AUGUSTA, Ga. – In an effort to foster community spirit and recovery after Hurricane Helene, Georgia Military College (GMC) hosted its first annual Inaugural Block Party today. The event, which took place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the GMC Augusta campus, aimed to bring together local residents with food, music, crafts, an auto show, and much more.

Dr. Danielle McKeithen, Senior Department Chair at GMC Augusta, spoke on the importance of the event, emphasizing the need for community connection after the storm. “A lot of people are left wondering, where is the community?” she said. “What can the community do for us? So, we figured a block party has always been rooted in bringing people together. We wanted to create one central place to serve as a reminder that we are your community college.”

The block party was designed for all ages, offering a wide range of activities including a giveaway, pet adoption opportunities, a bouncy house, and vendor booths. The event also served as an outreach initiative for GMC to connect with potential students and encourage further engagement with the college.

“We’re here to provide a day of fun and reestablish our presence in the community,” said Whitney Lewis, Director at GMC Augusta. “As a two-year junior college with a growing online bachelor’s program, we’re also heavily involved in local high schools through dual enrollment. There’s something for everyone in the family to participate in and learn more about the educational opportunities we offer.”

Attendees were excited to take part in the celebration, with many expressing their support for the event’s community-driven focus. “I’m an advocate educator, and I believe people should have the opportunity to explore the various educational options available here in the CSRA,” said Kirshana Welcher-Green, an attendee. “I came out to support, and I encourage others to do the same so they can understand the benefits of education and everything that’s happening here in Augusta.”

The Inaugural Block Party not only provided a day of entertainment and fun but also served as a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of the Augusta community. Through events like these, GMC Augusta continues to strengthen its ties with the local population, while also promoting educational opportunities for all.