The One Sumter Economic Development Foundation, in partnership with the Georgia Power Company and the Greater Valdosta United Way, announces the premiere screening of “The Reformation Project on Monday, June 19, at 5:30pm at Whole Truth International Ministries. A documentary produced by Fusion Creative Marketing, the documentary addresses issues around social and criminal justice within the context of Sumter County and Lowndes County as two communities taking an active and bold role in the discussion of these complex dynamics at the local level. The film will be followed by an important Victims Panel Discussion moderated by Americus Mayor Lee Kinnamon. 

As a follow-up to the ongoing work surrounding the findings and recommendations from the February Gun Violence & Community Solutions Summit, “The Reformation Project” brings together compelling interviews with crime victims, law enforcement officials, mental health workers, and others to create a common understanding of the root causes and effects that impact criminal justice reform. 

Carlyle Walton, CEO of Phoebe Sumter Medical Center, shares his support of the event and its importance, “Communities that avoid facing thorny and controversial issues are doomed to lose their sense of purpose and unity. Communities that live by Dr. King’s words that “the ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at time of challenge and controversy” are destined to thrive and soar to excellence. One Sumter’s commitment to be the catalyst and community convener to address gun violence and develop actionable community-based solutions, is one of the many reasons I am honored to call Sumter County and Americus my home.”

With the continued support of Sumter County Sheriff Eric Bryant and Americus Police Chief Mark Scott, One Sumter has convened a dynamic group of some 40 stakeholders, business and community leaders to take on projects and programs that speak to the feedback heard during the Summit—specifically, the need to support our youth, provide them with meaningful opportunities, and accessible alternatives to progress within the workforce as opposed to potentially climbing the ladder within a gang or other criminal activity-based organization. One of the early findings from the Summit indicates that youth are often looking for leadership and mentorship. One Sumter hopes that by offering another take on the discussion by the screening of “The Reformation Project,” other leaders in the community will head that call and respond positively.

Through the One Sumter Youth First effort, early work has already continued around providing summer camps and programs for youth, employment for young people, financial literacy and education workshops sponsored by Citizens Bank of Americus, and early plans to host a Sumter County Teen Maze next spring.  By bringing educators, law enforcement, healthcare workers, elected officials, faith leaders and the private sector together, meaningful change can begin to occur.

“The Reformation Project” offers insight into the very dynamics discussed during the Summit in a way that brings awareness and understanding to viewers—blame is not placed, so much as ownership of accountability and the opportunity to do and be more for all sectors of our community is shared in a way that will resonate for those inclined to listen to the conversation.

The film premiere is open to the public and refreshments will be provided, as we work collaboratively to tackle issues of violent crime in our community.

One Sumter represents pledged contributions of over 120 private business and industry partners, public sector entities and individual donations from residents throughout Sumter County.  For more information about One Sumter and its initiatives, or to contribute through volunteerism or financially, please contact Executive Director Alicia Ledbetter at (229) 924-3042 or at [email protected]. You may also visit One Sumter online at www.onesumter.org and www.facebook.com/OneSumter.