SR317: SR317 Brightside Forever Foundation; recognize

This is a ceremonial resolution passed by the Georgia Senate rather than a law that changes anyone's rights or duties. It recognizes the Brightside Forever Foundation, a nonprofit based in Buford, for its efforts to support people with special needs. The resolution describes the foundation's work, including running Brightside Cafe, a coffee shop that employs people with special needs and models inclusive hiring for other employers, providing financial support so people with special needs can attend specialized college programs, and offering scholarships to students studying special education. The Senate directs its Secretary to prepare a copy of the resolution for the foundation, but the text creates no new funding, requirements, or legal changes.

• Formally states the Senate's recognition and commendation of the Brightside Forever Foundation for its work supporting individuals with special needs.
• Directs the Secretary of the Senate to prepare and provide a copy of the resolution to the foundation.
• Creates no new law, funding, requirement, or penalty; it is a ceremonial statement rather than a legal mandate.

The Brightside Forever Foundation and its affiliated Brightside Cafe in Buford are the direct subjects of this recognition. The resolution has no binding effect on other individuals, businesses, or government agencies.

Because this is a ceremonial resolution, it does not change Georgia law, create funding, or impose any obligations. Its main effect is a formal, public statement of appreciation from the Senate that the foundation can use for recognition purposes.

• The whereas clauses describe the foundation's mission of empowering individuals with special needs through advocacy, education, and job creation at Brightside Cafe.
• The first resolving clause states the Senate's recognition and commendation of the foundation's contributions.
• The second resolving clause directs the Secretary of the Senate to make a copy of the resolution available to the foundation.

1. 2025-03-03Senate Read and Adopted (Senate)
2. 2025-02-28Senate Hopper (Senate)

• Clint Dixon (R, SD-045)Primary sponsor
• Drew Echols (R, SD-049)
• Frank Ginn (R, SD-047)
• Jason Anavitarte (R, SD-031)
• Steve Gooch (R, SD-051)
• Russ Goodman (R, SD-008)

• special needs advocacy
• nonprofit recognition
• disability employment
• Georgia Senate resolution