#CommunitySupport | AM 1180 Radio

May 1, 2026

Summerville Announces Sensory-Friendly “Touch A Truck” Event for Special Needs Community

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The City of Summerville is gearing up for a unique and inclusive community event designed for individuals with special needs.

Mayor Rickey Hughes announced that Summerville will host a “Touch A Truck” sensory-friendly event on June 13th from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon on East Washington Street.

The event will feature a wide variety of vehicles and equipment, including police cars, fire trucks, ambulances, tractors, tow trucks, and more. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the vehicles up close in a welcoming, reduced-noise environment tailored to sensory sensitivities.

Organizers say the event is focused on creating a friendly, supportive atmosphere with hands-on exploration, allowing children and families to interact with local first responders and community helpers in a comfortable setting.

Free Kona Ice will also be available, thanks to sponsorships from United Community Bank and Southeast First National Bank.

Mayor Hughes expressed appreciation to local exhibitors and sponsors for helping bring the event to life, noting it will be a special day for families across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia.

The community is invited to come out and enjoy a morning of learning, exploration, and fun in a safe and inclusive environment.

April 27, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Georgia Power Promotes Income-Based Energy Discount Program

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Georgia Power is encouraging eligible customers to apply for its Income-Qualified Discount program, which is designed to help lower monthly energy bills for households that meet income and program requirements.

April 25, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Red Cross Urges Blood Donations As Spring Activities Impact Supply

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The American Red Cross is encouraging donors to give blood now to help hospitals and transfusion centers remain prepared to care for patients in need.

Officials say the combination of warmer weather, outdoor activities, and spring travel can disrupt regular donation routines, leading to a drop in available blood products. Even small changes in schedules can have a significant impact on the blood supply.

Donors of all blood types, including those giving for the first time, are urged to make an appointment in the coming days or weeks.

To help encourage donations, the Red Cross is offering incentives for those who give. Individuals who donate between April 13 and April 30, 2026, will receive a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice. Those who donate from May 1 through May 17, 2026, will receive a $20 Amazon gift card by email.

Appointments can be scheduled by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS, or using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

April 23, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

New Kennel Walls Under Construction At Chattooga County Animal Shelter

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Major improvements are now underway at the Chattooga County Animal Shelter, where construction has officially begun on new solid block walls inside the kennel area.

April 23, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Salvation Army of Rome Seeks Donations, Volunteers This Spring

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The Salvation Army of Rome is encouraging continued community support this spring as the organization works year-round to provide services to residents in both Floyd and Chattooga counties.

Major Hank Harwell, Corps Officer, says while the nonprofit receives strong support during the holiday season, donations are needed throughout the year to sustain ongoing programs and assistance efforts.

Those wishing to contribute can donate online at www.salvationarmyrome.org, or mail or deliver donations to the Salvation Army office located at 317 East 1st Avenue in Rome.

In addition to monetary donations, the organization is also seeking gently used items for the Salvation Army Rome Family Store. Volunteers are also needed to help support operations and outreach efforts.

The Salvation Army of Rome serves individuals and families across Floyd and Chattooga counties, providing vital assistance to those in need.

Local donors and volunteers will be recognized during National Salvation Army Week, set for May 11–17, with an Appreciation Luncheon scheduled for May 12 at the Rome Civic Center.

For more information, call 706-291-4745.

April 20, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

CRC Chattooga to Host Volunteer and Donor Appreciation Dinner April 25

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CRC Chattooga is inviting volunteers, donors, churches, and mission supporters to a special Volunteer and Donor Appreciation Dinner on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. at the North Summerville Gym, located behind the current CRC Food Pantry.

April 17, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Berry College’s First Day Of Giving Raises Nearly $500K

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The Berry College community came together in a big way for its first-ever Day of Giving on April 8, rallying around the theme “We All Row!”

April 16, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Special Needs Support Group Meeting Set For April 25 In Chattooga County

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Families across Chattooga County are invited to attend an upcoming Special Needs Support Group meeting later this month.

The Speak Life Chattooga County Special Needs Family Support Group will meet on Saturday, April 25 at 11 a.m. at DIRT Pour Coffee and Café in Summerville.

Organizers say the event will feature guest speaker Judge Gary Woods, who will discuss important topics including guardianship and wills. In addition, parents and caregivers are expected to share personal experiences and advice, particularly focusing on the transition period after high school, including ages 18 to 22.

The meeting is open to all families, caregivers, and individuals with special needs of all ages. Organizers emphasize that the event is free, requires no registration, and is open to those both inside and outside of Chattooga County.

Attendees are encouraged to come for support, information, and fellowship, as well as to connect with others in the community.

April 16, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

Walk To Support Survivors Set For April 24 In Rome

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Community members across Northwest Georgia are invited to take part in the 2026 Walk to Support Survivors, scheduled for Friday, April 24 in downtown Rome.

April 12, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Urgent Plea Issued For Senior Dog At Chattooga County Shelter

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An urgent call for help is going out from volunteers supporting the Chattooga County Animal Shelter, as a senior dog struggles to adjust after being surrendered.