Page 22 - South Mississippi Living - January, 2016

COASTNOTES
New service organization sponsors God’s Green Acres
There’s a new service organization
on the Coast that’s quickly having
an impact on the community. The Mississippi Gulf Coast Connection began its journey as a community service organization when long time residents Catherine Mason and Dr. Persharon Dixon brought to fruition the idea they had been discussing for a year.
The two ladies brought together a group of professional and civically- focused African-American women
to discuss the formation of the organization. “The objective was to invite women desiring to engage in transformational projects benefitting communities of the Mississippi Gulf Coast,” Dixon said. “Those gathered recognized that there are numerous concerns in communities of color in all three counties. The concerns could be greatly impacted by focused work on specific issues identified by these women who have been long-time participants in community service.”
The founders believe the members’ collective knowledge, contacts, and expertise will be powerful in leading to sustainable changes and improvements. The mission is to engage communities in programs that will make a difference and be sustainable. “We will do this by providing programming and resources to support health initiatives, the arts, youth projects, and education,” Dixon said.
The organization participated in a
The Mississippi Gulf Coast Connection group breaks ground on the urban garden for God’s Green Acres with Back Bay Mission.
story by Lynn Lofton photo by Teddy Lewis
Cha Cha for the Tatas line dancing fundraiser that supports the purchase of mammograms for low-income women and a seminar conducted with Wholly Living Medical Professionals that provided education on breast cancer screenings, risk factors, and the latest recommendations. In November, Thanksgiving dinners were provided for families in need in each county.
The group is a supporting partner
of the urban garden initiative, God’s Green Acres, with Back Bay Mission in Biloxi. “We are elated to provide equipment and supplies to start this self-sustaining garden that will be maintained by Back Bay Mission residents,” Dixon said. “We know that
projects like these not only provide ongoing nourishment, but in this case, a sense of purpose. We are helping these residents help themselves, develop a skill, build self-worth and accountability, and provide healthy food options.”
Officers are Dr. Persharon Dixon and Cathy Mason, co-chairman; Dr. Carmen Walters, treasurer; Jocelyn Lane, financial secretary; and Dr. Barbara Thomas, program liaison.
Mississippi Gulf Coast Connection
Dr. Persharon Dixon 228.234.5582
22 SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living • January 2016
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