Cherokee County Commissioners Award $100k to Circle of Friends

 The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners have unanimously approved Circle of Friends for a grant in the amount of one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) after receiving federal funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). These funds are to be dedicated towards the opening of our second café, affectionately known as Circle of Friends Flourish Café. 

This move further emboldens our message of inclusivity and supportive employment within Cherokee County and will enable us to employ over ten more staff members. This award is also a testament of the arduous work our leadership team focuses on, which has included educating those within the county about the need for additional services and the desire from residents seeking new and innovative spaces to enjoy. 

Founders, Diane and Glenn Keen stated, “Flourish Café started as a dream several years ago and began with a fantastic opportunity when we opened Circle of Friends Coffee Shop in downtown Woodstock out of The Circuit – a public co-working space nestled inside of Chattahoochee Tech’s campus. Our intention is to continue operating the shop there. This second location will provide new opportunities to expand our offerings and social programming to those around the county." 

With this opportunity, Circle of Friends will offer greater food options, such as breakfast and lunch, and new and innovative drinks. This additional location will allow us to continue growing our social programing to further reduce isolation commonly seen in this population of adults. In our feasibility study, we have assessed the Canton, Holly Springs, Hickory Flat, and Woodstock areas as potential locations. Any leads on available space for lease and/or purchase would be appreciated. 

We thank Cherokee County Manager, Geoff Morton; Agency Manager, Stacey Williams; Grants Manager, Kristi Bosch; as well as the US Department of Treasury for the opportunity to flourish by expanding the awareness, need, and desire for greater supportive employment options throughout our community.