This Georgia community serves one another, feeds the hungry and raises the bar for peacemakers everywhere
An easy drive from the ATL, Americus and Sumter County, Georgia is well-known for historical architecture, ties to past-President Jimmy Carter, college campuses and Southern charm. What many folks may not know about the agritourism-driven county is that humanitarian efforts flow freely through businesses and out into the community. From Habitat to Humanity to Koinonia Farm to Café Campesino to Mobile Glassblowing Studios, this Georgia gem is packed with helping hands all around.
Koinonia Farm
In 1942, Koinonia Farm was founded by two families–the Jordans and the Englands–as a “demonstration plot for the Kingdom of God.” An intentional community of believers, Koinonians shared faith, resources and the workload. Equality, regardless of race or economic means, has been practiced since the beginning at Koinonia Farm and has brought its share of difficulties as many groups and organizations tried to force them out. When the dust settled, Koinonians focused on building decent and affordable housing for their neighbors, a project that would evolve into current-day Habitat for Humanity International. Also important was (and still is) feeding the hungry–spiritually and physically.
Today, Koinonians continue to set the standard for excellent practices in sustainable farming through the use of non-toxic ingredients that contribute to healthy soil and, in turn, healthy food. This group of peacemakers openly loves through service and hospitality, so it makes perfect sense that other amazing causes such as the Fuller Center for Housing and Jubilee Partners were born from this Georgia historical site, in addition to well-known Habitat for Humanity.
There are many ways to learn more about life at Koinonia Farm. Self-guided visits or guided tours are available along with on-site, affordable lodging. Enthusiasts can attend a retreat, check out the working farm, hit the walking trails, visit the museum, have lunch and take home treasures from the store. www.KoinoniaFarm.org
Habitat for Humanity and the Global Village & Discovery Center
Most people are familiar with Habitat for Humanity International, but a visit to the Global Village & Discovery Center brings the partnership to life through a fascinating six-acre village full of life-size Habitat houses from all around the world. Enriching families and cultures to create stability and self-reliance, the Habitat program is appealing to people and volunteer groups spanning the globe.
The need for affordable housing is a real and ever-present need, not only in America, but in countries near and far. From building houses and shelters for the needy to responding to disasters and revitalizing neighborhoods, Habitat for Humanity is one the world’s largest reaching efforts to help sustain families, and it all began in beautiful Sumter County, Georgia. Entry is free, but donations are appreciated. Call ahead to schedule a group tour. www.Habitat.org/about/global-village-discovery-center
Café Campesino
Once upon a time during a Habitat for Humanity trip to Guatemala, an idea would grow from a wheelbarrow of dirt dumped onto a farmer’s coffee bush. That single incident would go on to become Cooperative Coffees and present-day Café Campesino. Why? The fate of a farmer’s coffee plant was paramount to earning a living for his family–the quality, the amount produced and the longevity of the plant were all important factors.
Bill Harris, co-founder of Café Campesino, poured over the coffee phenom of the area learning all he could while realizing the efforts of the exploited farmers and the ridiculous amounts of money they were paid per pound of green coffee. His notion of developing a forum to connect coffee roasters (and other end users) to actual producers, led to the success of the first Fair Trade Coffee Transaction. Today, Café Campesino supplies coffee to individuals, coffee houses, markets, restaurants and even fundraisers! The artisan-roasted, specialty-grade coffee is sold both wholesale and retail from the headquarters and operations in Americus.
Folks from all over love visiting Georgia’s first and only 100% fair trade, organic coffee company founded in 1998. And, of course, plan on taking some home for future morning cups of java. It is available for purchase online as well. www.CafeCampesino.com
Mobile Glassblowing Studio
Glassblowing is quite the art with beautiful treasures as the outcome of some precision work and much patience. But who knew that the west-central Georgia town of Americus was an innovative leader for glassblowing dating back to 1979. It was, in fact, a Georgia Southwestern State University professor that introduced the program, encouraging generations of youngsters to learn this trade. Downtown shops sell the work of these local artisans and many have work on display at local galleries.
Mobile Glassblowing Studios is a unique business located in Americus, creating portable furnaces for those with a glassblowing hobby or career. Offering classes to the public (Hot Glass Academy), the local business also houses a gallery of fantastic pieces. Breaking the glass ceiling, pun intended, portable furnaces make the trade more accessible and affordable. Mobile Glassblowing Studios equips women in other countries with the portable furnaces, enabling them to become financially independent. www.MobileGlassBlowingStudios.com
If you go
More information about Americus and Sumter County’s humanitarian efforts, as well as trip planning advice, such as where to eat and where to stay, can be found at VisitAmericusGA.com.