ATLANTA – State Representative Erica Thomas (D-Austell) will lead the Georgia House of Representatives in recognizing award-winning, platinum selling recording artist, Shaffer “Ne-Yo” Smith, founder of The Compound Foundation, on Thursday, April 2, 2015 at the State Capitol. Shaffer “Ne-Yo” Smith will be recognized for his work in the foster care community in the state of Georgia.
“It is a privilege and honor to welcome Shaffer ‘Ne-Yo’ Smith to our state Capitol,” said Rep. Erica Thomas. “We know Ne-Yo for his astounding musical talent, but I want to recognize him for his dedicated, immovable work in the foster care community. As a former child in foster care myself, I am touched to see someone of his remarkable talent and stature taking the time to give back to such a worthy community.”
This recognition is a part of Rep. Thomas’ larger initiative which focuses on foster care in the state of Georgia. Rep. Thomas authored and passed House Resolution 584, which established May 31, 2015 as “Foster Kid’s Day” in Georgia. On this day, Rep. Thomas will hold a youth-led, entertaining fundraising event called “Shall We Dance” to raise awareness for this issue. At this event, Rep. Thomas will also showcase a book she authored, It’s Erica. The book is designed to be a story of empowerment for children in foster care, and Rep. Thomas hopes to distribute the book to children in foster care throughout the state.
Shaffer “Ne-Yo” Smith’s Compound Foundation provides advocacy, money, education, and support to the foster community. The Compound Foundation seek to support bright futures for young people by helping them to forge healthy relationships, pursue education and training, learn entrepreneurship basics and realize their dreams. Their many outreach and support programs include Future CEO Academy, their annual Giving Tour, Music Therapy, Music Academy Boot Camp, grants, and scholarships.
Representative Erica Thomas represents the citizens of District 39, which includes portions of Cobb County. She was elected into the House of Representatives in 2014, and currently serves on the Juvenile Justice, Science and Technology, and Budget and Fiscal Affairs Oversight committees.
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