Author: ATL Direct Staff
On March 20, the City of Atlanta marked a historic milestone with the ribbon-cutting of Red’s Farm Preserve—the city’s first official urban farm. Founded in the 1990s by Brian “Farmer Red” Harrison, the farm began as a personal project to reclaim overgrown lots in Ormewood Park and transform them into a vibrant, green community hub. Today, that same space is being preserved and expanded as a city-supported project that blends urban agriculture, environmental education, and neighborhood connection. “This farm started with a vision for better land use, better food access, and a stronger sense of community,” said a city official.…
First launched while Mayor Andre Dickens was a city councilmember, the program has grown into a cornerstone initiative for youth engagement, violence prevention, and community connection. It now plays a critical role in Atlanta’s broader public safety and youth development strategy. “This program has become a gathering place for the whole community—mothers, sons, kids, grandparents—all enjoying the game together,” said Mayor Dickens at a recent championship event. “Midnight Basketball isn’t just about the sport—it’s about the connection it builds across generations.” A Safe Space to Thrive Since its early days, Midnight Basketball has shown real impact, particularly in neighborhoods where…
Camp Best Friends, one of Atlanta’s longest-running and most cherished summer programs, is back for its 44th season, offering a citywide experience filled with connection, creativity, and community. Running from June 9 to July 25, this year’s camp introduces a playful “Under the Sea” theme that will guide activities across multiple locations and age groups—from preschoolers to older adults. More Than a Camp—A Summer of Opportunity Operated by the City of Atlanta Department of Parks and Recreation, Camp Best Friends provides a safe, structured environment from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, giving working families peace of mind while offering…
In the heart of Midtown, a new kind of creative space is changing the way stories are told—by and for the culture of Atlanta. Collab Studio ATL, a 7,500-square-foot members-only production facility, is redefining content creation in the South. What started as CollabCrib—an innovative creator house—is now one of the most influential content studios in the country, recognized by Hulu, Billboard, Meta, and TikTok. This is not just a workspace. It’s a cultural incubator where over 250 diverse creators generate more than 300 million monthly impressions, powering campaigns that go viral and influence what the world sees, wears, buys, and…
The Mayor’s Office of Sustainability and Resilience (MOSR) is excited to announce a full month of events and activations to celebrate Earth Month this April. The MOSR office focuses on resilience, sustainability, and climate action and works to lead the charge in combating three primary climate challenges facing Atlanta – extreme heat, drought, and flooding. Throughout April, the MOSR will host a series of educational and community-focused events, with four major initiatives: Race to Resilience Kickoff (April 1) – City of Atlanta announces its official pledge to join the “Race to Resilience”, a UN-backed global campaign aiming to catalyze a shift…
In just a short time, Atlanta has achieved milestones that are reshaping the city’s future—and at the heart of it all is a commitment to equity, growth, and sustainability. Mayor Andre Dickens recently shared updates on major strides Atlanta has made in public safety, housing, infrastructure, and financial health, painting a picture of a city on the move—with opportunity for all. “We have lowered violent crime, created job opportunities for our youth, and offered positive alternatives to keep our communities strong,” Dickens said. A Safer, Stronger Atlanta Public safety remains a top priority for the city, and recent initiatives have…
At just 14 years old, Elma Davis stepped out of a car with two black eyes and a gash on her face. It was the day of a fashion show, and she sat silently in a makeup chair while adults covered her wounds with concealer. No one asked what had happened. No one offered help. That silence became a defining moment. “I remember the excruciating pain of makeup being put into an open cut,” Davis said. “But what hurt more was that no one even cared to ask.” Now, Davis is turning that pain into purpose. From Survivor to Advocate…
Even in a busy city like Atlanta, there are moments when people become invisible—particularly those experiencing homelessness. As 61-year-old Chuck, who has lived unsheltered for three years, explained, We’ve lost people out here. Nobody cares. If we were dogs, they’d find us a place to stay. ChuCK But in Atlanta, the tide is turning. On a recent winter night, more than 220 volunteers and 50 organizations gathered to participate in the Point-in-Time Count, an annual census of the city’s unhoused population. Among them was Mayor Andre Dickens, who has been part of the count for nearly a decade—not for photo…
The Atlanta Police Department has addressed inaccuracies circulating on social media regarding the death of Kenneth Bailey. According to their official statement, no Atlanta police officers discharged their firearms or used force against Mr. Bailey. The department acknowledges the public’s concern but emphasizes the importance of accurate information. The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office has released an official report on the case, ensuring transparency in the investigative process.
Atlanta stands out as one of the best cities to live in, offering a unique blend of Southern charm, urban sophistication, and endless opportunity. With a booming job market driven by Fortune 500 companies, a thriving arts and entertainment scene, and world-class dining, Atlanta provides an exceptional quality of life. Its diverse neighborhoods cater to every lifestyle, from bustling city living in Midtown to the tree-lined suburbs of Decatur. The city’s rich cultural heritage, top-tier universities, and vibrant social scene make it a magnet for young professionals, families, and retirees alike. Plus, with its mild climate and abundant green spaces,…