36 S G M A G A Z I N E | S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 9 B U S I N E S S + C U LT U R E 37 SOUTH GA STRONG is simply the fact that you get to know and speak with peers from different areas that may be dealing with similar issues. It gives the ability to put a face to a name and then begin a conversation. Those conversations could be beneficial for all of us.” From a geographical perspective, SGNN places importance on addressing challenges impacting rural communities. “Across South Georgia, there are serious and complicated issues related to poverty, hunger, low literacy, substance abuse, domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, and numerous health inequities,” says Zoe Myers, executive director of the Cook County Family Connection and SGNN board member. “These issues are even more challenging in rural areas where there are fewer resources, transportation barriers, and lack of essential services.” Because rural communities often have limited resources, Myers says, strong nonprofit organizations and collaborative partnerships are critical to bridging the gaps in social, health, and educational services. “For example, our nonprofit collaborative in Cook County has over 40 partners from schools and colleges, churches, civic clubs, healthcare agencies, law enforcement, local and state government, social service agencies, and others who work collectively to bridge local gaps in services,” she says. “Proving the theory that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts, collaborative processes and partnerships are crucial to the work on nonprofits in rural areas.” southganonprofit.org An Equal Opportunity Institution A Unit of the Technical College System of Georgia 229-333-2100 wiregrass.edu Whether you have a green thumb or enjoy cooking …. It’s time to learn more about Wiregrass. SGNN Conference Marketing for Today’s Nonprofit Leaders Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2019 Valdosta State University For more information, email Steve McWilliams at steve@ longleafpa.com. Community arts centers provide music lessons, painting and photography classes, computer skills training, and more to improve the quality of life for children and adults. Steve Jaramillo, associate director LARC and SGNN treasurer Zoe Myers, executive director of the Cook County Family Connection and SGNN board member TURNER CENTER FOR HTE ARTS