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NEWS BRIEFS: Create Gwinnett wins art cross sector impact grant

Create Gwinnett, Inc. has been awarded a FY26 South Arts Cross Sector Impact Grant to support a three-year arts and health partnership with View Point Health, Gwinnett County’s community-based behavioral health provider.

The initial award for $15,000 supports the launch of an arts-centered initiative within View Point Health’s Adult Day Program in Lawrenceville. The project will bring creative engagement, expression, and connection to adults  with behavioral health, developmental disabilities and complex needs, enhancing health and well-being through the power of the arts.

Jonathan Holmes, Board Chair of Create Gwinnett, says: “This partnership with View Point Health will bridge their existing programs with our artist community in ways we’ve never seen in Gwinnett. Our most underserved citizens will benefit with connection, self-expression, and the social and emotional skills provided by the arts.”

The Cross Sector Impact Grant program supports partnerships that connect the arts with non-arts sectors to address community priorities, strengthen systems, and improve quality of life. Create Gwinnett’s collaboration with View Point Health aligns with both organizations’ commitment to equitable access, inclusion, and community well-being.

Dr.  Jennifer Speights, chief people officer for View Point Health, says: “This project is an exciting opportunity to deepen the way we support the adults we serve. Creative experiences bring opportunities for growth in the social and emotional capacity of our participants providing them soft skills that many do not learn any other way.”

The initial program period is for one year, but South Arts has a keen interest in growing programs over a three-year period with additional funding. Create Gwinnett is already seeking additional opportunities to expand the program from other funders and community partners.

  • For more information about Create Gwinnett’s creative economy initiatives, visit www.creategwinnett.org

Peach State plans $267,000 in grants 

The Peach State FCU C.A.R.E.S. Foundation is accepting applications for its 2026 annual scholarship program. The Foundation will be awarding over $267,000 in scholarships and educational grants to help students reach their academic goals.

Ryan Hawk, Peach State’s Executive Director of Business Development and Community Outreach and C.A.R.E.S. Foundation president says:  “Since 2002, we have awarded over $2 million to help offset the expenses of continuing education for students so they continue to unlock their potential. Scholarships are available for seniors and adults seeking career advancement. No matter where you are in your educational journey, we’re to help you take the next step toward your future.”

The scholarship program honors the credit union’s deep rooted history in education, Peach State FCU’s founders, past and present board members and employees, and the distinguished legacies of many notable school system and community leaders. For eligibility criteria and to apply, please visit peachstatefcu.org/scholarships. Application deadline is February 27, 2026. Recipients will be announced in the Spring of 2026.

NOTABLE

Kiwanis Club plans 17th Valentine’s Dance

The Kiwanis Club of North Gwinnett will present its 17th annual Father-Daughter Valentine’s Dance in 2006.

Join this for a magical evening, making memories that will last a lifetime!  There will be three dances again this year at the Braselton Civic Center:

  • February 6th – 7 to 9 p.m.
  • February 7th – 5 to 7 p.m.
  • February 7th – 9 to 10 p.m.
  • Dress: Dressy/Semi-Formal.

To participate, all dances are $100 per couple, and $10 for each additional daughter. If you have questions, contact David Williams 404-386-4782 or Chris Witmer 404-213-5929, or email kiwanis.of.north.gwinnett@gmail.com.

Click the links below to purchase tickets and for more information:

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