MACON, Ga. — A Bibb County church is trying to make sure kids stay out of trouble not only during the school year, but during the summer as well.
Pastor Paul Little says his church wants to make sure schools and people in the community know they are a resource for them. That's why he and community partners are starting the Trailblazer Adopt-a-School Program. It's a new approach to make sure students have help in school and in their own backyards.
At Bibb Mt. Zion Baptist Church, it's fair to say every student has a plan.
"My name is Kirsten Perkins, I recently graduated from Mount de Sales Academy," said Perkins. "I want to go to Kennesaw State and major in biology to become a sports med physician."
Perkins is a product of the Next Level Program.
"I learned about leadership, abstinence, and I was able to get hands-on experience with different medical professionals, as well as working here," Perkins said.
It's because of students like Perkins that Pastor Little is pushing a new program.
"The adopt-a-school initiative came forth out of a conversation with our staff. We saw the need within the school systems for some healthy partnerships between businesses and local schools," Little said.
Starting in August, community leaders will go to Southfield Elementary and Southwest High School.
"What we want to do is create some healthy relationship and collaborations between the local schools and local businesses, because we realize there is a variety of needs within our schools, and we don't really believe one agency or organization can really deal with those issues," Little said.
Little says they'll offer mentoring, job training, college visits, and workshops for parents. Students can also take advantage of achievement incentives, college and career readiness, plus financial support in some cases.
"Understanding that when we have a healthy school system and healthy students, it really does impact the city from a holistic standpoint," Little said.
According to him, that means being there for students year round, so they have a shot at a brighter future.
"Just being successful and doing something that I love, and always striving to have more and to give back to others," Perkins said.
Little says they will also help kids with food and clothing if they need it, and teachers with school supplies.With the program kids can also participate in their free summer camp which keeps them productive during their school break.