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Discover Bryan PUBLISHER’S THOUGHTS
Welcome to our annual “Discover Bryan” issue.
In this special edition, we showcase the heart of Bryan County through the voices that matter most: yours. We asked you to vote on the best schools and neighborhoods, and your responses paint a picture of a community that values education and takes pride in where we live.
You’ll be inspired by the story of AJ and Alana Bernard, two remarkable young actors from Richmond Hill who recently worked on the new Superman movie. Their journey from our local community to Hollywood sets demonstrates the incredible talent we’re nurturing right here in Bryan County. These siblings remind us that big dreams can take root in small towns.
We’re also proud to feature Extra Special People and their mission of building community and inclusive experiences for these youth.
Finally, we explore the remarkable growth trajectory of our area, from the historic impact of Henry Ford to the transformative presence of the new Hyundai Metaplant. This story connects our industrial heritage to our promising future, highlighting how Bryan County continues to attract major investments while maintaining its community character.
Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to our area, this issue will help you discover – or rediscover – why Bryan County is such a special place to call home. From our award-winning schools to our welcoming neighborhoods, from our rising stars to our inclusive organizations, we have so much to celebrate.
Thank you for being part of what makes Bryan County a great place to live, work and play.
CEO/Publisher
Bryan County Magazine
Jan Southern
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SUPER SIBLINGS
Local actors give us a glimpse on their way to stardom
Story by Cindy Reid | Photography by Aaron Hoffman
TTen-year-old AJ and thirteen-year-old Alayna
Bernard are siblings from Richmond Hill working hard to catch their big break in the acting industry. What started with a simple flooring commercial has transformed into an impressive journey of learning lines, navigating auditions, handling rejection, mastering life “on set,” and managing success with remarkable grace.
Supported by their level-headed and practical mom, Magdalena Bernard, they’re a refreshing departure from typical “stage kids.” Sweet and savvy, both children are delightfully down-to-earth with a variety of interests and talents that extend far beyond the camera. Recently, they both landed roles in the blockbuster Superman movie – and if you’ve been following the film’s marketing campaign, you’ve likely seen AJ’s powerful scene holding the Superman flag, featured in three official trailers.
Superman: From “Genesis” to Global Success
Landing a role in a major production like Superman doesn’t happen overnight. The journey began when the children’s agent secured them an audition for a mysterious production code-named “Genesis.” At the time, AJ was nine and Alayna was eleven. Both auditioned on the same day and were asked to hold certain dates.
AJ adds, “He was really nice and easy to chat with, and he gave me a special Pez dispenser – one of the superhero ones.”
One of the most cinematic moments in the entire film belongs to AJ: he’s seen in the middle of a battle, struggling to raise a long pole with a homemade Superman flag while praying for Superman to save the day. It’s a classic superhero moment that delivers exactly the emotional punch audiences expect.
While AJ and Alayna said the flag scene was “filmed pretty quickly” and seemed like just another day on set, Magdalena recognized its significance. “I knew AJ’s role was integral to the story and that moment was the emotional arc of the movie. It’s a great moment.”
The family was on a cruise when the trailer featuring AJ was released. Unfortunately, most of Alayna’s scenes were cut during editing, though you can spot her assisting AJ with the flag. “Oh my gosh!” Alayna says. “It was exciting but a little hard. The whole cruise, my dad kept saying, ‘You can see your arm!’ which was really sweet.” She’s hoping to see her deleted scenes on the extended DVD release.
“Thankfully, after a day or two, they told us they were both chosen, and we were so excited!” says Magdalena. “We had no idea it was the Superman movie because the script pages they gave us never mentioned Superman. Instead, they referred to a character named ‘Ion Man,’ so we thought maybe it was Iron Man.”
When another production showed interest in AJ, creating a scheduling conflict, the family made a strategic decision to wait for the call from DC Studios. “Once we got the call from production and they told us it was Superman, we were so glad we stayed available for it!” Magdalena recalls.
Production primarily took place in Atlanta, with location filming throughout Georgia and Ohio. The children’s scenes were shot in Macon, in what Alayna describes as “a big desert area” – their parts were set in a desert war zone. AJ loved riding the ‘gator’ (an all-terrain vehicle) to set, which was necessary due to the massive amount of sand covering the location. “There were tons of military vehicles, tons of soldiers, and Jarhanpurian people,” he remembers.
Writer-director James Gunn left a lasting positive impression on both young actors. “He would tell us what to fix and was really nice,” Alayna shares.
Alayna handles the disappointment like a true professional: “I still got to do my own stunt. They asked me, ‘Can you fall?’ I said yes, and I fell on my butt, got up, and ran away. They did three takes, and I got right up each time.”
As for AJ, he’s enjoying his moment in the spotlight while already looking forward to his next role. As of July 27, 2025, Superman has grossed $289.5 million in the United States and Canada, and $213.2 million internationally, for a worldwide total of $502.7 million.
Show Business: From Dreams to Reality
Alayna’s love for acting began at age six when she watched other children on TV and declared, “I want to do that!” Around that same time, the NBC series “Council of Dads” was filming in Savannah. Magdalena submitted both herself and Alayna as extras. While they’d already cast the children’s roles, Magdalena was chosen, and being on set gave her the motivation to make Alayna’s dream a reality.
“I searched Facebook groups for acting information and learned a lot,” Magdalena explains. “I found a local photographer and acting coach, then Alayna got a manager who helped us connect with a really good agent in Atlanta.”
During COVID, filmmakers preferred using children from the same household to minimize infection risk, which led to AJ’s first acting job alongside Alayna in a Pergo flooring commercial. AJ loved the experience,
continued pursuing more work, and was eventually signed by Alayna’s agent as well.
This led to a role in “Miracle Across 125th Street,” a VH1 movie written by and starring Nick Cannon, which showcased AJ’s musical talents. “Nick Cannon taught me how to play ‘Mary Had a Little Lamb’ on the piano,” AJ recalls. He also sang “This Little Light of Mine” on screen.
“The movie experience gave AJ the opportunity to discover his musical talents and love for music,” his mother notes. “After that experience, he took voice lessons for three years. Now he sings and plays guitar. AJ really is a music prodigy.”
AJ has also appeared in episodes of “Chicago P.D.” and “Ruthless” (a Tyler Perry drama series), plus the movie “Strays” with Jamie Foxx and Will Ferrell.
Alayna started as an extra but had bigger aspirations: “I wanted to see myself on screen and on Disney.” Beyond Superman, she’s appeared in “Wife Stalker,” “Not Another Church Movie,” and the series “The Advocate,” among many other credits and commercials. Both children are also featured on Disney Magic Bands – wristbands that use technology to connect guests to various experiences at Disney theme parks.
Being on sets can be tedious, but Alayna enjoys hanging out in the performers’ trailer and visiting craft services (the meal area) between takes. AJ loves craft services too, plus watching
the action on monitors. His mother says he’s fascinated by what happens behind the scenes and loves helping with production. “My favorite is holding the slate,” he says.
“I am an on-camera girl,” Alayna laughs. “I have no idea how any of the technical side works!”
Magdalena notes that child actors today have a very different experience than in the past. She accompanies her children to every shoot and explains, “There’s a child labor representative on set, so there’s always someone advocating for the child’s needs.”
School & Fun Stuff: Keeping It Real
Unlike many young working actors, both children attend regular school rather than being homeschooled. Magdalena says the school superintendent and teachers have been accommodating and supportive, while she ensures the children complete their work and meet attendance requirements.
When not at school or auditioning, Alayna stays busy as a competitive dancer and gymnast. She’s even managed to compete while away on set. “I love dancing and gymnastics,” she says. “I was able to work with other gyms to keep up my skills when I was away, and I could watch videos so I wouldn’t fall behind.”
Her brother plays basketball, competes in swimming, and will be testing for his black belt in November.
Magdalena emphasizes that acting is “just something they do – it’s not their whole life. Sometimes they win and sometimes they don’t, which helps keep the kids grounded and humble. There’s always another role, and that helps heal when their hearts are a little broken.”
In fact, right after this interview, Alayna and her mother were headed to Tampa, Florida, where she was reprising her role in “Advocate Part 2,” a series on Pure Flix. AJ had just finished filming “Husband’s Revenge,” a Lifetime movie.
Magdalena says that although she stays busy juggling her government job with being available for the children, it’s “really a tag team effort” between her and husband Augusto Bernard, who retired after twenty years in the military. The family, which includes two older siblings, loves spending time at Tybee Island beach and going out for pizza.
“And gummy candy!” AJ adds with a grin. So keep your eyes on the screen for these two local kids who are absolutely crushing it in Hollywood – while staying true to their Richmond Hill roots! ■
Richmond Hill’s Ford-Era Heritage Trail Earns Prestigious State Tourism Award
Richmond Hill is making headlines across Georgia – and for all the right reasons! The Richmond Hill Convention & Visitors Bureau just snagged a major win at the 2025 Georgia Tourism Awards, earning statewide recognition for their innovative approach to showcasing our region’s rich history.
A Modern Twist on Historic Charm
The Georgia Association of Convention and Visitors Bureaus presented Richmond Hill’s CVB with the coveted Georgia Tourism Award on February 4, specifically honoring their revamped Driving Trail of Henry Ford’s Southern Town. This isn’t just any heritage trail – it’s part of the larger Coastal Bryan Heritage Trail and comes complete with a cutting-edge mobile app that’s changing how visitors experience our local history.
Richmond Hill’s fascinating heritage. At the heart of the experience is the story of automotive pioneer Henry Ford and his wife Clara, who purchased 85,000 acres in Richmond Hill in 1925, making our community their winter retreat for nearly 25 years.
But Ford’s legacy is just one chapter in this rich historical narrative. The trail also explores African American History, Civil War sites, Colonial landmarks, Historic Cemeteries, Historic Churches, Historic Homes, and Native American heritage –painting a complete picture of the diverse communities that shaped our region.
Recognition Well Deserved
“We created this app to cater to the modern tourist, who uses technology to learn more about the communities they visit,” explained Christy Sherman, Executive Director of the Richmond Hill CVB. “The Driving Trail of Henry Ford’s Southern Town was the perfect project to integrate available technology with history.”
What Makes This Trail Special
While the heritage trail has been guiding visitors through Richmond Hill’s storied past for years, this award-winning update brings some exciting new features that are drawing tourists from across the Southeast:
• Fresh Perspective: Newly selected historic sites paired with a completely revised driving trail booklet and mobile app
• Enhanced Storytelling: New audio narration brings history to life, complemented by additional historic photographs
• Smart Navigation: An improved GPS map system ensures visitors never miss a stop
• Instagram-Worthy Moments: Strategically placed Model A cars serve as designated “selfie spots,” complete with QR codes on faux license plates that invite visitors to “Rev up their adventure” and “Fuel their fun” with direct links to local shopping, dining, and attractions
A Journey Through Time
The free, GPS-enabled app transforms any smartphone into a personal tour guide, leading visitors through
The Georgia Tourism Awards celebrate individuals and organizations demonstrating exceptional leadership, creativity, and innovation in Georgia’s travel industry. This particular honor – part of the Bill Hardman Sr. Tourism Champion Award category – recognizes Richmond Hill’s CVB for their leadership role in developing tourism opportunities throughout Bryan County.
The award was presented at the Georgia Association of Convention and Visitors Bureaus Annual Conference in Gwinnett, where Richmond Hill stood alongside more than 10 other organizations and individuals recognized for excellence in tourism development across the state.
Ready to Explore?
Whether you’re a longtime Bryan County resident or planning your first visit to Richmond Hill, this awardwinning heritage trail offers a fresh way to connect with the stories that make our community special. The app is available for free download at visitrichmondhill.com/ Itineraries-History.php.
Located on the scenic Great Ogeechee River just south of Savannah, Richmond Hill continues to honor Henry Ford’s vision while creating new opportunities for visitors to discover the natural beauty and rich heritage that first drew the automotive legend to our corner of coastal Georgia.
Ready to rev up your own adventure through Richmond Hill’s heritage trail? Download the app and discover why this innovative approach to historical tourism is earning statewide recognition. ■
Photo: Sam McDuffie, GACVB Vice President; Christy Sherman, Executive Director, Richmond Hill Convention and Visitors Bureau; and Chris Hardeman, GACVB Board Ex-Officio, celebrate Richmond Hill’s tourism award win.
Echoes of Ford Hyundai Drives a New Chapter in Bryan County
Story by Gail Parsons
Acentury ago, one of America's most famous industrialists turned his eyes to a quiet corner of coastal Georgia. Today, that same region—Bryan County—is once again in the spotlight, this time with a different kind of automotive vision.
Henry Ford, the legendary founder of the Ford Motor Company, discovered something special in what was then known as Ways Station, Georgia. Drawn by the region's abundant land and potential for agricultural experimentation, Ford and his wife Clara arrived in 1925 and quietly set about transforming the rural community. Now, nearly a century later, global auto giant Hyundai is bringing its own brand of transformation to the region, signaling a new chapter in Bryan County's evolving identity.
Ford's Vision Takes Root
When Henry and Clara first visited southeast Georgia, they weren't looking to expand an empire. They were searching for a location suitable for rubber-producing plants and building a winter home, said Christy Sherman, executive director of the Richmond Hill Convention & Visitors Bureau.
“They lived in Michigan and had a winter home in Fort Myers, Florida, where they lived right next door to Thomas Edison,” Sherman said. "But they only had five acres of land. They were looking for a new place to build a winter home.”
Ford, Edison and Harvey Firestone—fellow members of the so-called “Vagabonds”—were also experimenting with rubber-producing plants at the time. A naturalist friend, John Burroughs, pointed them to coastal Georgia, where defunct rice plantations offered ample acreage and the promise of a warm winter retreat.
They found what they were looking for, and much more.
“They amended the soil, brought in chemists and experts, and experimented with thousands of different species of plants in hopes of growing rubber to produce tires and other automobile parts domestically,” Sherman said. "That didn't work out very well. But in the meantime, he began experimenting with a lot of different agricultural crops and giving people employment opportunities here. They kind of inadvertently found out that iceberg lettuce grew very well here, so they were employing a lot of people growing lettuce and shipping it all over the Southeast.”
Between 1925 and the early 1940s, Ford quietly purchased over 85,000 acres of land. Although his early trials with rubber plants proved unsuccessful, his impact on the community was just beginning.
Transforming a Community
At the time, Bryan County was one of the most impoverished areas in Georgia. Once wealthy thanks to antebellum rice plantations, the region suffered economic ruin following the Civil War, a series of devastating hurricanes, and the Great Depression. Malaria and hookworm were rampant. Many residents had little access to formal education, and unemployment was high.
“He just saw it as a place that he really believed in,” Sherman said. “He started investing in the community. He built schools, a medical clinic, a community house, a bakery, a commissary, and housing for his workers. They started at kindergarten, which today houses the Richmond Hill History Museum.”
They also started the George Washington Carver School for African American students, named for Ford's friend and collaborator.
Clara Ford, deeply passionate about education and health, championed many of these efforts. She established home economics programs for local girls and supported community wellness initiatives. They brought in nurses and doctors to
treat malaria with Atabrine, a then-experimental drug that helped eradicate the disease in the region.
The End of One Era
Ford's influence in Bryan County lasted roughly 25 years. After his death in 1947, followed by Clara’s in 1950, their vast holdings were sold to International Paper. While the company didn’t continue Ford’s social programs, it did provide jobs and preserved much of the land until the late 20th century.
“They did not sell to developers until the late '70s and 1980s,” Sherman said. “By them holding on to that land and not selling a parcel here, a parcel there, it helped preserve the lands for a number of years.”
In 1958, the company donated the Fort McAllister portion of the land to the state.
With the passing of the Fords, the community was left to rebuild. Many job opportunities came to an end, and people went to work for International Paper or found other employment. The paper company owned their homes, although those who could afford it were able to buy them. Some people moved away, most stayed—the population, which reached 7,584 in 1950, dropped to 6,226 just 10 years later.
“The saving grace was that, for all of that time, he gave them a foundation,” Sherman said. “Especially for the children. They had a really good education system during those years. And the adults and children were taught job skills like woodworking and iron working and farming. Everyone was taught about good nutrition and health. I feel like those skills helped them to make better lives after the Fords.”
The Start of a New Era
In the decades following the Ford years, Bryan County settled into the comfortable role of bedroom community with nominal but steady growth over the years—until recently.
While growth began nearly a decade ago, it accelerated dramatically in the last four years. The game changer? Hyundai.
“This is a very exciting time for Bryan County,” said Ryan Purvis, chief executive officer of the Development Authority of Bryan County. “Eight to 10 years ago, we were considered a community that most people lived in and maybe even retired at, but the idea was that they were going to have to travel outside of Bryan County to work. We’ve seen a big change for the positive with jobs here. We've got some great industries, with the school system, with Fort Stewart, with our new
manufacturing jobs with Hyundai. But we also have had some really good foundational companies like Daniel Defense and ORAFOL and many other manufacturing companies that still have a foundation here.”
But what's often overlooked is how a single major project has ripple effects throughout the region. Hyundai brings in suppliers, service providers, and new families. It’s not just Bryan County benefiting—it's Effingham, Bulloch, Chatham, and beyond, Purvis said.
Why Bryan County?
Just as Henry Ford saw something special about the little coastal community, so did Hyundai.
“They chose the state of Georgia first, because we're a business-friendly state,” Purvis said. "There's a lot of things that Governor Kemp and others have done to really encourage high-quality companies to set up shop here.”
They also needed a large tract of land, which existed in Bryan County. The proximity to the ports, the interstate system, the railroad system, and the Atlanta airport also played an important role.
“Hyundai and LG wanted to be near great four-year colleges and technical colleges,” he said. “They wanted to be close to a strong workforce development region
that had the type of people that they could tap into. They wanted to be close to schools like Georgia Tech to capture some of the top-quality engineers, as well as Georgia Southern and Savannah State and Savannah College of Art and Design. Bryan County kind of checked the boxes for all of those different areas.”
The County Seat
Founded as a railroad town in the late 1880s, Pembroke quickly developed into a civic and commercial hub for Bryan County. Incorporated in 1905, the city’s identity is closely linked to its role as the county seat, which it obtained in 1937.
The county’s timber resources and the ability to ship them via the railroad spurred the early growth of Pembroke. Yet, over the decades, the city has maintained a modest yet stable population, rising from 467 in 1910 to just over 2,500 by 2020.
Today, with the Hyundai Plant just eight miles down the road, Pembroke is poised for a new wave of growth. But at the same time, it keeps the small-town character and historic charm at the heart of the city’s identity.
Growing Without Losing Soul
Growth, of course, doesn't come without challenges— it can be scary because of the unknown, he said. However, there has to be a balance between growth and maintaining a community's heritage, culture, and vibe.
“We believe that it is possible to grow without losing your soul,” Purvis said. “If someone has a child or a grandchild, the first question that I ask is, ‘Do you want opportunities for that child to exist in the county, to work, grow a family, have a career and retire in your community?’ More times than not, people say yes. And the reality is that's highly unlikely without a diverse industry base. Our community has many great industries.”
Bryan County has worked to create that possibility.
“Our public school system is now ranked sixth in the state, which we're incredibly proud of,” Purvis said. “Pair that with the new job opportunities being created, and we're building a future where a student can graduate high school and realistically envision building a full life right here—from their first job to retirement.”
He points to Pembroke as a powerful example of this change. In 2022, the average annual income there was
about $27,000. With Hyundai's arrival, the average salary for their jobs will be around $58,000—more than double.
That kind of economic shift is a generational gamechanger, and it will transform the lives of countless families in much the same way Ford changed lives 100 years ago.
Past Meets Future
“Ford was at the forefront of innovation,” Purvis said. “Fast forward, now you have the forefront of electric vehicle innovation here at the state-of-the-art facility at the Metaplant, which happens to be the largest single private project in the history of the state of Georgia. It's pretty amazing to see how the past is now kind of touching the future, all within Bryan County.”
Henry Ford was also a strong advocate for fair wages. He believed in raising average salaries to improve quality of life, and his efforts helped elevate income levels across the board.
Purvis said he believes Hyundai will bring the same kind of impact as Ford did a century ago—transforming not just the economic landscape, but the very soul of Bryan County for generations to come. ■
YOU VOTED FOR YOUR FAVORITES!
You told us the NEIGHBORHOOD and SCHOOLS you love in Bryan County, and we’re so proud to share the winners of the Discover Bryan 2025 poll with you!
BEST NEIGHBORHOOD IN BRYAN COUNTY
Voted #1
Buckhead East
Buckhead East is a vibrant, diverse community just outside the city limits of Richmond Hill. With amenities including a stunning zeroentry pool, neighborhood playground, and walking trails, our community offers something for everyone. Families here love being able to walk their children to the nearby McAllister Elementary School, take their pups to the Bark Park just down the road, and explore the numerous recreational opportunities and walking trails.
Honorable Mentions
City of Pembroke
Black Creek Golf Course
Woodland Trail
Dunham Marsh
Strathy Hall
Laurel Grove
BEST EARLY EDUCATION PROGRAM
Voted #1
Bryan Early Education Center (BEE Childcare)
Bryan Early Educational Childcare Program (BEE Childcare) is a division of the Bryan County School System. They care for and nurture young children of their working parents, providing a safe learning environment that, at its best, will promote life-long learning. Establishing positive relationships is the core of what they do.
Honorable Mentions
The Children’s Village Pitter Patter Daycare
The Ford Academy
McAllister Elementary
Lil’ Rascals
Richmond Hill
BEST PRIMARY SCHOOL
Voted #1
Bryan County Elementary
Bryan County Elementary is committed to excellence and success in all that they do. The faculty and staff are dedicated to rigorous educational tasks that challenge and motivate students while always being focused on continuous improvement.
Honorable Mentions
McAllister Elementary School
Richmond Hill Primary
George Washington Carver Elementary
BEST HIGH SCHOOL
Voted #1
Richmond Hill High School
Bryan County High School is committed to excellence and success in all that they do. The faculty and staff are dedicated to rigorous educational tasks that challenge and motivate students while always being focused on continuous improvement.
Honorable Mentions
Bryan County High School
Savannah Christian
BEST COLLEGE
Voted #1
Georgia Southern University
Far beyond ordinary, Georgia Southern has earned a reputation for academic excellence, unparalleled student support and active innovation. Here are just a few of the distinctions we’ve earned in the last year. Campuses in Statesboro and Savannah.
Honorable Mention
Savannah State University
EXTRA SPECIAL PEOPLE
Building Community and Inclusive Experiences for the Greater Savannah Area
Story by Claire Sandow
Extra Special People (ESP) launched in Savannah in January 2025, building a foundation for transformative experiences for people with disabilities. Through social gatherings like monthly family dinners, 360 club programming and summer camp, they provide a muchneeded space for community and recreation for people with disabilities and their families. ESP supports families in Chatham, Effingham, Bryan and surrounding counties, giving participants of all ages joyous and memorable experiences that celebrate them for who they are.
“ESP is so multifaceted. There’s more to it than just getting together once a month because there is the programming: the afterschool program, Java Joy and the camps,” says Becky Brown, member of the ESP Savannah Champions Board. “There’s no age limit and it’s for all abilities.”
Family dinners allow guests to meet others who live with disabilities. When families walk through the doors, they are greeted with cheers and unrelenting joy by volunteers who are equally excited to be there.
Volunteers also assist with serving food, helping to carry plates for parents and clearing the tables after the meal. Each dinner is sponsored by a corporate donor who provides a catered meal at no cost to families.
360 Club events provide a few hours of respite for caregivers while giving participants a safe place to play and socialize with themed activities. Each participant is paired with a buddy: a volunteer who helps them enjoy the event to the fullest. In the fall, ESP plans to expand club events to encompass wraparound programming with afternoon enrichment activities like music therapy, arts and crafts and recreation.
Java Joy offers employment opportunities for adults with disabilities through its mobile coffee cart that can be booked for special events. In the greater Savannah area, the cart has made stops at Great Oaks Bank, BankSouth, Omega Construction and the Georgia Ports Authority offices, serving up coffee, hot cocoa and hugs.
This summer, children ages 4 and up will be able to attend two weeks of summer day camp in Savannah. The program serves kids who might not otherwise be able to go to camp, accommodating anyone who may need medications, mobility equipment or other supports. Children ages 8 and up have the opportunity to attend Camp Hooray, a week of overnight camp at Camp Twin Lakes in Rutledge, Ga. In the future, ESP will build its own universally accessible camp in Jefferson, Ga. to serve its participants, built on land donated by a supporter.
Club programs and camps are available for participants at a fraction of the cost of the for-profit sector by utilizing volunteers from local schools and churches. Scholarships are available to eliminate financial barriers that might otherwise prevent participation.
The Road to Bringing ESP to Savannah
ESP was originally founded in Athens, Ga. in 1986 serving 21 families. It then expanded into Atlanta and Rome in 2020. After nurturing the programs in these three cities, it was time to expand.
Anna Salter and Becky Brown were an instrumental part of making this expansion happen. As speech-language pathologists and co-owners of Coastal Pediatric Therapies, they recognized the need that the Savannah area had for the organization. They also visited the ESP headquarters in Athens and were blown away by what they saw.
“It’s pure joy, all the time, and that’s what these kids need,” says Becky. “These individuals need to feel loved and welcomed and included and supported.”
After a feasibility study that collected quantitative data that took into account the population in need of services, proximity to universities, a committed business community and volunteer base, and the ability to sustain inclusive programming, Anna and Becky had to begin the fundraising process for startup capital.
“Anna and I are speech therapists, not fundraisers, so we didn’t have a lot of experience in that. We started out going to businesses, and saying, ‘This is what we want to do. We want this for Savannah. We need this.’ But we didn’t have anything to show them except a video,” says Becky. “It ended up initially
being private donors that got us started: someone who had a child with special needs or knew someone who did.”
By the end of 2024, they had crossed the fundraising finish line. A preview event in November 2024 drew more than 60 families and by spring 2025, nearly 150 families had joined the fold.
Building the Team
While Anna and Becky were fundraising, Monicah Starr was teaching high school special education in Richmond Hill and operating Inclusion Avenue, a venture she founded because she saw the need for job opportunities for her students after they graduated. She discovered the Java Joy
The search for an executive director was a longer process, but ultimately Jennifer Wilkins was hired for the role. She previously worked in the nonprofit realm with unhoused individuals, but her most recent role was director of operations for Chick-fil-A Midtown, where she promoted excellence in customer service.
“I always knew that I would want to go back into nonprofit work,” says Jennifer. “On New Year’s Eve, I was thinking about what I wanted this last portion of my time in work to be like. And I really felt like I wanted to do something that was more legacy related.”
After praying for direction, she found two messages in her LinkedIn inbox just after the new year, both asking if she would be willing to have a conversation about ESP Savannah and coming on board as executive director.
“It was a very tangible answer to prayer for me,” says Jennifer. “I didn’t even know what ESP was at the time. Within an hour of observing and going through watching different videos, I was just in love with everything that they had going on.”
Jennifer accepted the job just before launch week in January and brings the same level of joyful hospitality to ESP that she championed for customers at Chick-fil-A.
“‘I’m always looking at what we did, how well we did it, and how much better can we do it moving forward,” says Jennifer. “I can look at things we do and say, ‘Wow, that was amazing, but how can it be even more amazing the next time?’”
Community Support
ESP currently has three full-time staff members but receives additional support through the efforts of volunteers from local schools and colleges who are matched with buddies when they help at events. In other branches, volunteers have built relationships with their buddies and their families over time, changing everyone’s lives for the better.
Students from St. Vincent’s Academy, Savannah Country Day School, Medical College of Georgia and Savannah College of Art and Design have built a foundation for volunteers for ESP Savannah and churches like Compassion Christian and Southside Baptist have provided space for club events.
Twelve local businesses have come aboard as corporate sponsors, pledging sustaining support for the organization’s mission. And ESP now has a physical location for office space and programming inside of Southside Baptist Church.
“We don’t do this because we can. We do it because we get to,” says Jennifer. “I hope as we grow as a team and as a family, that our participants and their families feel all the time that they are somewhere where they know they are cared for.”
Businesses and places of worship can support ESP by booking a visit from the Java Joy cart, sponsoring a family dinner or signing up to be a corporate sponsor. Anyone interested in volunteering with ESP’s programs can sign up at espyouandme.org. All volunteers must pass a background check and complete a volunteer training.
Families who want to enroll in ESP programs can schedule a new family meeting, where they will meet with an ESP representative who will get to know them and answer any questions they may have. ■
BRYAN COUNTY
Bryan County Chamber held Ribbon Cutting for New Zaxby’s in RH
Melanie Williams Tyler and Cean Scott Molinari celebrate their 85th birthdays.
Bryan County Women’s Luncheon series
Bryan County schools receive check from Hyundai
9/5: Campground Fireside Fun! Fort McAllister State Park
9/6: Cars and Coffee 11460 Ford Ave, Richmond Hill
9/7: Crafting Under The Trees Fort McAllister State Park
9/12: BC Chamber POPCORN Pop In 4 Oracle Parkway, Ellabell
9/13: Girl Scouts Love State Parks–Volunteer Day Fort McAllister State Park
9/14: Paint in the Park Fort McAllister State Park
9/18: Business After Hours 55 Mustang Court, Richmond Hill
9/20: Civil War Rag Doll Making Fort McAllister State Park
10/4: Cars and Coffee 11460 Ford Ave, Richmond Hill
10/4: Annual Candle Lantern Tour Fort McAllister State Park
10/11: Guided Pumpkin Painting Fort McAllister State Park
10/23: Bryan Ball 500 W River St., Savannah
10/25: The Haunting of Savage Island Fort McAllister State Historic Park
10/29: Business Networking Breakfast 520 Cedar Street, Richmond Hill
INDEX OF ADVERTISERS
Merri Lynn Pearson
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