Beyond Marketing: A Global Cause Right In Our Backyard

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On this blog, we try not to talk about ourselves, but today we’re making an exception for a cause that we are excited to stand beside. Or, more accurately, that we’re excited to stand beside us: The Clarkston House Project has moved right next to MLT’s office buildings. This project is aimed at meeting the unique needs of this neighborhood in a practical way. Here’s what’s going on and why you should care…

All people are human. The Clarkston House Project - www.allpeoplearehuman.comMLT Creative, has been located just a few miles east of Atlanta in the small town of Clarkston since 1984. The agency grew by purchasing and renovating a row of vintage 1930’s homes. MLT invested a small fortune to update and remodel the properties. One of the most notable buildings on MLT Creative’s property was the “Idea Launch Lab” where many client collaborations, parties, fundraisers and events took place. The building hosted speakers like Mark Schaefer, Jay Baer and Michael Gass. The building played a special role in a special town: Clarkston.

Clarkston, Ga is possibly the most diverse square mile in the U.S. In the 90’s refugee resettlement agencies identified Clarkston as a good destination for refugees. Today, Clarkston’s website boasts 60 languages spoken in the 1.4 square mile territory. 31.8% of the population is foreign born. Clarkston’s diversity has earned Clarkston the name “The Ellis Island of the South.”

Moving to another country with a different language, culture and economy is extremely challenging. While the federal and state government do offer some help to refugees, a number of organizations have come to Clarkston to help these refugees transition to life in America.

One of these organizations, the Clarkston House Project, recently began renting MLT’s “Idea Launch Lab” with the intention to buy. The project is an effort by a family of churches throughout Georgia to help bring medical care, job training and community development to Clarkston’s refugee population. Take a look at this video to see what they’re about:

The Clarkston House Project is trying to raise $250,000 in two weeks to buy MLT’s old building. MLT has pledged to match at least $2500 of the money they raise, and they have already raised $145,000. If you are able and inclined, feel free to donate to the cause.

Clarkston House Project isn’t the only organization helping refugees create a better life in their new home. Some other great organizations to partner with in Clarkston are:

Friends of Refugees, World Relief and International Rescue Committee are all integral forces in the community offering a range of services from English classes, community gardens, summer camps for refugee children, job training and much more.