - @IAmSteveHarvey #ALAS2016 #SteveHarvey #IAMSteveHarvey #Atlanta #ATL

A video posted by Sojourner Marable Grimmett (@sojournerruth) on May 14, 2016 at 1:01pm PDT

Watch #SteveHarvey @ActLikeASuccess discuss the importance of identifying your gift. RT @IAmSteveHarveyTV #ALAS2016 #ActLikeASuccess #ATL #Atlanta

A video posted by Sojourner Marable Grimmett (@sojournerruth) on May 13, 2016 at 2:09pm PDT

What I Know For Sure! 

Here's what I learned and know for sure after attending the Act Like A Success Conference: 
1. It's important to identify your gift. Your gift is what you do the best with the least amount of effort. 
2. Mistakes happen. Learn from them and keep moving forward. 
3. Don't give up on your dreams. 
4. Don't be lazy. Keep going. 
5. Surround yourself with people who have your back.

I partnered with Purpose Driven Media and am a member of the Act Like a Success Blogger Team. They provided me with compensation for this event coverage. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Instagram Giveaway: Mother's Day Timex Weekender Fairfield Giveaway! #Giveaway

I've teamed up with Timex for a special Mother's Day giveaway! One mom will win this beautiful Timex Weekender Fairfield watch. To enter:

1. Follow me on Instagram @SojournerRuth (www.Instagram.com/SojournerRuth). Look for this post to enter and win.

Description:

Timex Weekender Fairfield, 37mm

$59.95 to 69.95; www.Timex.com

Nylon Slip-Thru Strap

Rose Gold-Tone Brass Case

30 Meter Water Resistance

Indiglo® Night-Light

Happy Mothers' Day!

Real Life Mommy Confessions happen with Mommy Uncensored, Mothers Day on ASPiRE TV! #MommyUncensored

Get ready for the hilariously funny award-winning comedy web series on motherhood, Mommy Uncensored. Watch Mommy Uncensored on Mother's Day only on ASPiRE TV at 8PM! Follow #MommyMoments and include you own @TVAspire!

Water Day for Flint in Atlanta #ATLWaterDay

Say Yes! Register for the Act Like A Success Conference in Atlanta! #ActLikeASuccess

In Just Three Days, Get Tools, Strategies, Motivation and Insights To Accelerate Success and Make Your Big Dreams Your Reality

 

The Act Like A Success Conference is coming to Atlanta on May 13-15, 2016! The journey to your next level of success begins in less than 40 days. This year's conference is sure to be magnificent. The Act Like A Success Conference is designed to not only motivate and inspire you, but to equip you to take steps to get to your next level of success. Steve Harvey has put together a dynamic success team who are going to help you do the following: 

• Create or expand your vision for your life.
• Set big goals or recommit to the ones you already have.
• Focus on writing an action plan to achieve your goals.
• Move past fear and stop letting it hold you back.
• Get practical strategies to advance your career.
• Gain knowledge on building financial wealth.

Success never “just happens”.

I believe that everyone is put on this earth for a reason. It's up to you to determine your calling. When you immerse yourself around like-minded folks, then you can create energy to force you to really think about your hearts desires and dreams. Steve Harvey believes that, "success evolves as you take the proactive, powerful, committed and challenging steps to say “YES” to creating the success you want — and deserve." 

Your authentic success is within your reach as you become a part of our community and take advantage of all the tools and resources available.

Is This Conference For You?

• If you believe that you were destined for more.
• If you are ready to do the work to get you the results you want.
• If you are ready to stretch yourself beyond your comfort zone.

Win 2 VIP Tickets to Steve Harvey's Success Conference

Enter for your chance to win tickets to attend Steve Harvey's Act Like A Success Conference, May 13 - 15, 2016 in Atlanta, GA here.

 
Follow the conversation on Twitter!
Follow @ActLikeASuccess and the hastag #ALAS2016. I can't wait to see you there!

I partnered with Purpose Driven Media and am a member of the Act Like a Success Blogger Team. They provided me with compensation for this event coverage. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.