Executive producers of the hit TV series “The Chosen” discuss the inspiration behind retelling the life of Jesus Christ.

Everyone knows that the Salvation Army is one of the largest non-profits in the world, with its main mission to offer life-sustaining services to families who need an extra hand. Among its charitable services are arranging emergency housing, rent and utility assistance; providing groceries; and disaster response.

But the giving comes at a price. That’s why its various divisions hold fundraising events. 

Last month, the Salvation Army of Gwinnett County hosted its 9th Annual Doing the Most Good Luncheon at the newly renovated Crowne Plaza Atlanta in Norcross. This year marks 158 years that the Salvation Army has been serving the needs of humanity, and 36 years in Gwinnett County.

As its major fundraiser, the luncheon supports year-round services such as housing, utilities, groceries and emergency disaster services to local families in Gwinnett County. In addition, local youth are served all year long through a free year-round School for Performing Arts, a summer camp and by providing school supplies to those who need them.

“The Doing the Most Good Luncheon is our biggest fundraiser of the year,” said Captain Paul Ryerson, corps officer of The Salvation Army of Gwinnett County. “The funds raised through this event each year allow us to serve as a resource for the community and bring hope to our neighbors in need.”

In 2022, The Salvation Army of Gwinnett County provided 60,843 pounds of food to 1,018 households and 2,717 nights of shelter; 267 households received rent / mortgage and utility assistance. Additionally, 566 families and 1,464 children received gifts at Christmas through the Angel Tree program, according to data shared during the luncheon.

“The Chosen” connection to Salvation Army

The afternoon included a discussion about the TV series “The Chosen” with Chad Gundersen and Chris Juen, the show’s executive producers, as well a live and silent auction and a seated lunch. One of the top items in the live auction was an opportunity to visit the show’s location, a Salvation Army camp in Texas that turned out to the be the perfect spot for filming.

“The Chosen” is the first-ever multi-season series about the life of Jesus Christ. The creators shared that it would have a total of seven seasons, with the fourth season beginning production in the spring. The free show is streaming on Angel Studios’ platforms with tens of millions of viewers.

Season 1 was the No. 1 highest crowd-funded entertainment project of all-time, raising $10 million from over 19,000 people. It raised over $40 million in production costs for Seasons 2 and 3 via the fan-supported model.

To date, “The Chosen” has been translated into 50 languages and offers viewers a new perspective of the life of Jesus. The story it tells dovetails perfectly with the mission and message of the Salvation Army.

“I have the privilege of putting this uniform on every single day, overseeing the operations of the local response here in our beautiful county. Our mission is simple — to be the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs, in His name without discrimination,” said Ryerson. 

He thanked the attendees and contributors for believing in the Salvation Army’s mission, and thanked the staff and volunteers for keeping it alive.

“Reaching these milestones doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when an organization stays focused on its purpose and that happens when a community captures the vision and pours themselves into the cause,” said Ryerson.

“We are in the business of giving,” he added. “The hope that we offer is not only for the physical needs of the body, but it’s also for the needs of the soul.” 

The Peachtree Corners Business Association (PCBA) March Business After Hours Event was action packed with opportunities for business networking at Anderby Brewing. Everyone enjoyed new cocktails and specialty beers while enjoying dinner from Latin Fresh as well as axe throwing from Moving Target ATL NE.

The PCBA also presented a check of $500 to Furkids in support of their efforts to care for animals while helping to find their forever homes.

“The PCBA is proud to donate a check for $500 to Samantha Shelton, CEO of Furkids in support of their efforts to rescue homeless animals, provide them with the best medical care and nurturing environment while working to find them a forever home,” said Lisa Proctor, PCBA President.

“Our Outreach Committee and Board are impressed with Furkids’ commitment to provide care and restoration for these special animals at their no kill shelters. With the PCBA’s continuous commitment to supporting our community in a meaningful way, we are excited to be a small part of their efforts,” she added.

Headquartered in Georgia, Furkids is a nonprofit charitable organization that operates the largest cage-free, no-kill shelter in the Southeast for rescued cats, and Sadie’s Place, a no-kill shelter for dogs. Furkids also operates one of the only facilities in the Southeast dedicated to the care of FIV positive cats.

Furkids has rescued and altered more than 55,000 animals since its founding in 2002. Approximately 1,000 animals are in the Furkids program today, in the Furkids shelters, 10 PetSmart and Petco adoption centers, and more than 400 foster homes in the Atlanta area.

Funds for the PCBA Community Outreach program are raised throughout the year from PCBA membership, sponsorship and the annual charity event. Donations and scholarships are awarded at monthly events so members can learn more about these organizations.

The United Peachtree Corners Civic Association (UPCCA) is again offering a Community Service Scholarship for high school seniors residing in Peachtree Corners. The 2023 scholarships will be awarded to students who have made the commitment to volunteer outside of school hours during their high school years.

New for 2023

Up to two UPCCA scholarships may be awarded.

The Debbie Mason Member Scholarship is a $1,000 scholarship. To qualify, the student or their HOA / neighborhood MUST be a member of UPCCA in good standing for the 2023 calendar year with membership fees paid on or before April 15, 2023.

If the applicant’s HOA/ neighborhood is NOT a current paid member of UPCCA, they can contact their HOA, neighborhood board or president and encourage them to become a 2023 member.

Information for becoming a member of UPCCA can be found at upcca.org, or by contacting UPCCA president Matt Lombardi at 770-548-2989.

The Debbie Mason Community Scholarship is a $1,000 community scholarship in honor of Debbie Mason’s commitment to serve her community. Students do not need to be a UPCCA member to qualify for this scholarship.

How to apply

High school seniors who meet the qualifications should:

1. Complete the Online Scholarship Application

The online application includes areas to upload documentation for the essay and service activities.

2. Write and/or video a 300-word essay about the community service work they have done that has had the greatest influence on them and why.

3. Include a Community Service listing of all activities they participated in while in high school.

Winners will be chosen strictly on their participation in community service.