Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Atlanta Court Appointed Special Advocates Inc.
Legal Name (if Different): NA
Also Known As: NA
Mailing Address: 395 Pryor Street SW, Suite 4116
City: Atlanta, Ga
State: GA
Postal Code: 30312
Main Phone: 7703629168
Main Fax: NA
Organization Website: www.atlantacasa.org
Employer ID Number: 582330915
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 02/09/2026
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title: Back To School Gear Up Event
Project Description:

Atlanta CASA’s Back-to-School Gear Up Event is a coordinated, community-driven initiative designed to ensure that children and youth involved in the foster care and child welfare systems begin the school year equipped, confident, and ready to learn. The event addresses the disproportionate educational barriers faced by foster youth, including frequent school changes, limited access to basic supplies, and the emotional stress that accompanies system involvement.
Through this annual event, Atlanta CASA distributes new backpacks filled with grade-appropriate school supplies, personal hygiene and wellness items, and age-specific educational materials to children served by the organization in Fulton County. When feasible, the event also connects families and caregivers to supportive resources such as school-readiness guidance, mental-health information, and referrals to trusted community partners. The goal is not only to meet immediate material needs, but also to promote stability, dignity, and a sense of normalcy for students entering a new academic year.
The Back-to-School Gear Up Event is implemented through a centrally coordinated, in-person distribution supported by Atlanta CASA staff, trained CASA volunteers, and corporate and community partners. Planning and logistics are overseen by program leadership, while volunteers assist with kit assembly, registration, and distribution to ensure a welcoming and organized experience for families. Outreach and participant identification are coordinated through CASA case assignments, foster caregivers, and child-welfare partners to ensure the event reaches children with the greatest need.
By reducing financial strain on foster families, supporting educational readiness, and reinforcing positive adult engagement, the Back-to-School Gear Up Event strengthens academic stability and overall well-being for vulnerable youth. The initiative reflects Atlanta CASA’s commitment to equity, prevention, and early intervention—recognizing that when children start school prepared and supported, they are better positioned to succeed both in the classroom and beyond.

Total Project Budget: 25,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Atlanta CASA Board of Directors Board Giving January 2025 $10,000 100% board giving commitment Individual Donors Community Gifts Ongoing 2025 $7,500 Confirmed contributions to date Pending Support Source Type Anticipated Decision Date Requested Amount Notes TJX Foundation Corporate Grant November 2025 $10,000 Pending request for school supplies Truist Foundation Foundation Grant November 2025 $12,500 Pending support for volunteer engagement International Paper Foundation Corporate Foundation December 2025 $5,000 Pending request to fund hygiene kits

Project Duration: 12 months (o1/01/ – 12/31
Geographical Area Served: Metropolitan Atlanta – Fulton County
Age Group To Be Served: 3-18

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mr
Contact First Name: Curtis
Contact Last Name: Winston
Contact Title: Grant Writer
Contact Phone: 7703629168
Contact Email: curtis@atlantacasa.org