Connecting Henry’s efforts in education recently got a boost from local residents.

More than 100 people attended the third annual “Celebration of Hope: A Community Benefit Luncheon,” held November 17 at the Shiloh Community Life Center in McDonough.

The event raised approximately $4,000 to go toward Connecting Henry’s Students Working To Achieve Greatness (SWAG) Program, which serves students 16-24 years old in Henry County.

“We are thankful for the support of the benefit luncheon,” said Susan Crumbley, Executive Director for Connecting Henry. “It’s an honor for Connecting Henry to be celebrated for its work in the community. We truly appreciate all of the community support.”

The luncheon also highlighted public service in the area, recognizing six local community leaders. Recipients of the 2018 Public Service Award included: Pastor Spencer T. O’Neal and Coylitia O’Neal of Global Impact Christian Ministries; Dave and Jennifer Newman of Operation Lunchbox; and Sylvia Dennis-Wray of the Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers Support Group. A new Trailblazer Award went to teen journalist Tyrik Wynn.

The luncheon also featured performance by vocalist Kezia Alford and comedian Treandos Thornton, and a keynote address by community advocate Kevin McNeil.

Crumbley also thanked Shana Thornton, host of the “Let’s Talk America” radio show, and the steering committee, sponsors and donors for supporting the luncheon. Steering committee members included Sonji Monroe, Yolanda Browne, Tiffany Gordon, Cassandra Ryan, Mildred Reed, George Jeburk, Brandi Pinckney, Lasonji Rivers and Deborah Lockhart.

Connecting Henry Finance Manager, Janice Lea Jacoby, offered her “sincere thanks and admiration” to Shana Thornton for hosting the benefit.

“Her continued support, enthusiasm, dedication, and passion for our program has increased awareness of who we are and what we do in our community,” said Jacoby. “Proceeds received from the benefit luncheon will go toward vocational training such as Hospitality and Tourism, Customer Service, Bilingual Medical Interpreter, Plumbing Apprenticeship, Child Development Associate, Audio Engineering Technician, and Logistics.”