The Clarke County Sheriff's Office joined forces with several local businesses and community organizations to bring world-renowned vocal artist and lecturer, Dr. Wintley Phipps, to the Classic Center in Athens, Georgia on May 1, 2008. The “Evening of Inspiration and Hope” was the second event in an effort to inspire and motivate the local youth in Athens-Clarke County Georgia. In Georgia, statistics have shown that 49% of prisoners have had multiple prior offenses with 28% having two or more. “This is why we must commit to early intervention to help break the cycle of low self-esteem and hopelessness in our community,” says Sheriff Edwards.

Dr. Phipps, a two time Grammy nominee, has performed for five U.S. Presidents and has lectured all over the world. Dr. Phipps both encouraged and challenged over 1200 attendees to take advantage of the talents and opportunities afforded them and to never forget those who assisted in their success. Sheriff Edwards encouraged youth to make learning fun by starting book clubs and enjoying board games. He further presented a summer reading challenge called the “Double Dawg DARE You Challenge”, where he urged youth to read and present a summary of their study for a back-to-school gift certificate. A special thanks goes out to all of to the Clarke County Sheriff’s Office staff, committee members, local sponsors and partners that made this event a success.

VIEW PHOTOS FROM THE EVENT HERE