2024 GAGIVES ON GIVINGTUESDAY SHOWCASES NONPROFITS AS THE UNIFIERS OF COMMUNITIES

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/28/24

Global Giving Movement Spotlights How Nonprofits Are First Responders in Times of Crisis and Common Ground for Many in Communities

With the season of giving upon us, it’s time to show our appreciation for those who have supported our communities throughout the year with unwavering commitment and a staggering level of accomplishment. All Georgians benefit, in multiple ways, from the outstanding work of our nonprofits. In this year especially, they’ve truly shown up for us all.

GAgives on GivingTuesday, hosted by the Georgia Center for Nonprofits (GCN), is once again shining a spotlight on the impact of nonprofits across the state, showcasing the ways they serve as the great unifiers of our communities in times of conflict and crisis. Since its launch in 2012, GAgives on GivingTuesday has given Georgians the chance to demonstrate their generosity. Naturally, they have risen to the occasion with record-breaking giving year after year, both in the number of individual gifts and in total dollars raised. Coinciding with the international day of giving celebrated the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, this year’s GAgives on GivingTuesday will be held Dec. 3, 2024, when Georgians are asked to get into the true spirit of the giving season following the annual shopping-centered tradition of Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

“This year has been especially trying for Georgia nonprofits as they’ve been called upon for extra resources and manpower, whether that’s a result of the devastation of this year’s storms, the national housing crisis, community support for those directly impacted by the Apalachee High School attack, inflation, or a host of other situations,” said GCN President & CEO Karen Beavor. “No matter the crisis, nonprofits have rallied to support their communities, and GAgives on GivingTuesday is our time to support them in return.”

Last year’s GAgives on GivingTuesday set another new record, with more than 13,800 donors contributing to more than 1,050 organizations through the official GAgives.org platform alone. On that single platform, one of many activated for the event, $3.06 million was donated, exceeding the total amount donated through GAgives.org in 2022 by nine percent. In total, $33.17 million was raised, a 13 percent increase from 2022.

All registered 501(c)3 nonprofits in Georgia can participate in this special day of giving. Nonprofits are invited to raise funds through GAgives.org, a powerful but easy-to-use online fundraising platform featuring complementary resources to assist in maximizing donations – from donation-motivating prizes sponsored by official GAgives partners to toolkits, marketing materials, complimentary online trainings, GAgives success stories, and more, all designed to help nonprofits engage their volunteers, staff, board members, and supporters.

“Nonprofits impact the lives of every one of us throughout the year, whether they’re housing the animal that becomes a beloved family pet, protecting the stunning views along a park trail, staging the latest community theater performance, or doing the research to combat a disease experienced by ourselves or a loved one,” said GCN’s Karen Beavor. “Nonprofits are the thread stitching together the fabric of our community, representing the common causes that we all believe in – care for our neighbors, quality of life, and shared culture – despite how our other beliefs may differ. Let’s come together once again to show our nonprofits how much we appreciate them and break yet another record this GAgives on Giving Tuesday.”

This year, sponsors are encouraging Georgians to showcase their support for their favorite organizations by giving nonprofits that registered for prizes the chance to win additional funds – through “Power Hours,” “Golden Tickets,” and leaderboard contests. Those generous sponsors include WestRock, Arby’s Foundation, and Aprio. Additional GAgives support comes from The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Cox Enterprises, Georgia News Network, Outfront Media, WSB-TV Family 2 Family, the Coca-Cola Foundation, and others.

Since 2012, GAgives has galvanized Georgians to be a part of the state’s largest giving movement, totaling $155.97 million in donations to date from over 560,000 individual gifts.

Created, executed, and overseen by GCN for the direct benefit of Georgia nonprofits, the GAgives on GivingTuesday campaign is enhanced by generous sponsors, media partners, and participating organizations. Together, their contributions and creativity amplify the impact for nonprofits, allowing nonprofits in turn to continue operations for, and enhance their offerings to, the communities of Georgia.

GCN considers it an honor to champion Georgia’s largest giving movement and serve as the official state lead for GivingTuesday, a generosity campaign covering all 50 states and more than 150 countries.

About GAgives

Led by the Georgia Center for Nonprofits, GAgives on GivingTuesday aims to bring attention to the work and worth of the nonprofit sector. Since its founding in 2012, the GAgives movement has raised more than $155.97 million from more than 560,000 individual gifts for the nonprofits across Georgia working tirelessly for positive and lasting change.

About GivingTuesday

Launched by the 92nd Street Y in 2012 and housed in its Belfer Center for Innovation & Social Impact, GivingTuesday is a global movement inspiring people to take collaborative action for their local communities and contribute to the causes they believe in. Throughout the year, the movement reaches millions of people, with campaigns and activities in all 50 states and 150 countries, culminating on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. See the latest updates on Instagram.

About the Georgia Center for Nonprofits

The Georgia Center for Nonprofits builds thriving communities by helping nonprofits succeed. Through a powerful mix of advocacy, solutions for nonprofit effectiveness, and insight-building tools, GCN provides nonprofits, board members, and donors with the tools they need to strengthen organizations that make a difference on important causes throughout Georgia. Learn more at gcn.org.

GET TORCHED AT TWO URBAN LICKS DURING GASTRO GARAGE POP-UP – BACK DEC 5 & 6

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/28/24

Fiery Dinner Series Featuring Eight Deconstructed Courses Cooked by Gastro Mechanics Wielding Blowtorches

Tickets on Sale for December 5th and 6th; Seatings Available at 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.

Known for its wood-fired cuisine, TWO urban licks is turning up the heat one last time this year with the help of Gastro Garage, the acclaimed experiential dining pop-up that has been captivating minds and mouths from L.A. to Abu Dhabi. Descending upon the beloved BeltLine dining institution for two high-energy nights and four shows the first week of December, adventurous guests will be treated to an eight-course, deconstructed dinner prepared by Gastro Mechanics wielding blowtorches.

Igniting the culinary scene, Gastro Garage will treat diners to a daring and delicious menu of torched and foam-infused creations, where molecular gastronomy transforms each dish into an explosion of textures and flavors. Diners can indulge in bold highlights like the Buffalo Blue Chips, the Piston Pizza Tank topped with mozzarella foam and a vibrant tomato basil purée, and the Gastro Burger Tank featuring rich cheddar foam and perfectly torched Wagyu beef. The adventure continues with the Short Ribs Drill Bit, boasting tender Japanese-marinated short rib, and extends to imaginative courses like the Carrot Pop with maple-glazed baby carrots kissed by flame, the Naked Salmon Drill Bit enhanced with sesame oil and Béarnaise foam, and the Pistol Peach Tank, a sweet and spicy symphony of cream cheese foam and black pepper peach purée. For a grand finale, the Princess Buttercup Tank delights with a decadent blend of double chocolate foam, torched sweet peanut purée, and a playful Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup twist.

The Gastro Garage pop-up at TWO urban licks will be held on Thursday, December 5th and Friday, December 6th, with seatings available at 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Space is limited—reserve by calling TWO at 404-522-4622 or book online via OpenTable here. At $85 per person plus tax and gratuity, each ticket includes one shot, one cocktail, and an eight-course dinner.

NETHERWORLD BRINGS FRIGHTFUL FUN TO THE HOLIDAY SEASON WITH ONE-DAY-ONLY LIGHTS ON EXPERIENCE

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/27/24

America’s Favorite Haunted Attraction to Give Exclusive
Lights On + Effects Off Experience Saturday, Dec. 14

 NETHERWORLD Haunted House is back with a spooktacular offering this holiday season! For fans of fear and fright, the #1 haunt in America, NETHERWORLD, will reopen on Saturday, Dec. 14 for one day only to host VIP Lights On Tours. Thrill-seeking guests will be guided by knowledgeable staff members on a detailed tour of NETHERWORLD haunts featuring an intimate look at the animatronics, creatures, and high-tech features that make it one of the nation’s most visited haunted attractions each year.
 
“We’re excited to bring back our lights on tour this year!” said Ben Armstrong, NETHERWORLD Haunted House Co-Creator. “It’s the one opportunity we offer that gives true haunted house fanatics, and those who love scary sights as much as we do, an expansive look at everything that goes into the production of this legendary attraction. It really gives those who love the Halloween season one more taste of their favorite time of year.”
 
Tour-goers will get to see the stunning details of the NETHERWORLD 2024 haunts, WAKE THE DEAD and MR. GRENDEL’S BIRTHDAY PARTY OF HORRORS. With the lights on and effects off, guests in small, intimate groups will be led by a knowledgeable guide who will deeply explore the storylines, operations, and history behind the attractions, including discussions of movie sets, props from other classic haunts, and more. The event will also feature photo opportunities at select predetermined locations inside the haunts, and each person will receive a free souvenir printed photo to remember the occasion, as well as access to the NETHERWORLD House of Creeps Monster Museum.
 
Lights On Tour tickets are the perfect early holiday gift for the Halloween enthusiast or NETHERWORLD superfan in your life. Tickets are on sale for $125 per person. Tour groups will contain a maximum of 7 people, and tours will be offered from 12-5 p.m. Each tour will last approximately 75 minutes. To check availability and purchase tickets, click here. It is highly encouraged to purchase tickets online in advance as this event has an extremely limited capacity and will sell out.
 
While the NETHERWORLD haunted houses are officially closed for the 2024 season, the fun lasts year-round at House of Creeps Monster Museum and Escape the NETHERWORLD, which offers five thrilling escape rooms, including Alien Terror: Doom of the Dark Horizon, Haunted: Curse of the Night Hag, Nosferatu: Van Helsings Secret, Sasquatch: Bigfoots Revenge, and Tiki Island: Attack of the Shark God.

SHOP AND CELEBRATE THANKSGIVING WEEKEND AT PIEDMONT HOLIDAY GIFT MARKET

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/27/24

Free, Two-Day Festival Centered Around the Spirit of Holiday Gifting

Saturday, November 30th and Sunday, December 1st

Get into the spirit of giving at the third annual Piedmont Holiday Gift Market. Presented by the Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces, the two-day event will take place in Piedmont Park in the heart of Midtown, Thanksgiving weekend, Saturday, November 30 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, December 1 2024  from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Festival goers are invited to sip on hot cocoa, listen to holiday music, and stroll through the park while exploring gift items from a variety of artists including painters, photographers, sculptors, glass blowers, leather and metalworkers, jewelers, and crafters. The Piedmont Holiday Gift Market (1071 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta, GA 30309) is free to attend for all ages and welcomes dogs. For more information, visit  www.facebook.com/PiedmontParkHolidayMarket and www.facebook.com/affps.  

RING IN THE HOLIDAY’S AT VIRGINIA HIGHLAND’S WINTERFEST

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/27/28

Virginia Highland’s Winterfest returns on Dec. 13-14, bringing holiday cheer to one of Atlanta’s favorite neighborhoods. 

The weekend kicks off Friday evening with the Tour of Lights Block Party on Arlington Place, featuring real-life reindeer, the brightest lights in the neighborhood, carnival games, a live band, and festive food and drinks. 

Saturday starts with the Jingle Jog, a 2.2-mile fun run down Lanier Blvd. Participants in festive costumes will ring in the season with jingling bells. Kids under 12 run for free, and race bibs offer discounts at local restaurants Doc Chey’s and Osteria 832. 

Following the jog, the Holiday Parade fills Lanier Blvd with holiday floats, characters, live music, and candy for the crowd. The parade leads into the main event, the Winterfest Gift Market, featuring over 70 local vendors selling handcrafted art, jewelry, and gifts. The festival area includes a Kids Corner that offers family-friendly attractions, including bounce houses, face painting, and free crafts. 

Make Winterfest a highlight of your holiday season! As one Virginia Highland resident shares, “we love this event! What a great way to celebrate the holiday season, bring the community together, and highlight some talent in the neighborhood.” 

For more information about Winterfest and its full schedule, visit the official website. 

“LAUGH, LLAMAS AND PAJAMAS” EVENT RETURNS TO UPTOWN ATLANTA ON NOVEMBER 21 – FREE!

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/15/24

Get in the festive spirit with friendly lamas, a comedy show, new restaurants and more along Main Street

On Thursday, Nov. 21, the community is invited to kick off the holiday season at Uptown Atlanta, the 47-acre mixed-use destination, for the fourth annual “Laughs, Llamas and Pajamas” event. Hosted from 6 to 8 p.m. in a new location on Main Street, this year’s event will feature the return of everyone’s favorite llamas wearing pajamas, a comedy show, crafts for kiddos and more. The event is free to attend and registration is now open. 

Beginning at 6 p.m., guests can begin mingling with a group of friendly, pajama-wearing llamas from Wits End Llama Consortium. New this year, the event will be hosted on Uptown’s Main Street, giving guests the opportunity to interact with the llamas while taking advantage of Uptown’s newly opened retail and restaurants. As is tradition, the community is encouraged to wear cozy pajamas to meet and greet the llamas. During the event, attendees can experience bites and beverages from Uptown’s globally inspired restaurants: El Gordo, J’ouvert Caribbean Kitchen, Bene Korean Steakhouse, Chow À La Carte at Uptown Test Kitchen and 26 Thai Kitchen and Bar. 

At 7 p.m. Whole World Improv will take the stage for a hilarious, family friendly comedy show. During the show, parents can keep the kiddos entertained as they craft their own mini llama courtesy of Daytime Moon Creativity. Throughout the event, attendees are encouraged to support local nonprofit Atlanta Mission by donating pairs of new pajamas at the check-in table. Atlanta Mission is a homeless shelter serving more than 1,000 men, women and children across Atlanta and Northeast Georgia. 

“Now that we have enlivened Main Street with new retail and restaurants, we couldn’t wait to bring the community back together for everyone’s favorite event of the season, but this time, at the heart of the property,” said Mahesh Mani, senior vice president of asset management for Rubenstein Partners. “Beyond gathering with our neighbors and tenants, this event is an incredible opportunity to support the inspiring work of Atlanta Mission and kick off the season of giving.”

Convenient event parking is located at the Uptown City Center Deck. Parking will cost $5 for the first two hours. In addition, Main Street at Uptown is just steps away from the Lindbergh MARTA station. Cost of food and beverage at the event will vary.

In addition to the new restaurants, Uptown recently opened The Commodore, a retro barber shop, and Roundhouse Kickboxing, a dynamic fitness studio. Sugarcoat Beauty, an award-winning, Atlanta-favorite nail salon will open at Uptown in early 2025.

For the latest news and project updates, follow Uptown on Facebook and Instagram at @uptownatlanta, or visit https://uptownatlanta.com. 

LATIN AMERICAN ASSOCIATION HOLIDAY MIXER AT HALIDOM EATERY

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/14/24

Tuesday, November 19th

6-9pm

There is a $10 admission with complimentary cocktail! When you buy food or drink at the bar or at a stall in the food hall, you can choose a donation amount add to your check.

For over five decades, the LAA has been the cornerstone of services for Georgia’s Latino community, providing essential resources and advocacy. Year-round support and donations are crucial to maintaining and expanding its services. The LAA’s comprehensive, one-stop-shop service model is designed to help Latinos achieve the American dream by offering a range of programs focused on family stability, workforce development, and entrepreneurship. Info here.

The LAA serves over 30,000 individuals annually and remains the go-to resource for Latinos seeking to improve their lives in Georgia. As the top nonprofit for Latinos in the state, no other organization offers the same geographic reach, breadth of services, or expertise. From legal assistance and English classes to job placement and youth development, the LAA’s bilingual staff works tirelessly to ensure that Latino immigrants have the tools, knowledge, and support to succeed.

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FESTIVE FUN AWAITS AT ATLANTIC STATION THIS NOVEMBER

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/8/24

The holiday season is just around the corner and Atlantic Station is celebrating with an incredible lineup of festive events for all to enjoy! Warm things up with a morning of health and community at the Red Hot Holiday Workout and then glide into winter fun at Skate the Station, Atlanta’s largest outdoor ice-skating rink. The annual Light the Station event will dazzle with the lighting of a 50-foot Christmas tree, kicking off a month of holiday magic with Celebration at the Station. Plus, shop locally at the Creator’s Market every weekend to find unique, handmade gifts just in time for the holidays.
 
Atlantic Station is the place to be for festive fun this November, so make an afternoon, an evening, or a day of it by adding on a quick bite or indulgent meal this holiday season! Explore a variety of culinary offerings, from cozy cafes and casual spots to refined dining experiences. Whether you’re craving fresh sushi, juicy burgers, or classic Italian dishes, Atlantic Station’s diverse restaurants promise something for everyone. And if you want to skip cooking this year for Thanksgiving, let HOBNOB handle the details so you can focus on creating memories with their Thanksgiving family meal. Orders can be placed until Nov. 26 at 2 p.m. by visiting hobnobatlanta.com.
 
The Atlantic Station November Calendar of Events includes:
 
Saturday, Nov. 9: RED HOT HOLIDAY WORKOUT CLASS
Located on Atlantic Green | 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. 
In celebration of the new movie “Red One,” join Atlantic Station for a Red Hot Holiday Workout. This free class, hosted by fitness coach Jamie Hayes with music provided by Hot 107.9, will energize you for whatever festive fun the holidays send your way. Click here to reserve your spot.
 
Friday, Nov. 15 through Monday, January 20: SKATE THE STATION
Located at District Avenue | Times Vary
Skate under the stars at Atlanta’s largest outdoor ice-skating rink with the return of Skate the Station. Featuring an exciting lineup of theme nights, including London Night, Atlanta Falcons Night and many more, Skate the Station promises a joyful time for all. General Admission tickets ($17) and Season Passes ($90) must be purchased online in advance. Visit here to learn more.
 
Saturday, Nov. 23: LIGHT THE STATION
Located on Atlantic Green | 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Gather in the Heart of Atlanta to watch our 50-foot Christmas tree come to life for the first time this holiday season. This free event will bring lots of holiday fun, including a DJ and a parade with exciting performances and merry characters leading up to the festive tree-lighting! Visit here to learn more.
 
Saturday, Nov. 23 through Wednesday, Dec. 25: CELEBRATION AT THE STATION
Located around Atlantic Green | 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
During Light the Station, join us as Celebration at the Station kicks off. Enjoy an interactive experience with a festive video featuring holiday lights set to the music of some of our holiday favorites, while flurries of snow swirl around you. During the holiday season, check out this fantastic display at the top of every hour from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
 
Friday, Nov. 29: BLACK FRIDAY
Located around Atlantic Green | 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Enjoy all your favorite shops and dining, along with special treats and activities for the family throughout the day! From cookie decorating to carolers, the fun is endless! Black Friday at Atlantic Station features exclusive holiday shopping deals at your favorite retailers and restaurants, paired with a “Letters to Santa” station, cookie decorating, and a live reindeer photo-op! Also, enjoy a special gift redeemable at the Concierge when you spend $75 or more.
 
Every Weekend: FALL CREATOR’S MARKET
Located around Atlantic Green | Every Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. | Every Sunday noon to 7 p.m.
Atlantic Station’s Creator’s Market returns this month, kicking off Saturday, Nov. 2 and recurring every Saturday (11 a.m. to 9 p.m.)  and Sunday (noon to 7 p.m.) in November. Shop local and celebrate Atlanta’s unstoppable creativity. Find festive art, jewelry, couture, and more, all while supporting the creators of the South.

TURN UP THE HEAT THIS NOVEMBER WITH THE ATLANTA CHILI COOK OFF

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/6/24

(COOK & COMPETE OR JUST COME TO EAT!)

Saturday, 11/16 12pm

What: Atlanta Chili Cook Off
Where: Brook Run Park – 4770 N Peachtree Rd, Dunwoody, GA 30338
When: Saturday, November 16th, 2024 (12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.)
Website: www.AtlantaChiliCookOff.com
Tickets: www.bigtickets.com/e/amg/atlanta-chili-cook-off-2024/?referral=pr2
Contact: atlantachili@gmail.com

Get ready to spice up your life at the Atlanta Chili Cook Off in Dunwoody, Georgia this November!  Indulge in a variety of chili recipes and cast your vote for the best one. Music, cold drinks, and good vibes guaranteed! Don’t miss out on this sizzling event!

The Atlanta Chili Cook Off is back to spice up your Fall on Saturday, November 16th, 2024, at Brook Run Park in Dunwoody, Georgia. This much-anticipated event promises an afternoon full of delicious food, lively competition, and family-friendly fun.

This year’s Chili Cook Off offers something for everyone, whether you’re donning your chef’s hat to compete for the title of best chili or just eager to sample different chili recipes crafted by amateur chefs, restaurants, and caterers. Attendees can cast their votes for their favorite chili, adding to the excitement as competitors vie for coveted trophies.

Whether you’re a die-hard chili enthusiast or simply looking for a fun outdoor activity this Fall, the Atlanta Chili Cook Off is the event you won’t want to miss.

Register Your Team Today: Registration ends on October 15th, 2024. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this spicy competition! General Admission & VIP tickets are available and kids (12 & under) are FREE. For ticket options and more event details, please visit: www.AtlantaChiliCookOff.com

BOWED TIED BASH 2024

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/6/24

Date Night Dance Party 

November 22nd, 2024 | The Vinyl Room, Center Stage Atlanta 

On November 22nd, join us at The Vinyl Room inside Center Stage for the Bow Tied Bash, the ultimate date night dance party for couples! Presented by Completely Celebrated, this event is designed for couples looking for a fun-filled, memorable night without the late-night drag. The best part: the proceeds of all ticket sales will be donated to Atlanta Community Food Bank. 

Couples can dress up, enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant, and arrive early to enjoy cocktails starting at 7 PM. Then, from 8 PM to 11 PM, The Bow Tied DJ will take over with a three-hour set filled with throwback hits, singalong favorites, and feel-good anthems—guaranteed to get everyone on the dance floor. 

Like the best wedding receptions, this night will be filled with dancing and unforgettable moments. Couples are encouraged to invite their friends and get ready to make new memories at Bow Tied Bash! Tickets start at $20 for General Admission and $35 for VIP, which includes one hour early entry and a complimentary beverage at the bar. 

For more details and to purchase tickets, visit BowTiedBash.com. 

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