Atlanta Hawks and CareSource Georgia Host Career Readiness with a S.M.I.L.E. Workshop to Empower Atlanta Community

ATLANTA — Earlier today, the Atlanta Hawks and CareSource Georgia continued their commitment to community impact by hosting their signature Career Readiness with a S.M.I.L.E. Workshop at City of Refuge on Atlanta’s westside. The free event, a part of the CareSource Life Services program, aimed to equip local residents with essential tools to achieve personal and professional success.

City of Refuge, a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming the lives of individuals and families in crisis, served as the venue for this impactful initiative. The workshop focused on career development topics such as transferable skills, goal setting, interview techniques, and crafting personal mission statements, helping participants prepare for the workforce at all career stages.

“We are so grateful to partner with CareSource on the Career Readiness with a S.M.I.L.E. Workshop at City of Refuge,” said Camye Mackey, Executive Vice President and Chief People, Diversity, and Inclusion Officer for the Hawks and State Farm Arena. “Everyone has a unique career path, and it’s important to empower individuals to feel confident in taking the next step in their journey. Training sessions like this are one of the many ways we can help level the playing field and provide essential resources to our community.”

As part of the workshop, attendees received a career-readiness workbook provided by CareSource, filled with practical resources to aid in job searches, applications, and interview preparation. The workbook also offered continued learning materials, activity samples, and detailed information about the CareSource Life Services program.

“Health goes beyond what happens in a doctor’s office,” said Jason Bearden, Market President at CareSource Georgia. “We are committed to providing life services – including opportunities and resources like the career-readiness workshop – that empower the families and communities we serve. CareSource is honored to join the Atlanta Hawks in hosting the Career Readiness with a S.M.I.L.E. Workshop, and we thank City of Refuge for partnering with us on such an important initiative.”

In addition to the educational content, participants enjoyed lunch, received co-branded Hawks and CareSource merchandise, and experienced a special visit from Hawks Entertainment, including the ATL Dancers, adding excitement and energy to the day’s programming.

“At City of Refuge, we believe every individual deserves access to the tools and opportunities that lead to meaningful employment and long-term success,” said Jeannie Ross, Director of Workforce Innovation at City of Refuge. “Partnering with CareSource and the Atlanta Hawks for the Career Readiness with a S.M.I.L.E. Workshop allows us to empower our community with real-world skills, confidence, and a vision for a brighter future.”

This event continues a multi-year partnership between the Atlanta Hawks and CareSource, launched in 2022, which has included several initiatives to support health, wellness, and underserved communities across Atlanta. Highlights include Culture Fest at State Farm Arena and collaborative efforts with the Latin American Association to host a food distribution event that served more than 450 families.

To learn more about the Atlanta Hawks’ community programs, visit Hawks.com/Community. For more information on the CareSource Life Services program, visit CareSource.com/members/tools-resources/life-services.