New Year, New Chance to Advance the Lives of Children in Need

Each year in the US, over half a million Black children are born, accounting for about 15% of all children. Sadly, Black children continue to face unique challenges, such as systemic inequities in education and healthcare as well as disproportionate rates of economic insecurity throughout their childhoods. But there is HOPE, thanks to the many organizations across the country, like ATL: Advance the Lives (ATL), working tirelessly to improve the quality of life for Black children so they not only survive but thrive. 

In 2024, ATL helped change the lives of countless children and families in some of Atlanta’s poorest neighborhoods as part of our Black Joy Fund. Through our Black Joy Fund, we support several Atlanta-area after-school programs that serve as safety nets for young children who need a safe haven to retreat to after school. This includes providing access to unforgettable joyous experiences infused with cultural enrichment, meeting new connections, and other growth opportunities often out of reach for children in their communities. The goal is to ensure every Black child living in vulnerable communities across Atlanta is given an equal opportunity to have their hearts, minds, and dreams nurtured. 

After-school programs located in at-risk communities are often the first place a child may turn to report their needs or a family emergency. In these cases, our Black Joy Fund provides vital resources to help these children and their families navigate unexpected emergencies, such as the need for temporary housing, clothing, and food.

Over the past two years, we’ve seen a significant increase in the need for vital services provided by after-school programs, which is why we must continue to do all we can to stand in the gap for these young children who need our support.

It takes a village to sustain the sacred work ATL is doing to ensure Atlanta's Black Youth living in at-risk communities get an opportunity to experience the joy and wonder of childhood without the burden of navigating unfair and unjust systemic barriers. That’s why we need your help. Your financial donation, whether small or large will help give children living in Atlanta’s most vulnerable communities a chance at a brighter tomorrow and a brighter future.