The Dr. Annise Mabry Foundation, founded by Dr. Annise Mabry, is making significant waves in Georgia’s education and community development. Dr. Mabry has become a powerful advocate for change with a mission centered around breaking down educational barriers, empowering marginalized communities, and fostering a supportive environment for at-risk youth. Her efforts to redefine education have created a unique homeschooling model and established crucial partnerships with local schools and law enforcement agencies. This article explores how one mother’s vision has become a movement, transforming Georgia’s education landscape and community engagement.
Dr. Annise Mabry’s journey began in 2012 when she established the Tiers Free Academy Homeschool Cooperative. Initially created to provide a tailored education for her own children, the cooperative quickly expanded its reach. Since its inception, it has successfully graduated over 1,000 high school students, many of whom have gone on to attend prestigious universities such as Princeton, Georgia State University, the University of Georgia, and the University of Arizona. This success is a testament to Dr. Mabry’s innovative approach, which prioritizes trauma-informed care and individualized learning plans that cater to the unique needs of each student.
The Tiers Free Academy Homeschool Cooperative stands out as Georgia’s only trauma-informed homeschool program. It offers a safe and nurturing environment where students, many of whom have faced significant challenges, can thrive. This distinctive approach has earned the cooperative the trust of local school districts, allowing it to accept student referrals from public schools. Furthermore, Dr. Mabry’s foundation has established service-level education contracts with law enforcement agencies, providing educational services to youth and at-risk adults. These partnerships demonstrate the broad impact of Dr. Mabry’s work, which extends beyond traditional education to encompass community safety and support.
Dr. Mabry’s advocacy is rooted in her belief that education should be inclusive and accessible to all, regardless of background or circumstance. Her work addresses the gaps in traditional education systems, offering alternatives for those who may not thrive in conventional school settings. This philosophy is reflected in the Foundation’s comprehensive range of programs, which include homeschooling support, youth mentorship, leadership development, adult education, and workforce development. By focusing on holistic development, Dr. Mabry ensures that her students are academically prepared and equipped with the life skills necessary for success.
The impact of Dr. Mabry’s work has not gone unnoticed. In recognition of her dedication to education and community service, she has received numerous accolades, including a proclamation from Georgia State Representative Doreen Carter and the 2023 Community Impact Award from Georgia City Solutions of the Georgia Municipal Association. These honors underscore Dr. Mabry’s significant contributions to her community and highlight the importance of her innovative approach to education.
One of the most notable aspects of Dr. Mabry’s work is her ability to identify and address the specific needs of marginalized and at-risk individuals. Her initiatives are designed to provide practical solutions that empower those often left behind by traditional systems. For example, the Foundation’s youth mentorship programs connect young people with positive role models who offer guidance, support, and opportunities for personal growth. This connection helps build a sense of community and belonging, which is essential for developing self-confidence and resilience.
Dr. Mabry’s commitment to education extends beyond the youth population. Understanding the importance of lifelong learning, the Foundation also offers programs for adults. These initiatives focus on skill development, job training, and career advancement, helping participants achieve financial independence and stability. By partnering with technical colleges, the Foundation provides opportunities for adults to gain industry certifications, equipping them with the tools needed to succeed in today’s competitive job market.
Beyond education, Dr. Mabry has made significant contributions to criminal justice and mental health. Her efforts to develop the first rural Residential Substance Abuse Treatment program at the Washington County Sheriff’s Office jail have provided a crucial lifeline for individuals seeking to overcome addiction. This program, one of the few education-centered initiatives in rural Georgia, includes a partnership with a technical college, ensuring that participants leave with valuable skills and certifications. Additionally, Dr. Mabry’s role in creating a multi-agency rural co-responder crisis team, which pairs mental health professionals with deputies, highlights her commitment to comprehensive community support.
Dr. Annise Mabry’s legacy is one of innovation, compassion, and relentless advocacy for those who are often overlooked. Her work with The Dr. Annise Mabry Foundation has transformed the lives of individuals and families and inspired broader systemic change. By challenging the status quo and demonstrating the value of alternative education and community support, Dr. Mabry is paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.
For more information about The Dr. Annise Mabry Foundation and its transformative programs, please visit www.drannisemabry.com and www.tiersfreeacademy.org. Stay updated on the Foundation’s latest initiatives and community efforts by following The Dr. Annise Mabry Foundation on Facebook.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
