At FCS, we know lasting change doesn’t happen alone. It takes neighbors, leaders, and partners coming together with a shared commitment to building thriving communities. We’re grateful for the many organizations and individuals who walk alongside us, bringing unique gifts and a shared heart for community transformation.
Here are just a few of the incredible partners making an impact in Historic South Atlanta:
Buckhead Church: A Generous Partner Rooted in Relationship
For years, Buckhead Church has been a faithful and generous partner in the work of FCS. Through their annual Be Rich campaign, the church community gives and serves alongside trusted nonprofit partners across Atlanta—including FCS.
“We decided long ago that we didn’t want to pioneer; we wanted to partner,” shared Michelle Jenkins, who leads the church’s Intersect team. “FCS was one of our earliest partnerships, and it’s helped shape how we think about community engagement.”
That commitment goes far beyond financial support. From hosting toy drives to volunteering at the Christmas Store, Buckhead Church members show up year after year. One of the most impactful gifts came recently when the church donated a van, ensuring safe transportation for kids to and from camp.
Fueling Healthy Futures with the Atlanta Falcons Youth Fund
In South Atlanta, healthy food access and youth wellness go hand-in-hand, and thanks to a partnership with the Atlanta Falcons Youth Fund (AFYF), both are growing stronger.
Through an associate-led initiative, the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation’s AFYF has supported FCS in various endeavors. This support has enabled Carver Market and our 2-for-1 Produce Program, and has also facilitated the launch of a Nutrition Education Series for local youth. Their recent, generous grant provided critical administrative support, which will help ensure the sustainability and impact of our programs.
“Our goal is to increase kids’ access to fresh fruits and vegetables and encourage physical activity,” shared Aidan Mullaney, Manager of Community Engagement and Sports Philanthropy at AMB Sports and Entertainment. “Partnerships like this help us do both, and we love that FCS not only creates access to healthy food, but teaches kids how to prepare and enjoy it, too.”
AFYF’s support goes beyond funding. Associates recently spent time with South Atlanta youth. “Our mission is to get kids moving and into sports, but that’s hard to do if they’re hungry or don’t have the energy,” said Andrew Bohenko, co-chair of the Atlanta Falcons Youth Fund. “I saw kids not only learning about nutrition but also participating in yoga and meditation. It gave them a chance to slow down, be still, and in their own thoughts. It was really cool to see how engaged and involved they were. That’s what it’s all about!”
This partnership builds community from the youngest neighbor to the oldest, and it’s rooted in the belief that nutrition fuels potential. Whether it’s learning the cost of food or tasting locally grown produce, kids are gaining tools that will serve them for life.
“It’s about building community, kid by kid,” Andrew said. “And we’re grateful to be part of that work.”
Advancing Access and Opportunity with Cummins Inc.
Long-term change requires long-term commitment, and Cummins Inc. is helping make that change possible through its CARE initiative. Now in its second year, this partnership reflects a shared dedication to dismantling barriers and investing in thriving, equitable neighborhoods.
“Partnering with FCS was an easy decision,” said Meko Taylor, Atlanta CARE City Leader. “Cummins’ partnership with FCS expands our ability to drive meaningful, lasting change where it’s needed most.”
Together, we’re advancing work in three core areas:
- Housing Stability – Supporting homeownership and preserving affordable housing.
- Economic Opportunity – Equipping local entrepreneurs and small businesses.
- Empowerment – Strengthening residents’ capacity to lead in their own communities.
Cummins’ multi-year investment supports not just immediate needs, but long-term transformation that grows year after year.
Why I Give: Maddy’s Story
Partnership isn’t just about organizations—it’s about individuals who give their time, resources, and energy to fuel lasting change.
For Madeline Clounie, partnering with FCS is personal. As a monthly sustainer, member of the Young Professionals Board (YPB), and advocate through Coca-Cola’s employee matching gift program, Maddy is committed to supporting lasting, community-led change.
“Other organizations seem more conceptual, but with FCS being in the community, you can really see a tangible impact of the work,” Maddy explained. “It’s so close to the people it impacts.”
Her favorite memory? Volunteering at a youth Easter Egg Hunt. “That was the first time I really got to interact with the kids in the community. Being the hype woman while they searched for eggs was such a joy. It reminded me that a lot of the work FCS does in housing and economic development ultimately helps create a better future for them.”
For Maddy, those joyful experiences reflect something deeper: “FCS values proximity to the community and creates change from within, so it’s sustainable. That kind of lasting impact takes time, but anyone can be part of it. Even small donations of time or money make a difference.”
Partnership Makes the Difference
From church communities to corporate partners to individual donors, each story points to the same truth: transformation happens when we work together.
Because of partners like Buckhead Church, the Atlanta Falcons Youth Fund, Cummins Inc., and donors like Maddy, FCS can continue building thriving communities, where every neighbor has the opportunity to flourish.
And you can be part of that story too.
Become a monthly sustainer, community partner, or development partner today.
