At Vashti, transformation isn’t just a word — it’s a heartbeat that echoes through schools, homes, and communities across Georgia. Each story of progress, healing, and hope exists because of people like you — our steadfast partners in this mission. Together, we’re helping children, teens, families, and caregivers discover their value, worth, and purpose.
In FY25, more than 1,500 lives were touched through our four-core trauma-informed behavioral health programs. Here’s what your support made possible.
Community Counseling
In six counties, 481 children found healing through our school-based counseling program — a safe space to learn, process, and grow. Of those with active caregiver involvement, 75% showed measurable improvement in emotional health over 12 months.
This year marked the debut of Camp Thrive in Brooks County, a summer program designed to help youth connect, build confidence, and strengthen emotional resilience. Plans are already underway to expand to Colquitt County by 2026.
Our partnership with the University of Virginia’s Data Science Capstone Project — made possible through the generosity of Ron Hutchins and Marlit Hayslett — is helping us advance data-driven storytelling. Because behind every number, there’s a child’s story of healing that deserves to be told.
Residential Program (RBWO – Room, Board & Watchful Oversight)
For youth who come to us with deep wounds and heavy burdens, our residential program provides a structured, nurturing environment — a place where restoration begins.
In FY25, 41 youth (ages 13–17) found stability and support within our 20-bed facility. Sixty percent reached placement stability during their average nine-month stay, and 88% achieved measurable improvements in behavioral health.
This progress is strengthened by partnerships with DFCS, DJJ, Southern Regional Technical College (for workforce development), and the Watkins Christian Foundation (for spiritual development and capital campaign).
A success story: Six of our teens graduated from high school this year — many arriving at Vashti one to two years behind academically. Their accomplishments reflect not only their strength and determination but also the healing environment your support helps sustain.
Afterschool Program
For 52 children and adolescents in Thomasville City and Thomas County Schools, our afterschool program became a consistent source of care, belonging, and mentorship. Every single participant identified a trusted adult — a powerful indicator of emotional safety and support.
This program continues to thrive, fully funded by the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) and the BOOST Grant,
Training & Outreach
Prevention and education are at the heart of lasting change. This year, we reached more than 1,200 professionals, caregivers, and teens through free trauma-informed workshops covering topics such as grief, suicide prevention, parenting, and mental health first aid.
Our Youth Advisory Council (YAC) empowers students to become mental health ambassadors in their schools — equipping them to recognize warning signs, offer support, and foster resilience among peers.
These programs are made possible through collaboration with the Pittuloch Foundation, Resilient Georgia, Georgia State University, and the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM).
The Outcomes We See
Across all our programs, we see more than numbers — we see transformation. Children attend school more consistently. Grades and graduation rates are rise. Anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts decline. Families communicate more effectively. Communities become more resilient.
We witness fewer juvenile justice referrals, less school incidents, and a greater sense of belonging and hope among youth. Together, we equip Georgia’s children to overcome their adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and step confidently toward brighter futures.
Recognition & Accountability
Vashti remains a CARF-accredited organization — a distinction that affirms our commitment to the highest international standards of quality and accountability. Georgia DBHDD honored Vashti with the Systems of Care Merit Award for our statewide impact.
Our Mission
With God as our cornerstone, Vashti fosters healing, hope, and transformation to empower and promote resiliency in children, families, and communities across Georgia.
Together, we build resilience, restore hope, and change lives — one child, one family, and one community at a time.
Ways to Give
You make this work possible. To continue your support, visit GoVashti.org/Give, email donate@vashti.org, or call our Director of Marketing & Development, Audrey Copeland, at 229.226.4634 x126.
Your generosity changes stories — and those stories change the world.