It’s been called the Ornament of Hope for more than 30 years, but this year that word “hope” takes on added meaning.
Unveiled on Oct. 18, the ornament depicting the city’s skyline is the largest fundraiser for Easterseals East Georgia.
In previous years, the ornament has highlighted a historic site such as Sacred Heart Cultural Center, the Ezekiel Harris House and the Boyhood Home of Woodrow Wilson. This year, committee members chose something different, but their choice became even more fitting in light of the ravaging effects of Hurricane Helene on the area’s landscape.
“We think that this is going to be a wonderful ornament this year. As we were getting ready for this event, we were talking to everybody in the room about what they experienced with the hurricane and all the devastation and even after weeks and weeks, you still go up and down the streets and still see the evidence of what happened to Augusta. We’re excited,” said Sheri Coleman, the organization’s chief executive officer at the Oct. 18 unveiling.
Augusta-Richmond County Commissioner Stacy Pulliam focused on the word “hope” as she reflected on the past few weeks.
“As I drove through the city helping those in need, my heart was overwhelmed with joy watching us come together with hope — a hope and determination to rebuild in spite of what was lost. It’s so fitting that the 2024 Ornament of Hope is going to be revealed on today. Easterseals of East Georgia, your organization stands on a foundation of hope,” she said.
The ornament is $25 and will be available at the Easterseals office, 1930 Highland Ave.; Augusta and Co., 1010 Broad St.; and online. As other locations are confirmed, they will be placed on social media and the website.
Easterseals East Georgia helps people in 33 Georgia counties of “working age with disabilities, special needs and other barriers to employment find the highest-quality services designed to meet their individual needs,” according to the website.
Charmain Z. Brackett, the publisher of Augusta Good News and Inspiring: Women of Augusta, has covered Augusta’s news for more than 35 years and is a Georgia Press Association award winner. Reach her at charmain@augustagoodnews.com. Sign up for the newsletter here.
