The ladies of S . W . A . T were featured on WALB ’ s public affairs program “ Dialogue ,” with Karla Heath-Sands . From left are Gloria Hayes , Jennifer Blakely , Karla Heath-Sands , Catherine Shannon and Tonita Scott .
turned out to attend the meeting , and together they decided their focus would be to “ promote togetherness among the adults and youth of our community , with love for our fellow man being the common denominator .” Catherine Shannon , S . W . A . T . youth coordinator , further explained how the significance of the group ’ s main emphasis – love and support of community and the individuals encountered in daily life – led to the members forming a true sisterhood . She also pointed out that one of the group ’ s original members , Sharon Evans , suggested the acronym S . W . A . T – a designation that further illustrated the commitment and discipline required by members .
“ S . W . A . T . is not only about working for the community , it ’ s about working for each and every one of the members . We ’ re there to support one another .
That ’ s really what love is all about – the support that God allows us to give each other ,” she said .
Through various methods of volunteerism and community service , the ladies of S . W . A . T . have had a significant impact on a variety of local and neighborhood organizations , working with specific associations like the Boys and Girls Club and The Hope House Women ’ s Clinic . Fundraising proceeds are donated to help various families and individuals in need , Scott explained .
“ S . W . A . T . is known in the community . We look for people in need ,” she said .
Over the years , the organization has sponsored several community events , such as a parade in celebration of Dr . Martin Luther King Jr ., a Youth Summit Valentine Ball , a Black History Month celebration and numerous youth conferences , to include an annual youth Bible trivia competition .
Both Scott and Shannon noted the significance of the organization ’ s annual awards ceremony , a formal black-tie event held to recognize local residents for work or achievements that support the community as a whole . The event recognizes individuals in such categories as Visionary , Faith , Courage , Gate Keeper , Good Samaritan , Humility , Bible Scholar , Fisher of Men and Doer of the Word . Awardees are typically people who have worked tirelessly to support the community , and rarely look for or expect recognition and accolades in return , the women said .
“ You ’ ve heard of the unsung hero , the people who go unnoticed in the community -- our focus is on the ones who don ’ t even know they ’ re not being noticed . There are a lot of people
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