ARPA in Athens, GA Highlight Series

ACCGov People & Belonging Department

The ARPA Highlight Series, presented by ACCGov, spotlights the programs and resources made possible by Athens-Clarke County Unified Government's ARPA funding allocations. This podcast aims to educate and inform our community about the work being done, the lives being changed, and the opportunities being created through this funding. Join us as we hear from the individuals and organizations driving these initiatives, working to ensure that our community benefits in the best possible ways. 

Episodes

  1. 07/30/2025

    Episode 10 – The Final Word: Mayor Girtz Reflects on ARPA’s Lasting Impact

    In this special edition season one finale episode of the ARPA Highlight Series, we’re sitting down with Athens-Clarke County Mayor Kelly Girtz to reflect on the broader impact of ARPA funding across the community. From affordable housing and youth development to mental health and economic development, we’ll explore how these investments have shaped critical programs and empowered local organizations to meet the needs of Athens residents. Join us as Mayor Girtz shares his perspective on the lessons learned, the challenges overcome, and the vision for a more equitable and resilient future for Athens-Clarke County.

    Episode 10 – The Final Word: Mayor Girtz Reflects on ARPA’s Lasting Impact

  2. 06/06/2025

    Episode 9 – Destined for Greatness: Investing in Youth, Building Community with Destined Inc.

    In this episode, we’re reflecting on the ARPA-funded impact the CNC Athens program had on the success of Destined Inc. and its mission to empower youth through mentorship, leadership development, and academic enrichment. This initiative is helping young people unlock their potential, build self-confidence, and chart a path toward purposeful futures. We’ll explore how the program is shaping tomorrow’s leaders in Athens, the unique challenges local youth face, and the lasting influence of intentional support and guidance in building brighter futures.

    Episode 9 – Destined for Greatness: Investing in Youth, Building Community with Destined Inc.

  3. 05/09/2025

    Episode 8 – Her Path, Her Power: How Encourage H.E.R. Invests in the Next Generation

    In this episode, we’re reflecting on the ARPA-funded impact the CNC Athens program had on the success of Encourage H.E.R. Academy and its mission to empower young women in the community. Through vital resources and mentorship, this initiative helps young women navigate academic, professional, and personal challenges. We’ll explore how the program is uplifting the next generation of leaders in Athens, the unique barriers these women face, and the transformative role of community support in creating pathways to success and self-sufficiency.

    Episode 8 – Her Path, Her Power: How Encourage H.E.R. Invests in the Next Generation

  4. 04/18/2025

    Episode 7 – Opening Doors: How First American Bank & Trust is Making Homeownership Possible

    In this episode, we’re shining a light on the ARPA-funded work of First American Bank & Trust and their Down Payment Assistance Program. This initiative is helping first-time homebuyers overcome financial barriers to homeownership by providing critical support with down payments. We’ll explore how this program is opening doors for families across Athens, the challenges many face in affording a home, and the long-term impact this support is having on building generational wealth and fostering stable communities.

    Episode 7 – Opening Doors: How First American Bank & Trust is Making Homeownership Possible

  5. 04/17/2025

    Episode 6 – Beyond the Board: How Chess & Community is Building Leaders Who Think Before They Move

    In this episode, we’re highlighting the ARPA-funded work of Chess & Community. This organization empowers youth by fostering critical thinking, leadership, and personal growth through chess and educational activities. We’ll explore how the organization addresses the challenges facing young people, the collaborative efforts with other organizations that amplify its reach, and the positive outcomes they’ve achieved. We'll also dive into how these partnerships are creating a lasting impact on the broader community.

    Episode 6 – Beyond the Board: How Chess & Community is Building Leaders Who Think Before They Move

  6. 04/15/2025

    Episode 5 – Protecting the Past, Securing the Future: Historic Athens’ Equitable Home Preservation Initiative

    In this episode, we’re shining a light on the ARPA-funded work of Historic Athens and their Equitable Home Preservation Initiative. This initiative is working to rehabilitate historic homes, preserve affordable housing, and prevent community displacement while honoring the cultural heritage of Athens neighborhoods. We’ll explore how this program is helping residents stay in their homes, the challenges faced in historic preservation, and the long-term impact on the community.

    Episode 5 – Protecting the Past, Securing the Future: Historic Athens’ Equitable Home Preservation Initiative

  7. 09/13/2024

    Episode 4 – ARPA in Action: The Boys & Girls Club's DPI Program Paving the Way for Brighter Futures

    In this episode, we’re shining a spotlight on the ARPA-funded Delinquency Prevention Initiative by the Boys & Girls Club of Athens. This program focuses on guiding at-risk youth toward brighter futures through mentorship, education, and support. We'll delve into how the program addresses the root causes of delinquency, the strategic partnerships that amplify its impact, and the positive outcomes they’ve achieved and the broader impact on our community.

    Episode 4 – ARPA in Action: The Boys & Girls Club's DPI Program Paving the Way for Brighter Futures

  8. 08/16/2024

    Episode 3 – Exploring The Ark and Family Promise’s Eviction Prevention Program

    In this episode, we will be highlighting the ARPA-funded Eviction Prevention Program by The Ark and Family Promise. You'll hear about their crucial collaboration to provide homelessness prevention services, along with the positive outcomes they’ve achieved for individuals and families in our community.

    Episode 3 – Exploring The Ark and Family Promise’s Eviction Prevention Program

  9. 08/09/2024

    Episode 2 – Advantage Behavioral Health Systems: A Deep Dive into Their Hotel Voucher Program

    In this episode, we will be highlighting the ARPA-funded programs by Advantage Behavioral Health Systems. You'll hear about the crucial homelessness, mental health, and wellness services they provide and the positive outcomes they achieve for individuals and families in our community.

    Episode 2 – Advantage Behavioral Health Systems: A Deep Dive into Their Hotel Voucher Program

  10. 07/31/2024

    Episode 1 – Meet the ARPA Four

    In this inaugural episode, we will introduce you to the ARPA team, also known as the ARPA Four. These individuals are leading initiatives focused on youth development and violence prevention, addressing homelessness, improving behavioral health services, increasing affordable housing options, and supporting business development and workforce growth. Join us as we explore their efforts and see how these initiatives are transforming our community and creating lasting positive change.

    Episode 1 – Meet the ARPA Four
  • 10 Episodes

About

The ARPA Highlight Series, presented by ACCGov, spotlights the programs and resources made possible by Athens-Clarke County Unified Government's ARPA funding allocations. This podcast aims to educate and inform our community about the work being done, the lives being changed, and the opportunities being created through this funding. Join us as we hear from the individuals and organizations driving these initiatives, working to ensure that our community benefits in the best possible ways. 

Information

  • Creator
    ACCGov People & Belonging Department
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    10
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 ARPA in Athens, GA Highlight Series
  • Show Website
    ARPA in Athens, GA Highlight Series