Catalyst for Change across Sumter County: 2020-2024

grow 2024

growing sumter county

Since its inception in 2014, the One Sumter Economic Development Foundation, Inc. has dedicated itself to serving as a catalyst for change throughout Sumter County. By building community collaboratives to tackle issues such as workforce development, rural broadband infrastructure, public safety, economic development, and branding – One Sumter has been able to bridge together different sectors throughout the community to work toward a common goal. 

The Rev. Pearly Brown Music Park

On the site of the former Habitat for Humanity Global Village, the One Sumter Economic Development Foundation is constructing a park that will feature a massive 35,000 sq. ft. amphitheater, making it one of the region’s largest, along with a dog park, children’s playground, and plenty of open space for all to enjoy.

Named after the legendary Reverend Pearly Brown, a blind guitarist and singer, the park will honor his musical legacy that transcended genres and influenced countless artists. We aspire for this park to become a vibrant hub for arts and music, shaping Americus for generations to come.

Ignite College and Career Academy

Opened in 2021 through a partnership with One Sumter and Sumter County Schools, South Georgia Technical College, Georgia Southwestern State University, the Americus-Sumter County Chamber of Commerce, and the Sumter County Development Authority, Ignite College and Career Academy fuels the dreams and future career prospects for our high school students in Sumter County, Georgia. Ignite helps them assess their passions, determine career pathways that will enable them to turn passions into careers, and give them the skills they need either to start work upon graduation from high school or to get a head start on post-secondary studies.

projects

Food insecurity

Eliminating the financial and transportation barriers to quality, healthy foods

wayfinding

Developing and advocating for a comprehensive signage system for all of Sumter County

REV. PEARLY BROWN MUSIC PARK

Working towards developing an amphitheater and park to honor legendary Rev. Pearly Brown

pineland II

Committed and significant partner to enhancing rural Sumter County’s access to quality broadband expansion

community safety

Instrumental in advocating for crime prevention initiatives to support our community and law enforcement

leadership development

Invested in ensuring an effective 2020 Census, continues to offer support to South GeorgiaLEADS, and provided funding to support Chamber Champions