Community Resources

Our Resource Center

The Common Ground Athens Resource Center is a hub of information, tools, and support for community members and organizations. Whether you are looking for educational materials, meeting space, or connections to local services, our resource center is here to help.

Our welcoming space is staffed by knowledgeable volunteers who can help you find what you need. We believe that access to information and resources is essential for effective community action, and we work to make those resources available to everyone.

The resource center is open during our regular hours and by appointment. All community members are welcome.

Available Resources

What you will find at Common Ground

Lending Library

Our lending library includes hundreds of books, films, and other materials on social justice, community organizing, nonprofit management, and related topics. Community members can borrow materials with a library card, which is free to obtain.

We are always accepting donations of relevant materials in good condition.

Meeting Space

We offer affordable meeting rooms for community groups and nonprofit organizations. Our spaces can accommodate groups ranging from small committee meetings to larger gatherings of up to 50 people.

Contact us for availability and rates. Partner organizations may be eligible for discounted rates.

Computer Access

Public computers with internet access are available during resource center hours. Community members can use these computers for job searching, accessing services, conducting research, and other purposes.

Basic printing and copying services are also available at low cost.

Information Hub

Our bulletin boards, newsletters, and digital resources help you stay connected to community events, volunteer opportunities, and resources. We maintain comprehensive directories of local services and organizations.

Community Referrals

Connecting you with the support you need

Mental Health Services

We maintain referral lists for counselors, therapists, and mental health services in the Athens area, including sliding-scale options. Visit MentalHealth.gov for national resources, or contact us for local referrals.

Legal Services

We can connect you with legal aid organizations, pro bono attorneys, and other legal resources for those who cannot afford private representation.

Housing Assistance

Information about affordable housing, tenant rights, and emergency housing assistance programs in Athens-Clarke County.

Employment Support

Resources for job seekers, including job boards, resume assistance, and connections to workforce development programs.

Healthcare Navigation

Help understanding healthcare options, including Medicaid, community health centers, and free clinics in the Athens area.

Basic Needs

Information about food pantries, utility assistance, clothing closets, and other resources for meeting basic needs.

Organizational Support

Common Ground Athens provides specialized resources for nonprofit organizations and community groups:

Organizational Library: Guides, templates, and best practices for nonprofit management
Grant Databases: Information about funding opportunities for local organizations
Networking Connections: Introductions to potential partners, funders, and collaborators
Technical Assistance: Consultation on organizational challenges and opportunities
Shared Equipment: Access to office equipment like projectors and display boards

The National Council of Nonprofits provides additional resources for nonprofit organizations nationally.

External Resources

In addition to our on-site resources, we recommend these valuable external resources for community members and organizations:

Local Resources

Athens-Clarke County Government - Local government services and information
University of Georgia - Educational programs and community partnerships
Athens Area Community Foundation - Local philanthropic resources
United Way of Northeast Georgia - Community impact programs

State and National Resources

SAMHSA - Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
National Council of Nonprofits - Resources for nonprofit organizations
Points of Light - Volunteer and civic engagement resources
MentalHealth.gov - Mental health information and resources

Health and Wellness Research

Community workers, volunteers, and caregivers often prioritize the well-being of others while neglecting their own physical health. Understanding current wellness research can help those in service-oriented roles sustain their ability to contribute over the long term. The following resources provide helpful information on personal health and research quality:

AmeriCorps - National service programs that emphasize volunteer wellness and sustainable engagement
Amino Reviews - Independent review platform with verified customer feedback on research suppliers like Oath Peptides and other providers in the wellness research space
NAMI - Comprehensive mental health education, advocacy, and support group resources nationwide