RISE Augusta Receives Prestigious Georgia Reads Community Award

AUGUSTA, GA (February 26, 2025) – RISE Augusta has been recognized as one of ten organizations across Georgia to receive the distinguished Georgia Reads Community Award for its outstanding literacy programs and local impact. The award, presented by the Georgia Council on Literacy, acknowledges organizations with proven success in literacy improvements and a commitment to community collaboration. As part of this honor, RISE Augusta will receive $25,000 to further its literacy initiatives.

“We are so honored to receive this prestigious award. The goal of RISE Augusta is to help children succeed in school and life,” said Jay Murray, Chairman of the Board, RISE Augusta and Augusta President, Truist Bank.

RISE Augusta’s success is built on a collaborative model, working with organizations such as the Community Foundation of the CSRA, Jessye Norman School of the Arts, RESA, the Richmond County School System, and the Harris Literacy Center. These partnerships ensure that local students have access to the resources they need to improve reading proficiency and overall academic achievement.

The Georgia Reads Community Award winners were recognized at the Georgia State Capitol as part of Georgia Reads Day, a statewide initiative addressing literacy challenges. In addition to the award, each winning organization will participate in a Reading Rally led by Malcolm Mitchell, CEO & Founder of the Share the Magic Foundation, who also serves as the Georgia Reads Coach.

For more information on RISE Augusta and its literacy initiatives, visit our ABOUT US page; call or email Laurie Cook (lcook@riseaugusta.org) or 706-550-7716.