DeKalb County’s Good Neighbors Day Out: A Day of Unity and Community Spirit

Filled with fun activities for all ages, DeKalb County’s Good Neighbors Day Out on East Memorial Drive, hosted by The East Memorial Drive Revitalization Foundation (EMDRF) and the DeKalb County’s Planning and Sustainability Department, painted a vivid picture of community strength and togetherness. Held recently, this event marked a significant milestone in the area’s revitalization efforts, bringing residents, businesses, community leaders, and local organizations together for a day of celebration, collaboration, and connection.

At the heart of the event was the spirit of neighborliness. Families, friends, and local leaders gathered on East Memorial Drive (278 East to 78 East), transforming it into a bustling hub of community. The atmosphere buzzed with laughter, music, and the chatter of people connecting with one another. The event served as a powerful reminder of the community’s potential when they come together for a common purpose.

Central to the success of the Good Neighbors Day Out was the generous sponsorship and unwavering support from Signarama (Lilburn/Stone Mountain), The HYPE Magazine, CommunityMD, Maverick Global Distribution, The Atrium Event Center, Nostalgia Restaurant in Stone Mountain, Lowe’s Home Improvement Stores, DeKalb Chambers, Phenomenal Girls Group Home, ChickFila (Memorial Dr. Stone Mountain), Ours Studios, The Center for Truth and Healing (CFTH), The Home Depot, Color Me Woman, Cultivated Creatives, FOSS Luxury Events, Entertainment to Remember, volunteers, and others, played a pivotal role in making this event a reality. Their commitment to community engagement shone brightly, illuminating the path for others to follow.The event featured an array of activities, including live music performances by The Mako Girls and Moxie, games and prizes for the kids, local vendors, food, refreshments, and an award show honoring DeKalb County Community Heroes. (See a full list of the recipients below). Local businesses showcased their products, and community organizations disseminated valuable information about resources and services available to residents. Additionally, guests were joined by the presence of District 4 Commissioner Steve Bradshaw, Georgia State Senator Kim Jackson, District 5 Commissioner Mereda Johnson, as well as several candidates vowing for local Commissioner seats.

Beyond the festivities including the excitement and fun of watching our State Senator Kim Jackson do the “Cupid Shuffle”, the event held a deeper significance. It fostered a sense of belonging, instilled civic pride, and inspired a new wave of community-driven initiatives to be led by EMDRF‘s Founding President, Her Excellency Shanta Lana Hereford, and DeKalb County’s Planning and Sustainability Department led by Larry Washington. The success of this day underscores the transformative power of unity, reminding everyone of the incredible achievements possible when neighbors come together with a shared vision for their community.

As the echoes of laughter and the warmth of connections made during the Good Neighbors Day Out linger, the community stands at the threshold of a promising future. With continued support from sponsors and community leaders, there is a profound belief that East Memorial Drive will not only become a regional destination but also a shining example of community-driven progress.

In the spirit of togetherness and shared dreams, DeKalb County’s Good Neighbors Day Out on East Memorial Drive stands as a testament to the strength of community spirit and the boundless potential of united efforts. With each handshake, smile, and shared moment, East Memorial Drive paves the way for a future where neighbors continue to thrive together, making their community a better place for all.

Brand Rising, East Memorial Drive!

Full List of DeKalb County Good Neighbors Day Award Recipients

Booker “Terry” Brantley III – The Atrium Event Center – Community Pillar Award
Lecester “Bill” Allen – New Black WallStreet Market – Lifetime Achievement Award
Deanna Johnson Cauthen – Neighbor of the Year Award
Joe Jean Borowski – Community Volunteer Award
Home Depot (Stone Mountain Highway) – Community Improvement Award
Home Depot (Wages Dr. Decatur) – Community Improvement Award
Lowe’s (Austell) – Community Improvement Award
CommunityMD – Community Health Award
Lorraine Cochran-Johnson – Community Service Award
DeKalb Chambers – Community Empowerment Award
LaKeisha Clarke – Kids Sew Genius – Community Outreach Award
Atlanta Hawks – Community Development Award
Memorial Drive Ministries – Community Empowerment Award
Mr. and Mrs. Hull – Bojangle’s – Business of the Year Award
New Birth Missionary Baptist Church – Community Church of the Year Award
Ron Bivins- Ours Studios – The Community Trailblazer Award
Larry Washington – The Community Service Award
Lou Walker Senior Center – The Community Center of the Year Award
Enimini Antia-Obong – Community Hero Award

To learn more about The East Memorial Drive Revitalization Foundation, visit their website at https://eastmemorialdrive.org.

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Tags: Commissioner steve bradshaw, Commissionr Mereda Johnson, dekalb county, east memorial drive, good neighbors awards, her excellency shanta lana hereford, larry washington, National Good Neighbors Day

About the Author

H.E. Shanta Lana Hereford Her Excellency Shanta Lana Hereford is a visionary leader known for her dedication to community development and economic empowerment. She is the COO of The HYPE Magazine and loves to write about her many interests including Black Empowerment, Education, Entrepreneurship, Entertainment, Arts, Health & Wellness, Travel, and more.