08/27/2026
We are truly humbled, honored, and incredibly grateful for these kind words from Mr. Steven Henry, the chairman of the Catoosa County Board of Commissioners and for the recognition of Catoosa Citizens for Literacy and the Shirley Smith Adult Learning Center.
It means so much to us to have the work of our volunteers, students, supporters, and staff recognized in such a thoughtful way. Every day, we have the privilege of witnessing people make the courageous decision to continue their education, learn to read, earn their GED, develop new skills, and pursue a better future for themselves and their families. Those moments are what make everything we do worthwhile.
And yes!!! Shirley Smith deserves every bit of this recognition.
For so many years, Shirley has believed in the power of education and, perhaps even more importantly, in the potential of every person who walks through our doors. Her vision, determination, compassion, and unwavering belief that “It’s never too late” have changed countless lives and helped build a stronger Catoosa County.
Shirley also recognizes that walking through the door is often the most difficult step. Taking that first step toward asking for help, returning to school, learning to read, or pursuing a GED can take tremendous courage. That is why creating a welcoming place where people feel supported, respected, and encouraged is so important to her.
And if you know Shirley, you know she has a favorite word: “collaborate.”
She firmly believes that Catoosa County is a plethora of organizations filled with people who know how to collaborate, work together, and get it done. She understands that when organizations come together, share resources, open doors, and believe in the people they serve, incredible things can happen.
We are incredibly grateful for everyone who has supported this mission along the way.
Thank you, Steven Henry for taking the time to shine a light on the work happening here. Your recognition means more than you know, and we are honored to be a part of this wonderful community.
It truly is never too late to change your story, pursue your dreams, and build a brighter future.
With sincere gratitude,
Catoosa Citizens for Literacy
Good Thursday morning, Catoosa County!
We are getting closer to sliding into what I hope will be a terrific weekend!
Recently, I started a series on my page called Scenic Catoosa County, highlighting some of the many beautiful and special places throughout this wonderful county we are blessed to call home.
Today's picture highlights a building where beautiful things truly happen—and an amazing person whose dream and vision have helped countless others pursue dreams of their own.
Catoosa Citizens for Literacy at the Shirley Smith Adult Learning Center, located at 36 Muscogee Trail on the Benton Place campus, has been helping adults of all ages build brighter futures for years.
The center offers tuition-free academic and workforce development programs, including GED classes that help adults prepare for and take the GED exam. Through these programs, many people in our community have been given the opportunity to continue their education and open doors to a brighter future.
The center also provides resources for adults who want to learn to read or strengthen their foundational reading skills. In addition, there are opportunities for instructional training in areas such as technical and digital literacy.
Through the dedication of its outstanding staff and volunteers, Catoosa Citizens for Literacy has helped countless individuals gain new skills, pursue better job opportunities, find higher-paying employment, and build a more prosperous future for themselves and their families.
At the heart of this wonderful organization is Shirley Smith and the vision she has carried for so many years—to help people gain the reading, writing, educational, and workforce skills they need to become productive members of our community and meet the needs of local employers.
Shirley often says:
“It's never too late.”
Those four simple words have inspired so many adults to pick up their education where they left off and take another step toward achieving their goals. If you, or someone you know are in need of their services, contact Catoosa Citizens for Literacy at 706-965-6155.
It is truly a pleasure to work with Shirley and to see firsthand the impact she continues to make on our community—one life at a time.
We are blessed to have people like Shirley Smith and organizations like the Catoosa Citizens for Literacy at the Shirley Smith Adult Learning Center right here in Catoosa County.
Have a wonderful Thursday, Catoosa County!
