Our Story
In 2008, a vision for community transformation took root in the Harrisburg neighborhood when Marsha Jones, then serving as the Outreach and Music Director at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, witnessed firsthand the daily struggles of Harrisburg residents. Her passion for helping the community found a kindred spirit in Gloria Norwood, who shared her determination to revitalize this once-thriving neighborhood. Together, they recognized that the community was grappling with the profound effects of poverty and needed meaningful intervention.
With initial funding from Gloria’s late husband, U.S. Representative Charlie Norwood, they embarked on an ambitious mission: to reach children, youth, and adults living in poverty while working to restore the foundation of a safe and caring community. Their comprehensive approach addressed fundamental needs, including housing, transportation, education, and literacy.
Timeline of Growth and Impact
2019
Program Evolution
In October 2019, the Boys with a Future program evolved into an intensive after-school program, focusing its efforts on twelve male youth from the Harrisburg neighborhood. This targeted approach allowed for more concentrated and impactful mentoring. Through these various initiatives and programs, Good Neighbor Ministries continues to fulfill its founding mission. It works tirelessly to create positive change and build a stronger, more resilient community in Harrisburg.
2018
Boys with a Future
Responding to the specific challenges facing young men in the community, Good Neighbor Ministries launched "Boys with a Future." This program was initiated by three Christian men from St. Luke and Trinity on the Hill United Methodist Churches, who recognized that boys from fatherless homes in low-income neighborhoods face particularly high risks of:
- School failure and exclusion
- Low educational attainment
- Gang involvement
- Substance abuse
- Criminal justice involvement
The program specifically targeted youth growing up with limited access to positive adult male role models and those exposed to poverty and violence. It aimed to change the narrative for young men who statistically faced a greater likelihood of imprisonment than college attendance.
2016
Overcoming Adversity
The organization faced a significant challenge when St. Luke United Methodist Church, their home base, was devastated by fire on December 28, 2016. The loss of their sanctuary space forced a two-year pause in the Kids with a Future program.
2013
Addressing Food Security
Recognizing the critical need for fresh, healthy food options in the community, Good Neighbor Ministries helped finance the launch of Augusta Locally Grown through the Veggie Park Market initiative.
2009
Expanding Their Reach
In a significant year of growth, Good Neighbor Ministries achieved two major milestones:
- Official establishment as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization
- Creation of Harrisburg Family Healthcare, a free clinic dedicated to providing essential medical care to neighborhood residents
2008
Kids with a Future
The organization's first initiative, "Kids with a Future," was established to provide local children a haven and engaging activities. This program laid the groundwork for a much broader community impact.