This year’s Annual Council Service Project, led by the Diocesan Youth Commission, is a collaboration with El Refugio, offering prayer, supplies, and tangible care to families impacted by detention, poverty, and displacement. All donated supplies will be assembled into care bags immediately following the adjournment of our 119th Annual Council (Nov 7-8) at the Cathedral of St. Philip.
why this project?
Across Georgia, immigrant families are facing isolation, displacement, and systemic barriers that are designed to make them feel invisible. El Refugio is a nonprofit organization that accompanies immigrants at Stewart Detention Center and their loved ones through hospitality, visitation, support, and advocacy.
Through our partnership with El Refugio‘s hospitality house (for families visiting loved ones at Stewart Detention Center), we are not just offering supplies. We are writing notes, providing activity kits for kids, praying through stories, and giving support that says you are not forgotten. This project is about bearing witness to the humanity of people who are suffering.
how can you help?
Whether you’re an individual, a parish, or a ministry team, your support makes a difference. You can help by donating essential supplies to the hospitality house, organizing a parish gift card drive, or becoming a long-term partner with El Refugio in this work. Every act of presence, generosity, or service pushes back against isolation and reminds people that they are seen and loved.
Donate Individually
Purchase items from our Amazon Wish List, donate money directly, or bring/send supplies to Annual Council. Every donation helps support families with dignity.
Donate as a Parish or Ministry
Organize a supply drive, write cards as a group, or encourage people at your parish to donate directly. Click here for everything you’ll need to mobilize your parish or ministry.
Become a Partner
Want to build an ongoing relationship with El Refugio? Let us connect you with next steps for volunteering, advocacy, or accompaniment. Email Holle Tubbs for more details.
What is the Annual Council Service Project?
The Annual Council Service Project (ACSP) is a hands-on, youth-led opportunity for delegates at Diocesan Council to live out their faith through acts of service, justice, and compassion. It begins immediately after Council adjourns and is open to youth, clergy, and lay leaders alike.
What will donated funds be used to do?
All funds donated to this project will be used to provide gift cards to Kroger, Publix, Shell, etc. El Refugio will provide these to families of detainees who need help with gas (Lumpkin is significantly out of the way for most people) or food.
How will our donations be used for a service project?
Gift cards and kids’ activity kits will be packaged in brown bags with encouraging notes for families of detainees.
What is the Diocesan Youth Commission?
The Diocesan Youth Commission (DYC) is a leadership team of high school students from across the Episcopal Diocese of Atlanta. Members help plan retreats, lead diocesan events, and engage in service initiatives that reflect the Gospel and our Baptismal Covenant.
How does the Service Project get chosen?
Each year, the DYC discerns a service project that aligns with the Gospel, responds to real community needs, and invites Council participants into deeper reflection and action. The youth are guided by adult mentors and diocesan staff, and often partner with trusted nonprofits doing meaningful, long-term work.
What if I have an idea for a future service project?
We’d love to hear it! The DYC regularly reviews new ideas and community needs. You can share your idea by contacting EYCDIOATL staff. We welcome partnerships that prioritize dignity, equity, and shared leadership while providing a hands-on service opportunity for Annual Council delegates.
Is this year’s service project trying to be political?
No. This project is about presence and service, not partisanship. While immigration and detention are deeply affected by policy, our focus is not on debating politics. We believe the Gospel calls us to love our neighbor, visit the imprisoned, and support the stranger, and that’s what we’re doing.
How can I get involved with the Diocesan Youth Commission?
If you’re a high school student in the Diocese of Atlanta who wants to grow as a leader and deepen your faith, the DYC might be for you! Applications open each spring. Talk to your youth leader or priest (or email our Missioner) to learn more.
Date: Saturday, November 8, immediately following Council adjournment
Location: The Cathedral of St. Philip
Hosted by: Diocesan Youth Commission
Partner Organization: El Refugio
Our service project will feature three stations:
1. Via Crucis
A prayerful, reflective walk through the final steps of Jesus before his crucifixion. Delegates may pray alone or with others.
2. Letter & Note-Writing Station
Write holiday cards or notes of encouragement to families staying at El Refugio’s hospitality house. Materials and prompts will be provided.
3. Supply Station
Make brown bags containing donated gift cards (for gas and groceries) and other supplies for families hosted weekly by El Refugio.