Chair
Mark Rahiya
Group President, Omnichannel Sales and Services, Acosta Group
IntroductionMoving with Purpose, Acting with Impact
In 2025, the East Lake Foundation celebrated our 30-year anniversary. That is three decades of dedication, innovation and unwavering belief in the power of community.
Working in collaboration with the residents of The Villages of East Lake and students and families of Charles R. Drew Charter School, we use a holistic approach including cradle-to-college and career education, mixed-income housing, community wellness and economic vitality to ensure that every East Lake resident has access to the resources, tools and supports they need to thrive.
We are proud to illuminate the legacy of work already accomplished in East Lake and look forward to continuing to move purposefully to address the challenges of today, make a positive impact, and create solutions for tomorrow. We are excited to embark on this next chapter with you.
Ilham Askia
President & CEO
In 2025, the East Lake Foundation celebrated our 30-year anniversary. That is three decades of dedication, innovation and unwavering belief in the power of community.
Working in collaboration with the residents of The Villages of East Lake and students and families of Charles R. Drew Charter School, we use a holistic approach including cradle-to-college and career education, mixed-income housing, community wellness and economic vitality to ensure that every East Lake resident has access to the resources, tools and supports they need to thrive.
We are proud to illuminate the legacy of work already accomplished in East Lake and look forward to continuing to move purposefully to address the challenges of today, make a positive impact, and create solutions for tomorrow. We are excited to embark on this next chapter with you.
Ilham Askia
President & CEO
A Model for Progress
Accelerating Change
The East Lake Foundation collaborates with The Villages of East Lake residents, Charles R. Drew Charter School families, and other key service providers to ensure every member of our community has access to the resources, tools and supports needed to thrive.
30 Voices. 30 Years. One East Lake.Amplifying the Voices of Transformation
To celebrate three decades of transformation, the East Lake Foundation completed the 30 Voices project sharing the stories of a cross section of people who represent a larger community of those who have shaped, strengthened and sustained East Lake.
We interviewed dozens of legacy residents, dedicated partners and changemakers whose voices reveal what is possible when we grow together. Video recordings of their testimony, now live on our website, create a snapshot of the powerful community that makes East Lake a model for community transformation nationwide.
To celebrate three decades of transformation, the East Lake Foundation completed the 30 Voices project sharing the stories of a cross section of people who represent a larger community of those who have shaped, strengthened and sustained East Lake.
We interviewed dozens of legacy residents, dedicated partners and changemakers whose voices reveal what is possible when we grow together. Video recordings of their testimony, now live on our website, create a snapshot of the powerful community that makes East Lake a model for community transformation nationwide.
A Life Dedicated to CommunityHonoring Tom Cousins
In 2025, our beloved founder, Tom Cousins, passed away at the age of 93.
Mr. Cousins was a visionary leader who dedicated his life to transforming communities and creating opportunities for children and their families to prosper. His unwavering commitment to our mission and his deep belief in the potential of others served as an example to everyone that transformative change can only happen if you lead with integrity, professionalism and compassion.
Alongside Eva Davis and Renee Lewis Glover, Mr. Cousins cultivated a resident-centered approach that remains the cornerstone of our work today.
We are profoundly grateful for Mr. Cousins’ leadership, generosity and friendship and will honor his memory by continuing to work tirelessly to fulfill his dream of a world where every person has the resources and opportunities needed to thrive.
In 2025, our beloved founder, Tom Cousins, passed away at the age of 93.
Mr. Cousins was a visionary leader who dedicated his life to transforming communities and creating opportunities for children and their families to prosper. His unwavering commitment to our mission and his deep belief in the potential of others served as an example to everyone that transformative change can only happen if you lead with integrity, professionalism and compassion.
Alongside Eva Davis and Renee Lewis Glover, Mr. Cousins cultivated a resident-centered approach that remains the cornerstone of our work today.
We are profoundly grateful for Mr. Cousins’ leadership, generosity and friendship and will honor his memory by continuing to work tirelessly to fulfill his dream of a world where every person has the resources and opportunities needed to thrive.
Student HighlightMyron Leonard
Myron Leonard, a senior at Charles R. Drew Charter School, has been part of the East Lake community since 1st grade, when he and his family moved into The Villages of East Lake.
An avid lover of music, Myron fell in love with the harp through participation in the Urban Youth Harp Ensemble at Drew starting in 6th grade. The next year, he successfully auditioned for the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Talent Development Program and started studying under the principal harpist at the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.
Myron is a member of the Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra, Urban Youth Harp Ensemble, and the National Youth Orchestra of the United States of America. He is the winner of multiple musical performance and composition awards and even brought Kelly Clarkson to tears with a performance on her nationally aired talk show.
While his family has since moved out of The Villages of East Lake and into a home of their own in East Atlanta, they remain closely connected to their East Lake community. Myron volunteers regularly at events for the East Lake Foundation, including staffing our annual 5K and performing at our Party on the Green fundraiser. When he is not volunteering with the Foundation, he is teaching other students the harp, volunteering at the YMCA, and playing music for “paint what you hear” community events at the Fulton County Library.
When asked what advice he would give the next generation of young people in East Lake, Myron said: “If there is something that you truly love to do, go after it with all of your heart, and you will have no regrets.”
We are proud beyond measure to count Myron as part of our community and cannot wait to see where his determination, compassion and incredible musical talent take him.
Myron Leonard, a senior at Charles R. Drew Charter School, has been part of the East Lake community since 1st grade, when he and his family moved into The Villages of East Lake.
An avid lover of music, Myron fell in love with the harp through participation in the Urban Youth Harp Ensemble at Drew starting in 6th grade. The next year, he successfully auditioned for the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Talent Development Program and started studying under the principal harpist at the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.
Myron is a member of the Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra, Urban Youth Harp Ensemble, and the National Youth Orchestra of the United States of America. He is the winner of multiple musical performance and composition awards and even brought Kelly Clarkson to tears with a performance on her nationally aired talk show.
While his family has since moved out of The Villages of East Lake and into a home of their own in East Atlanta, they remain closely connected to their East Lake community. Myron volunteers regularly at events for the East Lake Foundation, including staffing our annual 5K and performing at our Party on the Green fundraiser. When he is not volunteering with the Foundation, he is teaching other students the harp, volunteering at the YMCA, and playing music for “paint what you hear” community events at the Fulton County Library.
When asked what advice he would give the next generation of young people in East Lake, Myron said: “If there is something that you truly love to do, go after it with all of your heart, and you will have no regrets.”
We are proud beyond measure to count Myron as part of our community and cannot wait to see where his determination, compassion and incredible musical talent take him.
Start:ME East LakeLenny Ross
Lenny Ross, his wife, and their two daughters have lived in East Lake since 2010.
When he attended his first Atlanta United game, Lenny felt the dedicated fanbase lacked merchandise that reflected Atlanta’s unique character. A savvy marketer, in 2019 he launched 5 Stripes Merch, a company offering shirts and fan merchandise combining a love for the team with nods to Atlanta’s culture.
In 2025, Lenny enrolled in the Start:ME East Lake program, where he received structured support and mentorship to help take his business, which started as a passion project, to the next level. “Being in the program changed my whole business trajectory,” he shared. “Now I want to be able to inspire other entrepreneurs and push them to do whatever they want to do.”
Lenny expanded his business with new products and services with a focus on supporting local businesses, including other graduates from his Start:ME cohort. He even created custom starter jackets for the East Lake Foundation’s staff in celebration of our 30th anniversary.
Next, Lenny has his sights set on selling his merchandise at the Atlanta airport. With his drive, we have no doubt he will succeed—and continue to inspire and uplift other entrepreneurs along the way.
Lenny Ross, his wife, and their two daughters have lived in East Lake since 2010.
When he attended his first Atlanta United game, Lenny felt the dedicated fanbase lacked merchandise that reflected Atlanta’s unique character. A savvy marketer, in 2019 he launched 5 Stripes Merch, a company offering shirts and fan merchandise combining a love for the team with nods to Atlanta’s culture.
In 2025, Lenny enrolled in the Start:ME East Lake program, where he received structured support and mentorship to help take his business, which started as a passion project, to the next level. “Being in the program changed my whole business trajectory,” he shared. “Now I want to be able to inspire other entrepreneurs and push them to do whatever they want to do.”
Lenny expanded his business with new products and services with a focus on supporting local businesses, including other graduates from his Start:ME cohort. He even created custom starter jackets for the East Lake Foundation’s staff in celebration of our 30th anniversary.
Next, Lenny has his sights set on selling his merchandise at the Atlanta airport. With his drive, we have no doubt he will succeed—and continue to inspire and uplift other entrepreneurs along the way.
Donor & Volunteer HighlightRSM
For years, RSM has been a steadfast supporter of the East Lake Foundation and children and families in our community.
RSM’s Atlanta office supports the Foundation through the Power of Love, an annual campaign integrating volunteerism and fundraising. Whether it is setting up an egg hunt for children living in The Villages of East Lake or passing out ice cream and celebrating students’ first day of school during our Back-to-School Bash, their volunteers are always at the center of the action. They not only volunteer hands-on in the community, but they also provide philanthropic support for educational programs and services at Charles R. Drew Charter School through their charitable foundation.
Joyce Reto, Atlanta Office Managing Partner, serves on the East Lake Foundation Board of Directors, ensuring that we are well-equipped to carry out our mission.
“I believe deeply in the work that the East Lake community has done to create opportunities through community engagement, housing, and a strong education,” Joyce shared. “East Lake shows what can happen when a community comes together with purpose, and I’m honored to support that work.”
We are grateful for the depth of RSM’s commitment and all that they do to bring smiles to the families of East Lake.
For years, RSM has been a steadfast supporter of the East Lake Foundation and children and families in our community.
RSM’s Atlanta office supports the Foundation through the Power of Love, an annual campaign integrating volunteerism and fundraising. Whether it is setting up an egg hunt for children living in The Villages of East Lake or passing out ice cream and celebrating students’ first day of school during our Back-to-School Bash, their volunteers are always at the center of the action. They not only volunteer hands-on in the community, but they also provide philanthropic support for educational programs and services at Charles R. Drew Charter School through their charitable foundation.
Joyce Reto, Atlanta Office Managing Partner, serves on the East Lake Foundation Board of Directors, ensuring that we are well-equipped to carry out our mission.
“I believe deeply in the work that the East Lake community has done to create opportunities through community engagement, housing, and a strong education,” Joyce shared. “East Lake shows what can happen when a community comes together with purpose, and I’m honored to support that work.”
We are grateful for the depth of RSM’s commitment and all that they do to bring smiles to the families of East Lake.
Drew Charter SchoolPreparing Students for Lifelong Success
Charles R. Drew Charter School, which celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2026, serves nearly 1,900 students in Pre-K through 12th grade with an innovative Project-Based Learning approach centered around a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) curriculum.
Drew Senior, Junior, and Elementary Academies each rank in the Top 10 in all of Atlanta Public Schools (APS). Drew consistently ranks in the top 10% in APS and top 20% in the State of Georgia and has a 14% higher college completion rate for graduates than any other school in the district.
Drew continues to focus on Social-Emotional/Counseling support for students, including implementing a mental health and wellness screener for Pre-K-12, providing students with individual counseling sessions, and following and supporting students with individualized year-to-year graduation plans.
Recent enhancements at Drew focus on persistence support and resources to ensure alumni success after graduation, as well as increased staffing to ensure each student receives individualized plans for success.
Charles R. Drew Charter School, which celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2026, serves nearly 1,900 students in Pre-K through 12th grade with an innovative Project-Based Learning approach centered around a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) curriculum.
Drew Senior, Junior, and Elementary Academies each rank in the Top 10 in all of Atlanta Public Schools (APS). Drew consistently ranks in the top 10% in APS and top 20% in the State of Georgia and has a 14% higher college completion rate for graduates than any other school in the district.
Drew continues to focus on Social-Emotional/Counseling support for students, including implementing a mental health and wellness screener for Pre-K-12, providing students with individual counseling sessions, and following and supporting students with individualized year-to-year graduation plans.
Recent enhancements at Drew focus on persistence support and resources to ensure alumni success after graduation, as well as increased staffing to ensure each student receives individualized plans for success.
Drew Charter School, continued
Highlights
- 98% Class of 2025 Graduation Rate.
- 58% were “Drew babies” who began their journey at Drew in Pre-K or Kindergarten, a testament to East Lake’s cradle-to-college and career approach.
- $11 million+ in scholarships earned.
- 100% of applicants were accepted into one or more colleges and universities.
- Acceptances to over 148 colleges and universities.
- 75% of students participated in early college programming.
- 64 students were served in the Learning Lab, which provides study skills classes and academic support for students to ensure they graduate on time.
- East Lake Foundation awarded nearly $250,000 via 34 scholarships to Drew graduating seniors and alumni, including 6 Tom and Ann Cousins Scholarships, 4 Eva Davis Empowerment Scholarships, 10 HBCU Legacy Scholarships, 2 Rob Johnston Community Service Scholarships, 2 Jackson Family HBCU Book Scholarships, 2 Danny Shoy Excellence in Leadership Scholarships, 1 Rc Pruitt Scholarship, 2 Fischer Family Scholarships, 1 Dottie Kuhlman Scholarship, 1 “Women Who Will” Scholarship with support from Laura Bollman, and 3 inaugural “Leap of Faith” Scholarships in memory of Solomon Simmon.
Early LearningBuilding Foundations with Purpose
Recognizing the importance of building a strong foundation for learning early in a child’s life, the East Lake Foundation and Drew Charter School work closely with our early learning partners (Cox Pre-K, East Lake Early Learning Academy, and Sheltering Arms East Lake) to ensure a seamless transition as students matriculate through our cradle-to-college and career education continuum.
Highlights
- The first two graduates of the Cox Pre-K Teachers Fellowship for early childhood educators, both Drew alumnae, earned their Child Development Associate Credential, acquired early childhood education job placements, and enrolled in Georgia State University’s School of Education to pursue careers in education.
- 295 students enrolled at Cox Pre-K, East Lake Early Learning Academy, and Sheltering Arms East Lake.
- 96 students attending East Lake Early Learning Academy or Sheltering Arms East Lake are scholarship recipients.
Recognizing the importance of building a strong foundation for learning early in a child’s life, the East Lake Foundation and Drew Charter School work closely with our early learning partners (Cox Pre-K, East Lake Early Learning Academy, and Sheltering Arms East Lake) to ensure a seamless transition as students matriculate through our cradle-to-college and career education continuum.
Highlights
- The first two graduates of the Cox Pre-K Teachers Fellowship for early childhood educators, both Drew alumnae, earned their Child Development Associate Credential, acquired early childhood education job placements, and enrolled in Georgia State University’s School of Education to pursue careers in education.
- 295 students enrolled at Cox Pre-K, East Lake Early Learning Academy, and Sheltering Arms East Lake.
- 96 students attending East Lake Early Learning Academy or Sheltering Arms East Lake are scholarship recipients.
Academic RecoveryAccelerating Student Success
Drew Charter School provides academic recovery programming and support to students through a Summer Acceleration Academy, Saturday School, and targeted tutoring to mitigate the ongoing effects of the pandemic on students’ learning and social-emotional development.
Highlights
The Summer Acceleration Academy provided support for 167 rising 1st – 9th grade students in need of intensive academic support. This year, Drew augmented the program by adding an additional week. As a result:
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- 98% of 2nd graders made at least 10 points of growth from their pre- to post-test in both Reading and Math.
- 99% of 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders made at least 10 points of growth from their pre- to post-test in both Reading and Math.
The Eagles Connect tutoring program addresses learning loss and academic challenges by pairing students with trained tutors in small group settings for one hour a day, two days per week. During the 2024-2025 school year:
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- 29 teachers worked with 164 students across all three academies in grades K-12.
- The average student-to-teacher ratio was no more than 5:1 and sometimes as low as 3:1, allowing students to receive critical small group instruction to bridge their gaps.
Drew Charter School provides academic recovery programming and support to students through a Summer Acceleration Academy, Saturday School, and targeted tutoring to mitigate the ongoing effects of the pandemic on students’ learning and social-emotional development.
Highlights
The Summer Acceleration Academy provided support for 167 rising 1st – 9th grade students in need of intensive academic support. This year, Drew augmented the program by adding an additional week. As a result:
-
- 98% of 2nd graders made at least 10 points of growth from their pre- to post-test in both Reading and Math.
- 99% of 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders made at least 10 points of growth from their pre- to post-test in both Reading and Math.
The Eagles Connect tutoring program addresses learning loss and academic challenges by pairing students with trained tutors in small group settings for one hour a day, two days per week. During the 2024-2025 school year:
-
- 29 teachers worked with 164 students across all three academies in grades K-12.
- The average student-to-teacher ratio was no more than 5:1 and sometimes as low as 3:1, allowing students to receive critical small group instruction to bridge their gaps.
The Trust at East LakeMoving With Purpose Toward Homeownership
In partnership with The Atlanta Land Trust (ALT), the East Lake Foundation began the second phase of construction of The Trust at East Lake, 40 new, permanently affordable townhomes in East Lake. After completing the first phase with eight townhomes in 2024, the next phase includes eight duplexes and four townhomes.
Working closely with the Foundation’s Resident and Community Support Program at The Villages of East Lake, we collaborate to ensure current East Lake residents are equipped to become homeowners through this partnership.
We are pleased to share that a resident of The Villages of East Lake has become a first-time homeowner at The Trust at East Lake. Completion of all 40 homes is anticipated in 2027.
In partnership with The Atlanta Land Trust (ALT), the East Lake Foundation began the second phase of construction of The Trust at East Lake, 40 new, permanently affordable townhomes in East Lake. After completing the first phase with eight townhomes in 2024, the next phase includes eight duplexes and four townhomes.
Working closely with the Foundation’s Resident and Community Support Program at The Villages of East Lake, we collaborate to ensure current East Lake residents are equipped to become homeowners through this partnership.
We are pleased to share that a resident of The Villages of East Lake has become a first-time homeowner at The Trust at East Lake. Completion of all 40 homes is anticipated in 2027.
Resident and Community Support ProgramPurposeful Support, Lasting Impact
The Resident and Community Support Program (RCSP) offers comprehensive resources and support to residents of The Villages of East Lake mixed-income housing community, with an emphasis on economic stability, career development and community engagement.
RCSP teams with several community partners to enhance employment readiness through financial education workshops, including financial education, entrepreneurship, homeowner education and career coaching. Residents also receive access to job resources, financial tools, small business startup assistance, and much more.
Highlights
- 1,541 residents participated in RCSP programming, 80% of whom identify as low-to moderate income.
- Assisted 45 families at The Villages of East Lake with $60,000 in rent and utility assistance.
- 60 economic stability, mental health, wellness, homeownership, and other community programs offered.
- 58 community members trained, upskilled and/or reskilled for job opportunities.
- 90% of individuals who attended financial classes and/or financial coaching opened and maintained a savings account.
- Hosted Legacy Luncheon for senior residents, annual egg hunt, back-to-school summer festival, Thanksgiving food distribution and holiday gift events.
The Resident and Community Support Program (RCSP) offers comprehensive resources and support to residents of The Villages of East Lake mixed-income housing community, with an emphasis on economic stability, career development and community engagement.
RCSP teams with several community partners to enhance employment readiness through financial education workshops, including financial education, entrepreneurship, homeowner education and career coaching. Residents also receive access to job resources, financial tools, small business startup assistance, and much more.
Highlights
- 1,541 residents participated in RCSP programming, 80% of whom identify as low-to moderate income.
- Assisted 45 families at The Villages of East Lake with $60,000 in rent and utility assistance.
- 60 economic stability, mental health, wellness, homeownership, and other community programs offered.
- 58 community members trained, upskilled and/or reskilled for job opportunities.
- 90% of individuals who attended financial classes and/or financial coaching opened and maintained a savings account.
- Hosted Legacy Luncheon for senior residents, annual egg hunt, back-to-school summer festival, Thanksgiving food distribution and holiday gift events.
Start:ME ProgramTurning Ideas Into Opportunity
Start:ME East Lake is a 14-session program in partnership with The Roberto C. Goizueta Business & Society Institute at Emory University that offers the assistance promising micro-entrepreneurs need to develop viable and sustainable microbusinesses.
Since its inception, Start:ME East Lake has graduated eleven cohorts with 177 total ventures.
Highlights
- 18 entrepreneurs completed the program.
- 23 jobs created by participating small businesses.
- 78% of businesses are incorporated.
- 100% led by people of color.
- 78% led by women.
- 56% led by individuals from low-to-moderate income households.
- Three participants are Villages of East Lake residents, five are Drew Charter School parents, three are Drew staff, and for the first time, a member of the East Lake Foundation team participated.
Start:ME East Lake is a 14-session program in partnership with The Roberto C. Goizueta Business & Society Institute at Emory University that offers the assistance promising micro-entrepreneurs need to develop viable and sustainable microbusinesses.
Since its inception, Start:ME East Lake has graduated eleven cohorts with 177 total ventures.
Highlights
- 18 entrepreneurs completed the program.
- 23 jobs created by participating small businesses.
- 78% of businesses are incorporated.
- 100% led by people of color.
- 78% led by women.
- 56% led by individuals from low-to-moderate income households.
- Three participants are Villages of East Lake residents, five are Drew Charter School parents, three are Drew staff, and for the first time, a member of the East Lake Foundation team participated.
Wealth Builds AtlantaExpanding Financial Opportunity for Youth
In 2024, the East Lake Foundation established a partnership with Harlem Children’s Zone to implement Wealth Builds Atlanta, a transformative initiative aimed at closing the wealth gap through programming structured around key pillars that span the cradle-to-college and career continuum. This initiative provides youth with asset boosts, financial knowledge, and the necessary tools to support intergenerational wealth creation.
Working closely with Charles R. Drew Charter School and financial literacy programming partner Operation HOPE, we are continuing expansion and implementation of the program to ensure that youth and families have access to the tools, knowledge and resources to support lasting financial well-being.
In 2025, the program seeded 634 Drew Charter School students’ College Savings Accounts with $500 each, increasing their likelihood of college enrollment and completion.
In 2024, the East Lake Foundation established a partnership with Harlem Children’s Zone to implement Wealth Builds Atlanta, a transformative initiative aimed at closing the wealth gap through programming structured around key pillars that span the cradle-to-college and career continuum. This initiative provides youth with asset boosts, financial knowledge, and the necessary tools to support intergenerational wealth creation.
Working closely with Charles R. Drew Charter School and financial literacy programming partner Operation HOPE, we are continuing expansion and implementation of the program to ensure that youth and families have access to the tools, knowledge and resources to support lasting financial well-being.
In 2025, the program seeded 634 Drew Charter School students’ College Savings Accounts with $500 each, increasing their likelihood of college enrollment and completion.
East Lake 5K & Fun RunMoving Together for East Lake
In August 2025, the East Lake Foundation hosted the fourth annual Run for East Lake 5K & Fun Run.
Presented by the East Lake Family YMCA, the event brought together 400 community members to run through East Lake destinations including The Villages of East Lake, East Lake Family YMCA, Charlie Yates Golf Course, and the back 9 holes of East Lake Golf Club.
In August 2025, the East Lake Foundation hosted the fourth annual Run for East Lake 5K & Fun Run.
Presented by the East Lake Family YMCA, the event brought together 400 community members to run through East Lake destinations including The Villages of East Lake, East Lake Family YMCA, Charlie Yates Golf Course, and the back 9 holes of East Lake Golf Club.
East Lake Healthy ConnectionsConnecting Residents to Better Health
East Lake Healthy Connections (ELHC), a program in partnership with the East Lake Family YMCA, ensures all eligible East Lake families have access to health insurance, effectively utilize primary and preventive health care services, properly manage chronic diseases, and establish contact with accessible medical homes.
Highlights
- 316 residents were re-enrolled and 271 residents were newly connected to health insurance.
- 587 individuals were connected with health/dental homes.
- 500 food boxes were provided to residents in need.
- 492 individuals participated in senior services, cancer awareness and screening sessions, chronic disease management, and other wellness programming.
- 13 seniors, on average, participated in the weekly Wellness Wednesday opportunities at the Villages of East Lake.
East Lake Healthy Connections (ELHC), a program in partnership with the East Lake Family YMCA, ensures all eligible East Lake families have access to health insurance, effectively utilize primary and preventive health care services, properly manage chronic diseases, and establish contact with accessible medical homes.
Highlights
- 316 residents were re-enrolled and 271 residents were newly connected to health insurance.
- 587 individuals were connected with health/dental homes.
- 500 food boxes were provided to residents in need.
- 492 individuals participated in senior services, cancer awareness and screening sessions, chronic disease management, and other wellness programming.
- 13 seniors, on average, participated in the weekly Wellness Wednesday opportunities at the Villages of East Lake.
First Tee — Metro AtlantaGrowing Confidence Through Golf
Every young person carries potential that needs the right environment to grow. At First Tee – Metro Atlanta, they use golf as the backdrop for something deeper: building the mental health protective factors that help young people thrive long before life’s hardest moments arrive. Their coaches create consistent, supportive relationships where youth develop resilience, self-regulation, and a sense of belonging; strengthening the community wellness fabric that allows young people and neighborhoods to transform together.
Serving over 1,000 young people annually as First Tee’s most diverse chapter nationwide, First Tee – Metro Atlanta believes that when young people are equipped with the right inner tools, they, along with the communities they call home, flourish.
First Tee – Metro Atlanta serves youth participants (ages 7-17) at several program locations across several program locations in Metro Atlanta, including the Charlie Yates Golf Course in East Lake. Golf instruction not only provides access to the sport, but also can lead to college scholarships, business connections, and employment.
Highlights
- 1,027 total participants served (188 participants served at Charlie Yates Golf Course).
- First Tee – Metro Atlanta awarded $10,000 in scholarships to 2 Drew Charter School graduates.
- 5 Drew Students took leadership roles as First Tee – Metro Atlanta Junior Coaches.
Every young person carries potential that needs the right environment to grow. At First Tee – Metro Atlanta, they use golf as the backdrop for something deeper: building the mental health protective factors that help young people thrive long before life’s hardest moments arrive. Their coaches create consistent, supportive relationships where youth develop resilience, self-regulation, and a sense of belonging; strengthening the community wellness fabric that allows young people and neighborhoods to transform together.
Serving over 1,000 young people annually as First Tee’s most diverse chapter nationwide, First Tee – Metro Atlanta believes that when young people are equipped with the right inner tools, they, along with the communities they call home, flourish.
First Tee – Metro Atlanta serves youth participants (ages 7-17) at several program locations across several program locations in Metro Atlanta, including the Charlie Yates Golf Course in East Lake. Golf instruction not only provides access to the sport, but also can lead to college scholarships, business connections, and employment.
Highlights
- 1,027 total participants served (188 participants served at Charlie Yates Golf Course).
- First Tee – Metro Atlanta awarded $10,000 in scholarships to 2 Drew Charter School graduates.
- 5 Drew Students took leadership roles as First Tee – Metro Atlanta Junior Coaches.
East Lake Junior Golf AcademyDeveloping Talent, Discipline and Opportunity
The newly re-imagined East Lake Junior Golf Academy equips young athletes with advanced training, mentorship and resources to excel on and off the golf course. A partnership between East Lake Golf Club, the East Lake Foundation, Drew Charter School and the Charlie Yates Golf Course, programming and strategic partnerships focus on the development of technical skills and competitive golf following the PGA of America’s American Development Model for Golf.
Highlights
- 500+ 3rd – 12th graders at Drew Charter School were provided with in-school and after-school golf programming, expanding programming into the Elementary Academy and increasing exposure to the sport of golf.
- Hired a new golf coach serving the 3rd – 5th graders in Elementary Academy.
- 38 students on Drew’s Boys’ and Girls’ golf teams were provided with intensive training, equipment, and scholarships to support tournament fees and travel, including a partnership with Golf House Academy providing weekly skills training.
- Developed a new curriculum for golf at Drew, making it the one of the first schools nationwide to implement the American Development Model for Golf.
- Drew Senior Academy Boys’ team made it to the Class AA State Championship.
- All-state golfer JaMya Duckworth qualified as an individual for state and finished 15th of 54 golfers despite a knee injury.
The newly re-imagined East Lake Junior Golf Academy equips young athletes with advanced training, mentorship and resources to excel on and off the golf course. A partnership between East Lake Golf Club, the East Lake Foundation, Drew Charter School and the Charlie Yates Golf Course, programming and strategic partnerships focus on the development of technical skills and competitive golf following the PGA of America’s American Development Model for Golf.
Highlights
- 500+ 3rd – 12th graders at Drew Charter School were provided with in-school and after-school golf programming, expanding programming into the Elementary Academy and increasing exposure to the sport of golf.
- Hired a new golf coach serving the 3rd – 5th graders in Elementary Academy.
- 38 students on Drew’s Boys’ and Girls’ golf teams were provided with intensive training, equipment, and scholarships to support tournament fees and travel, including a partnership with Golf House Academy providing weekly skills training.
- Developed a new curriculum for golf at Drew, making it the one of the first schools nationwide to implement the American Development Model for Golf.
- Drew Senior Academy Boys’ team made it to the Class AA State Championship.
- All-state golfer JaMya Duckworth qualified as an individual for state and finished 15th of 54 golfers despite a knee injury.
Golf ScholarshipsScholarships Opening Doors to Opportunity
During the 2024-2025 school year, the East Lake Foundation provided college scholarships to ten scholars through the Charles W. Harrison Scholarship Fund, which commemorates beloved late East Lake golf legend and mentor Charlie Harrison, who passed in 2025.
Established in 1998, the scholarship provides college scholarships for dependents of employees of East Lake Golf Club or Charlie Yates Golf Course, as well as members of Drew Charter School golf team who demonstrate exemplary character and academic performance.
During the 2024-2025 school year, the East Lake Foundation provided college scholarships to ten scholars through the Charles W. Harrison Scholarship Fund, which commemorates beloved late East Lake golf legend and mentor Charlie Harrison, who passed in 2025.
Established in 1998, the scholarship provides college scholarships for dependents of employees of East Lake Golf Club or Charlie Yates Golf Course, as well as members of Drew Charter School golf team who demonstrate exemplary character and academic performance.
Our Donors
Today’s Investment Becomes Tomorrow’s Impact
We are indebted to the donor support that makes our work possible.
Our donor list reflects giving from January 1–December 31, 2025. We made every effort to ensure accuracy with this list and apologize for any errors or omissions. If you have any corrections, please reach out to development@eastlakefoundation.org.
Visionary $25,000+
AT&T Georgia
Bank of America
Bank of America Charitable Foundation
Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation
CF Foundation
The Coca-Cola Company
The Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta
Connolly Family Foundation
Cousins Properties Foundation
Cox Enterprises
Cox Foundations
Delta Air Lines
Dozen Dimes Foundation
The Estate of Martin Dugan
Georgia Power Company
Georgia Power Foundation, Inc.
Georgia-Pacific, LLC
Jack & Anne Glenn Foundation
The Shearon & Taylor Glover Foundation
The Goizueta Foundation
Golf Channel
Harlem Children’s Zone
David Hart
The Imlay Foundation, Inc.
The Charles and Esther Lee Kimerling Charitable Foundation
Martin and Kim Neary
Norfolk Southern Corporation
Purpose Built Communities through a grant from Georgia Power Foundation
The Rich’s Foundation
Alexandria and Alex Robertson
Robertson Foundation
Ray Robinson Family Foundation in Honor of Tom Cousins
Alexia and Lin Rogers
Target
Truist Foundation
Waffle House, Inc.
Wells Fargo
Innovator $10,000 to $24,999
Acuity
Paula and Brant Andrews
Grant Cagle
Chick-fil-A, Inc.
Clark and Ruby Baker Foundation
Cognia
Delta Community Credit Union
Carol and Larry Gellerstedt
Raymond Giornelli
Lillian and Greg Giornelli
Mike and Gillian Goodrich
Graphic Packaging International
Robert and Richard Hays
HB Wealth
J. C. Kennedy Foundation, Inc.
Philip Jones
Kelin Foundation
Sarah and Jim Kennedy
Cynthia Kuhlman
Sartain Lanier Family Foundation
Luca Electric, Inc.
The Oughtness Group
Kathie and Chuck Palmer
Glenn Cohen and Lynne Pattillo
Peck Family Foundation
PGA TOUR, Inc.
Purpose Built Communities, LLC
Gerald and Tracey Render
David Roemer
RSM US Foundation
RSUI Indemnity Company
Jay and Laura Sadd
SouthState Bank
The Stephens Family
Meg and Marc Taylor
Truist
Turner Foundation, Inc.
David Wahrhaftig
Chris Womack
Leader $5,000 to $9,999
American Junior Golf Association
BankSouth
BlackRock Atlanta Office
Columbia Residential
Shan and Eddie Cooper
The Correll Family Foundation
DeKalb County Government
East Lake Family YMCA
Mark Eppert
John and Mary Franklin Foundation, Inc.
Nancy and Gino Gabianelli
Elizabeth and Thomas Holder
Mary Ellen Imlay
Eric Ingram
Jenny and Phil Jacobs
David and Jennifer Kahn Family
Greg Kelly
Liz and Mark Lazarus
Missy and Doug MacGinnitie
Lee and John McColl
Phillip and Kathy McCrorie
Northern Trust
Piedmont Healthcare
Sara Prince
PruittHealth
Mark and KK Rahiya
Jeremy and Grace Rainwater
Regions Bank
Shane Robinson
TOUR Championship
Troutman Pepper Locke
Carl Ware
Sally and Comer Yates
Ellen and Dan Zegura
Builder $2,500 to $4,999
Atlanta Foundation
Chloe Barzey
Leonte Benton
John and Rita Breen
Mark C. Callaway
Allison and Derek Dooley
Fiduciary Trust International
Z. Janine Franklin
Linda and Hank Harris
Pam and Rob Johnston
Matt Little
Drew Giblin and Kristen Loehr
Gay and Erskine Love Foundation, Inc.
McKelvey Family
Mandy and Sean Mahoney
Patrick Malloy Companies, LLC
Leonard Murray and Angela Burt-Murray
Patrick Family Foundation
Perennial Properties
Joyce and Bob Reto
Dorothy and Miles Snowden
T. Dallas Smith & Company, LLC.
Roderick Teachey
Lauren and Jonathan Tugman
Tull Charitable Foundation, Inc.
Edward H. Vick Foundation
Charlotte C. Weber and Virginia E. Moens
William Julius Wilson Institute
Collaborator $1,000 to $2,499
Anonymous
Lorrie Allegra
Marcy and Ron Allen
Ronald Alston
Nana-Yaw Asamoah
Atlanta City Council, District 5
Eric Z. Ayers and Almanzia Opeyo
Marla and Tom Bennett
Will and Mary Blalock
Isaac Blythers
Laura Bollman and Preston Cockey
Brav Castle Investments LP
Brav Ventures LP
Althea Broughton
Alison and Anton Bueschen
Kendall Burgess
Pam and Rick Burton
Scott Cahoon
Tiffany Callaway Ferrell
Rives Castleman
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
Mr. and Mrs. Cecil D. Conlee
Emma Corcoran
Whitney Deal Marshall
Ashley Derrick
Derin Dickerson
Mr. and Mrs. Curley Dossman, Jr.
James and Jessica Douglas
Scott and Margaret Dozier
East Lake Neighbors Community Association
East Lake Neighbors Development Corporation
Heather and David Edmiston
Ed Elkins
John and Cindy Ethridge
The Fischer Family
Fortified Fence Group
Mr. and Mrs. John Frazer
Rachel Gage
Lou and Tom Glenn
Lewis Glenn
Cameron Golden
James Green
Joe and Rebecca Greiner
The Hales Family Charitable Fund
Kwanza Hall
Julius Hamilton
Hands on Atlanta
Jenelle Hanes
Scott Hansen
Jane and Derek Hardesty
Joseph Harris
Scott Harrison and Serena Levy
Sherry Hart
Yolanda Hawkes
Shannon Heath-Longino
Elizabeth Hervey
Nicholas Harrell and Angela Hilliard
Hobe Sound Staff
Tony Hodge
Phil and Melinda Holladay
Laurie and Chad Hood
Joi Jackson
Tharon Johnson
Crews Johnston
Craig B. Jones
Sherri Jones
Lindsey and Josh Kamin
John P. Kempey
Charles B. and Lynne V. Knapp
Robert P. Lancaster, Jr.
Thomas H. Lanier Family Foundation
Pat and Bill Lummus
Christy and John Mack
Juanika Mainor Harper
John and Monika Majors
Colleen and Robert Manfred
Diane and Julia Jones and Latanya Mapp-Norton
Amy Marriott
Sandra Marshall
Jill Martin
Kevin McCabe
Laurin McClung
Jane S. McColl
Joel and Rosemary McElhannon
Alan and Barbara McKnight
Denene Millner
Hala and Steve Moddelmog
Dan and Patricia Mooza
Carol and Tim Naughton
Felicia and Kamau Nickerson
Norma and Doug Nyhoff
Ashani Collins O’Mard
Chad and Carrie Parker
Neel Patel
Jared Paul and Kelley Harris
Molly Rahiya
KK Rahiya
Valerie Robinson
Joyia Toran Rosser
Clay Rucker
Drs. Shenara and Alonzo Sexton
Daniel J. Shoy, Jr.
Kathleen C. Smith
Brandi Smith
Sovereign Realty & Management LLC
Stephanie and John Stapleton
Julie Kirchner and Colin Stewa
Dorothy Panton Stoller
Janie and Jim Stratigos
Yancey Stribling
Elysa and Stan Sugarman
Nancy S. Surbaugh
Tikkun Olam Fund
Thomas Thomasma
John Torbett, Jr.
Kathy N. Waller
Warren Averett
Rebecca and Dennis Webb
Cary and Herron Weems
Robin Rivers and Earl West
Lisa West
Carolyn and Cody White
Christopher Witcher
Catherine Woodling and Evan Strange
Ruth W. Woodling
Woodruff Arts Center
Mary Wren
Mr. and Mrs. Danny Yates, III
Partner $250 to $999
Cory Abrams
Madelyn R. Adams
Felicia Allen
Ivan and Blain Allen
Jeffrey Armstrong
Rosemarie Ashton
Marc Balizer
Charlie Battle
Jeff Baxter
Bob and Lynda Beebe
Rick Bent and Renee Kastanakis
Riley Blount
Wigasi Brant
Alison and Cameron Burns
Katherine and Kyle Caldwell
Roger Canchola
Vada Carter
Andrew and Kimberly Case
Kivatah Castilla
Aaron and Sophia Chethalan
Bert Clark
Jon Cooper
Connie Cousins-Baker
Bob and Sally Cramer
Karen Cramer
Zach Cravens State Farm
Eric Cray
Shawn Cummins and Kristie Durand
Audra Cunningham
Taylor Custis
Beth and Michael Davis
Nancy and Don Doran
David Dorton
Lindsey Doscher
Chelsea Dowty
Mrs. Jim D. Edwards
Mr. and Mrs. Paul Farrell
William H. Ferguson
Jai Ferrell
Jeffrey Eliason and Angela Fusaro
Lou and Patty Gerland
Deirdra Glover
Renee Lewis Glover
Karima and Lesley Grady
Gary and Libby Gray
Shauna and Andy Greene
John B. Haberlen
Marilyn Hack
Dr. Michael Hagearty
Felicia M. Hairston
Aubrey Hannon
Valerie Harrell
Susan Harrod
John Hartman
Valerie Hartman
Caleb Heath
Hecht Foundation
Max and Amy Heineman
Ryan Hellams and Molly Silva
Mike Hill
C. Rankin Hobbs
Amy and Bill Hollett
Dr. and Mrs. Linton Hopkins
Zenith Houston
Frances Huber
Beverly and Charlie Hurt
Wayne Hyatt
Hyundai Capital America’s Community Pride Fund
Erin and Austin Igleheart
Robert Jackson
Sharon and Richard Jenkins
Arthur and T’leatha Johnson
Gina Johnston
Brad Kates
George Keller
Graham C. Kennedy, Jr.
Kirkwood Pediatrics
Virginia Lane
Monica Leonard
Liliana for Atlanta, LLC
Wm. Loder
Cheryl Lomax
Constance Mack-Threatt
Barbara F. Martin
Michelle Matthews
Jennifer McCrary
David and Sarah McKenney
McKenney’s, Inc.
Ashley and Parker Miller
Christine Mills
Brittany and John Molinaro
Tracy Monk
Talia Monroe
The Albert and Nan Gray Monk Foundation
S. Gordon Moore, Jr.
Pete Moraitakis
James V. Napier
Carol Newell
Norma V. Nyhoff
Kevin O’Keefe
Oakhurst Market/Universal Joint
Emily and Eric O’Brien
Reginald and Monishae O’Neill
Orange County Community Foundation
Tywonia Orum
Carlos and Maria Pagoaga
Rebecca Parshall
Karen and Carl Patten
Philanthropy Southeast
Pledgeling Foundation
Celia Pope
Marcus Quettan and Alexandra Wiggins Quettan
John and Mandy Rahiya
Raymond James Local Offices Out of Area
Margie and Mike Reed
Patty and Doug Reid
Tyler Rheaves
Blythe Robinson
Jose Rodriguez
Gail E. Ronan
Kathie and Mitch Rushing
Bobby and Nikki Sabia
Jim Sawyer and Preetam Printz
Steve Schwartz
Selig Foundation
Marcia and John Shurley
Silver Cloud Fund
Katharine, Katriana and James Simmon
Tim Singer
Nancy Holton Skinner
Stephen Sloan
Southern Company Gas
Mildred and John Spalding
Jonathan St. Clair
Sam Starks
Linda Stouffer and Mark Strassmann
West and Ginny Streib
Lawson Sutton and Justin Troske
Maria and Timothy Tassopoulos
Mashonda Taylor
Bentina Terry
Duong Thai
The Bear`s Club
Jason Thomas
Winnifer Thomas-Cox
Kate Tracy
Cory L. Tripp
Stanley and Susie Trotman
Michael Turton
Karen J. Vanderyt
Betsy and Bill Verner
Amanda and David Wellen
Robert West
Bernie and Elizabeth Williams
James T. Willoughby
Christopher Winston
Ann and Noah Woodward
Judy O. Zaban
Friend $1 to $249
Qaadirah Abdur-Rahim
Victoria Aiken
Paula Aiken
Melissa Alexander
Mary Alexander-Adams
Carly and Joseph Ambler
The Marcell Anderson Foundation, Inc.
Zoe Andrews
Lametrica Andrews
Augusta National Golf Club
Camillus Avent
Evette Avery
Damon Bailey
Newell Baker
Leah Baldowski
Sean Barbarin
William and Eleanor Barron
Norman Bell
Shannon Bergman
Brian Betts
Claude Bey
Barbara Blender
William Blount
Kristie Blum
Saunders Bohan
Jessie Bond
Mr. Mendal Bouknight
Nelson Boyce
Robin D. Boyd
Amanda Brady
Itali Braziel
Lisa and William Bridges
Staci Brill
Barry Brown
Hillary Burden
Alicia Burroughs
Charles and Blondy Byam
April Callen
Alejandro Carderera
Gary and Michele Carr
Lesli Carroll
Willnar Carter
Derrick Clark
Lucia Clark
Danna Clary
Tom Clegg
Dr. Laivian Coleman
Haley Coleman
Dwain Coleman
Meredith and Charles Conklin
Billy and Charlie Cook and Family
Kelvin Cosby
Karen Cramer
Bob and Betsy Crosby
Simone Cutler
Jovan Davis
Austin and Lindsay Davis
Winifred and Tread Davis
Lindsey and Shelton Davis
Henry and Stephanie Davis
Katherine Delp
Jim Demick
Angela Denson
Andria Detaille
Melissa and Kenny Dix
Zipporah Dorsey
Tillman Douglas
David and Mynel Dubose
Willie Dukes
Madison Dunn
Marie and Jeff Dunovant
Josalyn Dykes
Adrian Edwards
Erin and Bill Evans
Eddie and Carla Fahy
Jeffrey P. Fell
Michele and Bob Fischbach
Alex and Sarah Beth Gagnon
Janet and Ronald Garceau
Edward Gasperini
Dr. and Mrs. Christian Geltz
Taylor Glover
Mr. and Mrs. William W. Goodrich
Andre Greenwood
Hill and Ellen Griffin
Deana Griffin
Sharon Hall-Thomas
Louis and Jill Harris
Yucca Harris
Twiggy Harris
Kyle Haskin
Corbin Heath
Ckyla Heath-Longino
Mrs. Nathan Vanmeter Hendricks, III
Stephanie and Neil Herceg
Lindsay Herterich
Ms. Marilyn J. Hill and Ms. Lynne T. Slaughter
Arnold Hoge
Akilah Holyfield
Nyjah Howard
Deb and Travis Hudson
Charlene Huff
Pam Hughes
Johnnie Hughes
Steve Husarik
Beli Infantry Johnson
Elizabeth Garges Izard
Larry Jacobs
Jenae Jenkins
Maysie Jenkins
Natalie Johnson
Carver Johnson
Okorie Johnson
Christina Jones
Michael Jordan
Rachel Kaney
Brenda Kea
Elizabeth Keyes
Calvin King
Kevin Kirchner and Angela Weiss
David Kirk
Byron Kirkpatrick
Daniel Kirslis
John Knox
Elizabeth and David Lanier
Diane Laughlin
Cathy Lawrence
Laura Lee-Kong
Al Lindseth
Dana Lisby
Dr. and Mrs. John Lochridge
Taylor Locklear
Kathy P. Loiselle
Mr. and Mrs. Ted Lucien
Lindsey and Kevin Luczynski
Elizabeth Lummus
Camye Mackey
Barbara Mangiafico
Nakia Manning
Mariel Marlow
Arrington Mason-Callaway
Richard Mauney
Kirk McCoy
Juanita McGowan
Megan and Peter McKnight
Clifton McKnight
Houston Merk
Michael Miles
Erika Miles Duar
Keith Millner and Charmaine Ward-Millner
Tonie Montgomery
Vivian Moore
Betsy and Calvin Moore
Sadera Moore
Steve Moore
Shariyf Muhammad
Kristin Myers
Kendrick Myers
Marvin Nesbitt
Dara Nicholson
Trina O’Brien
Courtney O`Donnell
Olusegun Osun
Tonya Parker
Martha Parrish
Greer Phillips
Theresa Prestwood
Reynold Quarcoo
Alexander M. Rankin, III
Matt Recio
Betsy and Haynes Roberts
Sara Kate Roberts
AJ Robinson & Nicole Ellerine
James Robinson
Dorothy and Juan Rose
Maureen Rose
Tracey Scott
Mary Shipe
Roy and Sarah T. Simkins
Gregory and Pamela Smith
H. Carson and Michael Smith
William D. Smith, Jr.
Laura Spearman
Edwin and Kayanne Staub
Linda and Mason Stephenson
Mark Stern
Brittany, Greg, Maddie, & Ben Sunshine
Jeanette Surita
Mr. and Mrs. Carl Swearingen
Joe Sweigart/Cigartainment
Theresa Taube
Aleta Taylor
Bryan Thomas
Sarita Thomas
Lewanna Tucker
Zen Turner
Cherie and Ed Van Winkle
Laura Vonnahme
Mike and Lyn Waldron
Gail Walker
Marcia Ware
Noah Washington
Nikki Watson
Phyllis Weiss
Lasandra White
Meisha B. White
Lyda Shaw White
Vance Wilder
Christine Wilkes
Karis Williams
Jacquita Williams
Greg Wilson
Kaitlyn Wilson
Woodie Wisebram
Frank Woodling
Muriel M. Woods
Lyman Wray and Leisa Wray Jitten
Stefanie and Chandler Yelverton
Kathy and Neely Young
Oliver Yowell
In Honor
In Honor of Rick Boyd
Brad Kates
In Honor of Ann and Thomas G. Cousins
Hobe Sound Staff
In Honor of East Lake Foundation Staff
LaSandra White
In Honor of David and Susie Deiters
Bill and Stephanie Deiters
In Honor of Lillian Giornelli
Cousins Properties Foundation
In Honor of Michael B. Hagearty
Leland Griffin
In Honor of Shannon Heath-Longino
Richard Mauney
Maureen Rose
In Honor of Joe Hudson
Deana Griffin
In Honor of Jane and Clayton F. Jackson
Ted and Marilyn Lucien
In Honor of Isaiah Johnston
Gina Johnston
In Honor of Anamaria Meanes
Sheri and Steven Labovitz
In Honor of John Murphy
Kate and Claude Nielsen
In Honor of Norma V. Nyhoff
Norma and Doug Nyhoff
In Honor of Chad Parker and Dave Purdie
Joe Sweigart/Cigartainment
In Honor of Bert Ponder
Deb and Travis Hudson
In Honor of Bria Sanders
Barry Brown
In Honor of The Simmons Family
Jovan Davis
Christopher Winston
In Memory
In Memory of Eva Davis
Caleb Heath
Brenda Kea
Gregory and Pamela Smith
In Memory of Don and Clara Edwards
Arthur and T’leatha Johnson
In Memory of William B. Estes III
Susan Harrod
In Memory of Jack F. Glenn, Jr.
Amanda Brady
Saunders Bohan
Mr. Mendal Bouknight
Meredith and Charles Conklin
Dr. Edward G. Gasperini
Lou and Patty Gerland
Lewis Glenn
Mike Hill
Mr. and Mrs. Charles D. Hurt, Jr.
Ms. Sherri Jones
Mr. John Knox
Elizabeth and David Lanier
Barbara Mangiafico
Brittany and John Molinaro
Greer Phillips
Laura Spearman
In Memory of Raymond A. Giornelli*
Martin Agati
Steve Bernstrom
Michele Buschman
Mindy Feinstein
Barry and Cindy Giornelli
The Hales Family Charitable Fund
Hank B. Harris III
Howard Jelks
Brittany and John Molinaro
Purpose Built Communities
Veronica and William Smith
*Gifts received in early Jan. 2026
In Memory of Charles W. Harrison
Jeffrey Armstrong
Mendal Bouknight
Pam and Rick Burton
Katherine and Kyle Caldwell
Bob and Betsy Crosby
Mr. and Mrs. Don Doran
Tillman Douglas
Erin and Bill Evans
Taylor Glover
Mr. Scott D. Hansen
Louis and Jill Harris
Phil and Melinda Holladay
Dr. and Mrs. Linton C. Hopkins III
Christina Jones
Wm. Loder
Dan and Patricia Mooza
Jared Paul and Kelley Harris
Kathie and Mitch Rushing
Jonathan St. Clair
Marcia and John Shurley
Janie and James Stratigos
Carson and Michael Smith
Mike and Lyn Waldron
Chris Witcher
Frank Woodling
Catherine H. Woodling
Mr. and Mrs. Danny Yates, III
In Memory of Gray Hurd
Larry Jacobs
In Memory of Dottie Kuhlman
Cynthia Kuhlman
In Memory of Gary Menard
Karen Cramer
In Memory of Lisa Moraitakis
Peter Moraitakis
In Memory of Jerry and Joe Patrick
Patrick Family Foundation
In Memory of Conor J. Rahiya
Mark Rahiya
In Memory of Dr. Rolando G. Recio
Matt Recio
In Memory of Solomon Simmons
Lametrica Andrews
Zoe Andrews
Kristie Blum
Laivian Coleman
Carol Newell
In Memory of Jacqueline Slaughter
Marilyn Hill and Lynne T. Slaughter
In Memory of Steven W. Surbaugh
Nancy Surbaugh
In Memory of Lorna Venker
Kathy P. Loiselle
In Memory of Don Wray
Lyman Wray
In Memory of Margaret and Dan Yates
Mynel and David Dubose
In Memory of P. Dan Yates, Jr.
Lanny Thomas
In Memory of Thomas G. Cousins
Ivan and Blain Allen
Paula and Brant Andrews
Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation
Augusta National Golf Club
William and Eleanor Barron
BlackRock Atlanta Office
Barbara Blender
Mr. Mendal Bouknight
Lisa and William Bridges
Staci Brill
Alison and Cameron Burns
Pam and Rick Burton
Lucia Clark
The Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta
Mr. and Mrs. Cecil D. Conlee
Billy and Charlie Cook and Family
Connie Cousins-Baker
Winifred and Tread Davis
Jim Demick
Andria Detaille
Dozen Dimes Foundation
Mark Eppert
John and Cindy Ethridge
William H. Ferguson
Michele and Bob Fischbach
Mr. and Mrs. John Frazer
Janet and Ronald Garceau
Lou and Tom Glenn
Deirdra Glover
NBC Sports Group
Mr. and Mrs. William W. Goodrich
John B. Haberlen
Sharon Hall-Thomas
Linda and Hank Harris
Valerie Hartman
Max and Amy Heineman
Arnold Hoge
Elizabeth and Thomas Holder
Dr. and Mrs. Linton Hopkins
Frances Huber
Wayne Hyatt
Mary Ellen Imlay
Eric Ingram
Elizabeth Garges Izard
Robert Jackson
Craig B. Jones
Sarah and Jim Kennedy
Daniel Kirslis
Charles B. and Lynne V. Knapp
Cynthia Kuhlman
Virginia Lane
Diane Laughlin
Pat and Bill Lummus
Christy and John Mack
Barbara F. Martin
Michelle Matthews
Jane S. McColl
Hala and Steve Moddelmog
Brittany and John Molinaro
Tracy Monk
Sadera Moore
Betsy and Calvin Moore
Dan and Patricia Mooza
Dara Nicholson
Glenn Cohen and Lynne Pattillo
Philanthropy Southeast
Alexander M. Rankin, III
Patty and Doug Reid
Tiger Management, L.L.C.
Robertson Foundation
AJ Robinson & Nicole Ellerine
Ray Robinson Family Foundation in Honor of Tom Cousins
Steve Schwartz
Selig Foundation
The Shearon & Taylor Glover Foundation
Marcia and John Shurley
Roy and Sarah T. Simkins
Nancy Holton Skinner
Stephen Sloan
Mildred and John Spalding
Edwin and Kayanne Staub
Linda and Mason Stephenson
Janie and Jim Stratigos
Mr. and Mrs. Carl Swearingen
Maria and Timothy Tassopoulos
Tracy Monk
The Bear`s Club
The Hales Family Charitable Fund
The Imlay Foundation, Inc.
Stanley and Susie Trotman
Troutman Pepper Locke
Lauren and Jonathan Tugman
Turner Foundation, Inc.
Cherie and Ed Van Winkle
Vend Purchase Group
Betsy and Bill Verner
Charlotte C. Weber and Virginia E. Moens
Phyllis Weiss
Lyda Shaw White
James T. Willoughby
Woodie Wisebram
Christopher Witcher
Catherine Woodling and Evan Strange
Mr. and Mrs. Danny Yates, III
Kathy and Neely Young
Judy O. Zaban
Our Board of Directors
Leading with Purpose and Impact
We deeply appreciate the vital contribution of our devoted board of directors to the East Lake Foundation, fostering opportunity, equity, and prosperity for all.
Immediate Past Chair
Phil Jacobs
Partner, The Pendleton Consulting Group
Vice Chair
Cheryl Lomax
Board Member, Purpose Built Schools Atlanta
Treasurer
Joyce Reto
Atlanta Office Managing Partner, RSM
Secretary
Sara Prince
Partner, McKinsey & Company
Board of Directors
Chloe Barzey
Managing Director Atlanta Office, Accenture
Board of Directors
Leonte Benton
President, T. Dallas Smith & Co.
Board of Directors
John Brewer
Chairman And CEO, Vantage Private Capital
Board Of Directors
Grant Cagle
President, Cagle Land, Timber, and Real Estate
Board Of Directors
Curley M. Dossman, Jr.
President, Georgia Pacific Foundation And Vice President Of Community Affairs, Georgia Pacific
Board Of Directors
Ed Elkins
Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, Norfolk Southern
Board of Directors
Mark Eppert
Chief Financial and Supply Chain Officer, Coca-Cola North America
Board of Directors
Marilyn Hack
Founder and Owner, CPR Learning Concepts, LLC
Board of Directors
Max Heineman
Co-Founder and CEO, Toldright
Board of Directors
Mark Lazarus
Chief Executive Officer, Versant
Board of Directors
Chuck Palmer
Partner, Troutman Pepper Locke
Board of Directors
Gerald Render
Managing Partner, Tillman and Managing Owner, Granny Nannies
Board of Directors
William Wesley
Senior Community Development Representative, Delta Community Credit Union
Board of Directors
Chris Womack
Chairman & CEO, Georgia Power
Board of Directors
Ilham Askia
President and Chief Executive Officer, East Lake Foundation
Advisory Board
Advisory Board
John R. Frazer
Managing Director of Private Client Services, Investment Research & Advisory Group
Advisory Board
Robert L. Johnston
President and Founder, First Communities
Advisory Board
Ray M. Robinson
President Emeritus, East Lake Golf Club; Citizens Trust Bank
Board Members Emeriti
Board Members Emeriti
Lillian Cousins Giornelli
Board Member, President, Cousins Foundation
Board Members Emeriti
Thomas G. Cousins
Founder and Chairman Emeritus, Cousins Properties, Inc. (Deceased)
Board Members Emeriti
Dr. James Don Edwards
Retired J.M. Tull Professor of Accounting, Terry College of Business at the University of Georgia (Deceased)
Our Partners
The programs and services provided by the East Lake Foundation would not be possible without the support of these committed partners who share our vision.
REVENUE
$8,420,155*
EXPENSES
$5,066,138*
*These unaudited numbers reflect the revenue and expenses of the East Lake Foundation
and its charitable contributions to its partners in the East Lake Initiative.
Impacting Lives in Our Community
For 30 years, the Foundation has proven that working with residents and public and private partners while providing the right combination of comprehensive programs and services is transformative for the community. Learn more on our website or see us in action below.
