On Wednesday April 9, 2025, Macon Violence Prevention, Community Foundation of Central Georgia, Bibb County School Superintendent Dr. Dan Sims, the Communities in Schools of Central Georgia (CIS), and Mama Hawk Draws will unveil a new mural at SOAR Academy. The reveal will begin at 11:15 a.m. and will be live streamed on www.Facebook.com/MaconBibbCounty.

The mural is part of a project made possible through Macon Violence Prevention (MVP). About 10 students worked with Erin Hawkins, Mama Hawk Draws founder and artist, to come up with a design that would be uplifting and fit the mission of the CIS classroom. Students came up with different designs, developed a business plan, and then presented their pitches to Collinsworth, CAO Amanda Irons, and Empowerment Coach Vashun Tobler. The team picked one, and the students got to work.

“They have already shown so much growth throughout this project," said Hawkins. "Watching each of them take the lead in different aspects has been incredibly rewarding. By the time we finish the mural, these students will have gained more than artistic skills—they will have learned the power of working together toward a common goal.”

CIS received a $30,000 grant from MVP to enhance academic success by providing holistic support that empowers students to envision and pursue promising futures. This project was funded with part of that grant money. CIS has also worked with U Create Macon to teach students bike maintenance skills and how to use a bike safely.