Compass For Hope
A compass doesn't tell you where you've been — it helps you find your way forward.
For the volunteers at Compass for Hope, an
Augusta-based organization serving individuals experiencing homelessness, that
sense of direction is at the heart of their work. Through consistent outreach
and support, they meet people where they are to
offer practical resources, help restore dignity, and most importantly, bring
hope to those working to regain their footing.
Founded in August 2018, Compass for Hope began
with a simple but powerful moment. Mike Garrison, Executive Director and
Founder, was inspired by his 12-year-old daughter's desire to volunteer at a
soup kitchen. Too young to serve, the idea to create something new was planted.
"What stood out to me was the absence of basic
services that can be life-changing for people experiencing homelessness," said
Mike. "We started with a grill and a trailer to feed the hungry in Augusta.
Compass for Hope has grown organically ever since."
In 2021, Mike raised $50,000 for mobile shower
units through perseverance and community support. With this money, he bought
his first trailer. However, the need outpaced capacity. As demand grew, Compass
for Hope expanded to multiple trailers of showers and added laundry units.
The organization also repairs bicycles, a
critical form of transportation for many experiencing homelessness, and
partners with local service providers. Medical students from the Medical
College of Georgia conduct monthly wellness checks and vaccinations, while a
network of verified resources helps connect individuals to housing, utilities,
and other support services.
Beyond meeting basic needs, Compass for Hope
focuses on building trust over time with people who are homeless. Clean clothes
and showers help people feel human again, whether they're attending a job
interview, applying for housing, or simply facing another day.
Compass for Hope operates with no paid staff, and 100% of donations go directly to services. Volunteers use personal vehicles to pull the trailers, and Mike hopes to purchase vehicles for Compass for Hope's exclusive use. While the future may evolve, the mission remains the same: to help people who feel lost find direction, one relationship at a time.
"Hope is essential to changing your life. We
are here to offer a helping hand up when people are ready to make a change,"
said Mike. "Every ounce of effort we spend is worthwhile if we can make a
difference in even just one person's life."
Visit Compass for Hope's website
to learn more.
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About Cingo: The name Cingo means to surround and secure, conveying the company's commitment to home protection. The company has been protecting families in the Southeast since 1974. It provides home protection services throughout Georgia and South Carolina, including Atlanta, Augusta, Charleston, Douglas, Dublin, Milledgeville, Savannah, Vidalia, Waycross and all points in between. Cingo was named a Best Place to Work in Georgia by Georgia Trend Magazine and listed as a National Best & Brightest Company to Work For. Learn more at www.cingohome.com.