Happy New Year, Greater Atlanta! We’ve set ten New Year’s resolutions to help kids, families, and the communities that surround them thrive this year. Starting today, we’re excited to hit the ground running towards our goals for creating change.
In 2026, we hope to…
1. Expand Learning Spaces to new neighborhoods.
This year, we’re growing our free community-based preschool program to reach even more families across Greater Atlanta. Every kid deserves a strong start, so this brings early opportunities even closer to home.
2. Boost 3rd grade reading scores by 5%
Right now, only 26% of Greater Atlanta kids are proficient readers by 4th grade—a gap that can shape their entire future. To help kids succeed academically, we’re creating change by expanding our science-backed Literacy & Justice for All instruction to more students this year.
3. Help 910 high school seniors complete their financial aid applications.
Our College Bound program helps students remove financial barriers to college access, one FAFSA completion at a time. FAFSA completion significantly increases a student’s chances of enrolling in college at all, with 92% of completers enrolling versus just 51% of those who do not.
4. Promote more food security and other access to basic needs.
Every day, our 211 Contact Center connects more than 1300+ neighbors across Greater Atlanta to critical resources like food, housing, and utility assistance. Alongside those efforts, we’re in the community tackling the hunger crisis head on, from school-based mini markets to large-scale partnerships with food banks and food rescue organizations.
5. Move more than 1,000 families into permanent housing.
Our Motel to Home program helps move families from unstable, week-to-week motel stays into safe, sustainable housing. In 2026, we aim for 500 of those families to include veterans and survivors of domestic abuse or trafficking—ensuring housing support reaches those who need it most.
6. Host another resident-led grantmaking cohort.
Last year, a group of Forest Park residents stepped up to drive change in their neighborhood by researching local needs and awarding a community grant. We believe that the best solutions arise from the community it serves, so this year, we look forward to facilitating our second resident-led effort to create change .
7. Create more apprenticeship opportunities for Greater Atlanta young adults.
Last year, we helped 355 Greater Atlanta youth gain real career experience through CareerReady ATL apprenticeships in high demand industries like construction, media and video production, plumbing, logistics, and HVAC. We hope to connect even more young adults to opportunities this year, prioritizing access for low-income, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and formerly in foster care youth.
8. Reach our goal of 1,000 families saving $500 for unexpected expenses.
Did you know that 1 in every 3 families would be unable to afford a $400 unexpected emergency? We help families build a safety net with our Financial Achievement Clubs and emergency savings match programs
9. Invest in a future where everyone, regardless of background, can thrive.
When we uplift communities that have historically been left behind, we create a brighter future for all. Our United for Racial Equity and Healing Fund and OUT Georgia Impact Fund are two ways that we create a more inclusive, equitable Greater Atlanta.
10. Help kids, families and communities across Greater Atlanta reach their potential.
Only 4% of children born into low-income households in our city escape poverty by adulthood—a statistic we’re determined to change. A child’s future shouldn’t be defined by what zip code or economic circumstances they’re born into. Every resolution we’ve set this year is about shifting those odds and creating change: expanding access to education, financial stability, access to basic needs, and career opportunity. Together, we can create a Greater Atlanta where everyone can thrive.
Now it’s your turn! As you’re writing your own set of New Year’s resolutions, would you consider adding giving back to organizations dedicated to helping your local community thrive?
Start your year off by doing good. The best way to help us make our resolutions a reality is through donating today.