Thank you so much to all of our friends and supporters for another fantastic Grass Roots Justice Awards! Last Thursday, we gathered together to celebrate those who are fighting for a fairer, more just Georgia. Check out our recap & photos of the event below!
Sheandra Clark Volunteers of the Year - Trinity Presbyterian Church
Members of Trinity have been involved with GJP since 1993. A self-described church of lawyers, over the last year in particular the members of Trinity Presbyterian have shown up over and over again to volunteer and help those impacted by the criminal legal system. For this dedication, GJP awarded Trinity Presbyterian Church the Sheandra Clark Volunteers of the Year Award.
Pictured left to right: GJP Staff Attorney & Pro Bono Coordinator Erin Donohue-Koehler; Velma Tilley and Rev. Rebekah LeMon of Trinity Presbyterian Church.
Community Partner of the Year - Josiah "Jazz" Watts
Jazz Watts has dedicated his life and work to strategizing and connecting with community members in Glynn County and beyond to bring resources and transformation to his beloved community. GJP has had the absolute pleasure of not only having Jazz as an intern many years ago but last year we were fortunate to be able to partner with Jazz and other Glynn community organizations to bring our first second chance record clearing event to Glynn County. For his key role in bringing expungement services to Glynn County, we were proud to award Jazz with the Community Partner of the Year Award.
Pictured left to right: GJP Staff Attorney Tiffany Gordon and Josiah “Jazz” Watts
Special Recognition - Senator Brian Strickland
Senator Strickland is a true friend to GJP. He authored SB 105 in 2021, which we’ve already seen reduce the probation population by thousands. As Chairman of the Judiciary Committee in the Senate, he is a sounding board as we develop our agendas each year. And this year, he continued his work to ensure second chances for Georgians by being a champion for occupational licensing reform. GJP recognized Senator Strickland for his dedication to and support of second chances for Georgians.
Pictured left to right: GJP Policy Manager Wade Askew and Senator Brian Strickland