A Season of Growth: Summer Internships at FPCC

As the first days of summer arrive, Family Promise of Cobb County is celebrating more than just sunshine and longer days—we’re celebrating growth. This season marks a time of transformation, both for the families we serve and the dedicated individuals who serve alongside us.

This summer, FPCC welcomes student interns and volunteers who bring fresh energy, talent, and compassion to our work in Marietta and throughout Cobb County. These individuals play a vital role in our mission to help families experiencing homelessness achieve long-term stability and independence.

The Role of Internships at FPCC

Summer internships at FPCC aren’t just about learning—they’re about making a difference. Interns support various aspects of our work, gaining hands-on experience in:

• Communications and storytelling

• Grant writing and nonprofit development

• Program operations and casework support

• Event planning and donor engagement

By engaging directly with staff, community partners, and guest families, interns see the full scope of how a community-based solution can address the complex issue of family homelessness in Georgia.

This experiential learning not only benefits the intern—it enhances the quality and reach of FPCC’s programs.

Intern Spotlight: Laura Fortenberry & Micah Nix

This summer, FPCC is proud to host two passionate and talented interns: Laura Fortenberry and Micah Nix, each bringing their unique perspectives and strengths to our mission.

Laura Fortenberry

Laura is a Master of Arts student in Professional Writing at Kennesaw State University. Her journey with FPCC began in 2015 as a host congregation volunteer, where she and her young sons shared meals and created memories with guest families. Now, she’s contributing her writing and research skills to support our grant writing and donor communication efforts. Her work helps us connect with new funding sources that sustain our mission.

Micah Nix

Micah Nix is a graduate student at Georgia Southern University, pursuing her Master of Arts in Social Science with a concentration in Sociology. She holds dual bachelor’s degrees in Political Science and International Affairs from the University of Georgia. A former volunteer with Family Promise of Athens, Micah brings both passion and experience to her role at FPCC. When she’s not supporting our programs, she works full-time as a Legal Assistant in Atlanta.

Together, Laura and Micah represent the heart of what makes internships at FPCC so powerful: a shared commitment to learning, serving, and growing alongside the families we support.

Why Summer Internships Matter

Summer presents unique challenges for families facing homelessness. With schools closed, children lose access to school meals and a consistent daily routine. Parents—especially single mothers—must navigate added pressures related to childcare, transportation, and employment.

This is where our summer interns and volunteers step in.

Their contributions ensure that families continue to receive wraparound support during a season when needs often increase. Laura and Micah both bring skills and compassion to their roles, helping behind the scenes and on the front lines.

Internships at FPCC also give students firsthand insight into the realities of housing insecurity. They learn how factors like eviction, domestic violence, job loss, and lack of affordable housing intersect—especially in a rapidly growing area like Marietta.

The Local Landscape: Homelessness in Cobb County

Family homelessness continues to affect thousands of families in Georgia each year. In Cobb County alone, over 1,600 students were identified as experiencing homelessness during the 2023–2024 school year, according to the Cobb County School District’s McKinney-Vento Program.

Despite misconceptions, most of these families are not living on the street—they’re often doubled up, staying in cars, or relying on temporary shelters. FPCC’s programs are designed to meet these families where they are and help them move forward with dignity and stability.

A Season of Possibility

Summer at FPCC is more than just a busy time—it’s a season of hope and new beginnings. Our interns and volunteers make it possible for us to maintain high-quality services, even as demand rises.

At the same time, interns like Laura and Micah grow in knowledge, empathy, and professional capacity. Many go on to careers in nonprofit leadership, social work, education, or public policy. Some return as volunteers. A few, like Laura, never truly leave—because this work stays with you.

Get Involved

Are you a student or young professional looking to make a meaningful impact this summer—or any season? We invite you to be part of the solution to family homelessness in Cobb County.

FPCC offers internships and volunteer opportunities throughout the year in areas like:

• Communications & PR

• Program support & case management

• Event coordination

• Fundraising & development

• Community outreach

Whether you’re earning college credit or simply want to give back, we’d love to hear from you.

👉 Learn more and apply at fpcobb.org/volunteers

Final Thoughts

At Family Promise of Cobb County, we believe that every season holds potential—but summer, in particular, reminds us how quickly things can change when the conditions are right. With the support of interns like Laura and Micah, and the compassion of our broader community, we’re helping families grow roots, regain stability, and envision a future beyond homelessness.

Let this season be one of action. One of transformation. One of growth.