Resilient Georgia Expands Statewide Network with Launch of Resilient West Central Georgia

December 2025

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Resilient Georgia proudly announces the launch of Resilient West Central Georgia, a new regional coalition working to advance trauma-informed care and promote mental and behavioral health across Butts, Henry, Fayette, Lamar, Pike, Rockdale, Spalding, and Upson counties.

Resilient West Central Georgia joins a growing statewide network of regional coalitions working together to build a more resilient Georgia, one that prioritizes the well-being of children and families through cross-sector collaboration, education, and prevention strategies.

The leadership of Resilient West Central Georgia includes:

• Dr. Katie New, Director, Bloom University

• Regina Abbott, Executive Director, Spalding County Family Connection

• Mike Powell, Executive Director, Pike County Family Connection

• Dawn Oparah, Executive Director, Fayette County Family Connection

• Tara Hannon, Director of Programs, Fayette County Family Connection

  
  

“Resilient West Central Georgia brings together passionate leaders who are deeply committed to creating stronger, more connected communities,” said Emily Anne Vall, Ph.D., Executive Director of Resilient Georgia, a statewide network of 19 regional coalitions across 146 counties that are deeply engaged in their work to reduce mental health stigma and promote resilience in children and their families.

“This new coalition’s collaborative efforts will help ensure families across this region have expanded access to the support, education, and resources they need to thrive,” said Audrey Idaikkadar, Director of Regional Programs at Resilient Georgia. 

The regional coalition will work to expand trauma-informed and resilience-building initiatives in schools, healthcare, and community settings. By uniting local organizations, leaders, and advocates, Resilient West Central Georgia will help strengthen the behavioral health infrastructure for children and families, particularly in areas where access to care remains a challenge. At its core, the effort aims to equip community members with the knowledge and skills to support one another, fostering a culture of care where everyone is empowered to be a good neighbor.

“Each of us has seen firsthand the power of collaboration to change lives,” said Dr. Katie New,  Director of Bloom University, a trauma-informed training program of Bloom Foster Care. “Through Resilient West Central Georgia, we’re able to coordinate resources, share knowledge, and build a framework for lasting resilience across our communities.”

Resilient West Central Georgia joins 19 regional coalitions across the state, each aligned with Resilient Georgia’s mission to integrate trauma-informed care and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) awareness into every Georgia community by 2030.

To learn more about Resilient Georgia’s statewide coalitions, visit coalitions.resilientga.org.