The 4th Annual Celebration of Hope Community Benefit Luncheon was held on Saturday, November 16 at the Shiloh Community Life Center in McDonough.

  The benefit luncheon put the spotlight on public service in Henry County. This year 8 different local community leaders were recognized for their altruistic service. The 2019 Public Service Award recipients included Reverend Dr. Terrance Gattis and Reverend Dr. Elaine Gattis of Mt. Olive  Baptist Church, Sandra Gravely of A Friend’s House, Sabrina Crawford of Gigi’s House, Tiffany Austin of the Henry County School System and Lori Harris, Linda Clark and David Clark of the Our World School.

  Several area youth were also recognized for their academic and community service. This year’s youth honorees included Alexander Monroe, Treandos Thornton, Jade McCray, Brittney Browne, Noah Thornton, Bryce Browne and Brooklyn Greene.

  The annual luncheon highlighted both the impact and value of community leadership and service. The luncheon’s program shared the efforts of the Students Working to Achieve Greatness (SWAG) Program of Connecting Henry, Incorporated. Proceeds from the community event benefited the SWAG Program, which is a public regional GED program for students 16 to 24 years old. Over $2,000 was donated to the non-profit education entity. The award-winning Giselle DiBlasi School of Ballet, popular family comedian Treandos and acclaimed poet Steaven Misher performed at the event. Teen journalist Tyrik Wynn served as the Master of Ceremonies. Acclaimed community advocate Careshia Moore was the keynote speaker.

  The volunteer host committee included Shana Thornton, Sonji Monroe, Deborah Lockhart, Tiffany Gordon, Mildred Reed, LaSonji Rivers, Brandi Pickney, Cassandra Ryan, Yolanda Browne and George Jeburk. The luncheon is presented annually by Let’s Talk America Radio.