A Thriving Southwest Georgia is a regional well-being initiative working to build a healthier, stronger, and more vibrant Southwest Georgia. The initiative brings together leaders and partners from a 16-county area, including Baker, Calhoun, Clay, Colquitt, Decatur, Dougherty, Early, Grady, Lee, Miller, Mitchell, Randolph, Seminole, Terrell, Thomas, and Worth counties.

Since August 2024, community leaders from throughout the region have participated in meetings and conversations to identify opportunities for improving Southwest Georgia's future. Through that process, economic development was selected as the initiative's starting focus.

A 12-member Steering Committee has since been meeting monthly to move the work forward and develop three economic development strategies designed to strengthen the region.

During the September Community Update Meeting, participants will:

• Learn about the journey that brought the initiative to this point;
• Explore the three strategies developed to support Southwest Georgia's future;
• Hear what's ahead as the initiative prepares to move into its next phase; and
• Share feedback to help ensure the strategies reflect the needs and priorities of Southwest Georgia communities.

Community input will play an important role in determining how these strategies move forward. Leaders, partners, and stakeholders throughout Southwest Georgia are encouraged to attend, share their perspectives, and help shape the future of the region.

For questions, contact the A Thriving Southwest Georgia Steering Committee at SWGA@GAThrivesTogether.org.