The Rouse Foundation Partners with Carroll County Education Foundation and Mentor Program

Foundation to create impactful opportunities for students while honoring legacy of Donna Rankin.

On October 10, 2024, in Carrollton, GA, The Rouse Foundation, a nonprofit committed to combating chronic heart disease in West Georgia through equitable healthcare access and community empowerment, is proud to announce its new partnership with the Carroll County Education Foundation and Mentor Program, an organization aimed at supporting students in their educational pursuits while honoring the significant contributions of local retired educator and counselor Donna Rankin.

“We are honored to continue to inspire future generations through Ms. Rankin’s legacy of mentorship and support,” said Rouse Foundation President Dr. Charlie Rouse. “This partnership allows us to extend her vision and provide critical resources to students throughout our community who need it most.”

In a recent initiative, Derick Newton and Robert Graf from the Carroll County Education Foundation and Mentor Program, along with Deirdre Rouse, co-founder of the Rouse Foundation, have collaborated with The Rouse Foundation to explore new ways to allocate funds in order to better support students.

Established in 1988, the Carroll County Education Foundation and Mentor Program has a rich history of helping students reduce dropout rates and enhance readiness in Carroll County. Co-founded by community leaders Bob Myers, Linda Stiles, and Tom Upchurch, the program has provided mentoring services and financial support to students in need, ensuring they have the resources necessary to attend college or technical school.

Donna Rankin, a cherished member of the Carroll County community and a longtime-serving board member of the Mentor Program, played a crucial role in the program’s development. Her dedication to matching students with mentors was instrumental in creating educational growth and support in the region. As a retired educator and counselor, Rankin was both a mentor to students and a guiding figure for fellow counselors.

The Rouse Foundation will work closely with the Carroll County Education Foundation and Mentor Program to create impactful opportunities for students and celebrate the enduring impact of Rankin’s work.

Left to right: Robert Graf, Deirdre Rouse, Dr. Charlie Rouse and Derick Newton