NEWS & OPINIONS
Solving the food stamp benefits cliffs
SNAP benefits cliffs are locking individuals and families in poverty. Our report outlines changes that can be made to fix the cliff.
Why crime in smaller cities like Columbus matters
A new effort seeks to address and prevent violent crime in smaller cities across the United States like Columbus, GA.
How a government shutdown hurts the poor: impacts on SNAP, WIC, and safety net reforms
For many Americans who currently need assistance from programs like SNAP, WIC, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and Social Security, a government shutdown can be a fearful prospect—and a distraction from the bipartisan solutions Congress should act on to better serve low-income Americans.
California’s Skyrocketing Crime: How It Happened and What to Do About It
A new report shows California’s murder rate has gone up almost 24% since 2017. Learn what is behind California’s skyrocketing crime and what to do about it.
Can we restore safety to Atlanta?
The Georgia Center for Opportunity is announcing a new report on violent crime in Atlanta, which highlights the city’s recent spike in violent crime and how to mitigate it.
Empowering South Columbus Through Collaboration: C3 Job Fair Success
A South Columbus Job fair emphasizes the belief in the potential of residents and demonstrates that collaborative efforts can lead to transformative change and a brighter future for their community.
Q&A with BETTER WORK partner Oatey
Discover the Impact: Oatey’s Collaboration with BETTER WORK Gwinnett. Explore how Oatey’s top-notch plumbing solutions align with community betterment. Learn how BETTER WORK is a driving force in achieving mutual goals through an insightful Q&A session.
Q&A with Amber Gorman on BETTER WORK Columbus’ Small Changes = Big Results class
Key Points We recently sat down with Amber Gorman, program specialist for BETTER WORK Columbus, to discuss a new GCO-led class being offered in the area called Small Changes = Big Results. In this interview, Amber shares what makes the class unique and how it’s...
Why Seattle’s Murder Rate Has Surged Against National Decline
A new report shows Seattle’s murder rate increased 13% in 2022, defying the national murder decline. See how state and city policy choices are playing a role.
Imagine a Georgia family miracle
Discover the Utah Family Miracle and its impact on economic success and happiness, as sociologist Brad Wilcox proposes a Family Impact Perspective to strengthen marriages and improve family well-being in Georgia.
We need more lawmakers like Georgia Rep. Mesha Mainor
Representative Mesha Mainor stood up for the education of kids in her community and paid a political price in the process.
Empowering Job Seekers: The Gwinnett Housing Corporation Event
Discover the highlights of the recent event organized by the Gwinnett Housing Corporation, where the BETTER WORK Program attracted over 60 participants seeking employment assistance. Learn about the collaboration between various organizations and their impact on the Lawrenceville and Norcross communities.
MEDIA MENTIONS
Gangs Are Back In San Diego
Gangs are re-emerging in Escondido, prompting the PD to reinstate the Gang crew. Former Assistant DA in Sacramento and former Senior Fellow at the California Justice Legal Foundation, and now Director of Criminal Justice Initiatives at the Georgia Center for...
Removing work disincentives in the social safety net will strengthen upward mobility and the economy
Policymakers at the national level looking for ways to strengthen economic opportunity too often fixate solely on expanding government programs. Instead, they should embrace a simple goal: eliminating barriers faced by people striving to improve their situation....
The Voice of Reason with Andy Hooser: Guest Josh Crawford
In a compelling episode of The Voice of Reason, host Andy Hooser welcomes Josh Crawford to discuss the critical issues surrounding criminal justice reform. With his extensive expertise in public safety, Josh delves into the current state of the criminal justice...
Op-Ed: This Father’s Day, men are struggling. We need to help them
RANDY HICKS, OPINION CONTRIBUTOR As we celebrate Father’s Day on June 16, it’s time for a renewed call to help men flourish in modern-day America. It’s well past time to begin addressing what has emerged as a deep problem in the United States: Aimless, lonely,...
There’s a crime divide between Americans and politicians, and voters are watching
BY JOSHUA CRAWFORD, OPINION CONTRIBUTOR With the announcement that President Biden and former President Trump will debate in Atlanta in June, the 2024 election cycle is in full swing. Many Americans are not enthused. Earlier this year, 67 percent of respondents told a...
Joshua Crawford on The Bill Cunningham Show
Josh Crawford, director of Criminal Justice Initiatives at the Georgia Center for Opportunity, joined The Bill Cunningham Show to discuss how crime is likely to influence the upcoming November election. Tune in to hear his expert analysis on this crucial issue. Listen...
Joshua Crawford Featured on The Steve Gruber Show
Josh Crawford, director of Criminal Justice Initiatives at the Georgia Center for Opportunity and a public safety policy leader, recently appeared on The Steve Gruber Show. In his interview, he explores the growing crime divide between Americans and politicians and...
Unraveling the Damage Done by Our Welfare System
Education, employment, and family formation are “the building blocks for a flourishing life,” says the leader of the Georgia Center for Opportunity. But, unfortunately, America’s welfare system includes penalties for both work and family formation, Randy Hicks says. ...
