by Checha Reddy (Georgia State University Intern)
Everything you experience prepares you for vital life lessons. To live in full bloom is living with hope and purpose, with imagination and vision. Central Outreach and Advocacy Center began at Central Presbyterian Church in a closet. A young woman came to the church in need of utilities and food. She spoke with one of the ministers who listened to her story and arranged for her to pick up some groceries for her family. From this humble beginning COAC was born and has become a great service and advocacy non-profit for those experiencing homelessness and those at risk of becoming homeless in the Metro Atlanta area.
When people, places, or things blossom, they embrace change and become stronger. As the need for services in the surrounding communities grew, so did the structure of the
agency evolved, and they continue to adjust their services to meet the societal changes. The vision began by serving a mother and children in need of food and utilities, but they have now created a conglomerate of services that open doors to overcome and prevent homelessness. Some of the supportive services are ID replacements, Food Stamps application and renewals, SSI/SSDI applications, Housing Assessments, Main Frame Program, Mail Check, and referrals.
As a blooming intern, you are taught a specific skillset, and each skill is like a bud. The more you learn, the more you unfold into this confident and skilled case manager who exhibits the essential skills and traits to thrive in the knowledge you have received. As a blossoming intern, you come into the fullness of your blooming as you grow in exercising your newfound skills. You evolve through a natural process of strategic learning that enhances your ability to serve with an unbiased attitude.
The key resources provided by COAC are to assist our guests and help them to regain stability and confidence. Everyone we serve is empowered to thrive as we assist in rebuilding their lives. A 63-year-old African American man who was experiencing homelessness is now permanently housed in “The Melody” housing development sponsored by the City of Atlanta. Through our services, this guest has evolved from being in a homeless situation to living as a permanent resident with case managers onsite. The purpose of COAC is to open doors to overcome and prevent homelessness by empowering guests to take the next steps toward self-sufficiency.