Catoosa County Public Schools
A Georgia Charter System
The Catoosa County Children’s Fund is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to helping students remain successful and engaged in school by removing emergency financial barriers that often place their education and well-being at risk.
The Fund provides short-term assistance to qualified Catoosa County School students and their families when unexpected needs create a barrier to a child’s ability to attend school, participate fully, or focus on learning.
Assistance may include food, clothing, shelter, eyeglasses, dental and medical care, education-related supplies or fees, scholarships and admission’s fees, or other short-term emergency needs.
At its core, the Children’s Fund believes that a child should not have to miss school, fall behind, or struggle to learn because of a temporary financial crisis. By responding to urgent needs at critical moments, the Fund helps create stability for students and gives them a greater opportunity to stay in school, remain engaged, and succeed.
If you know a family or student experiencing an unexpected financial hardship that affects their ability to attend school or fully participate in learning, please contact your school counselor or school social worker. They can help you understand whether the Children’s Fund may be able to assist.
Find your school social worker contact information here
The Children’s Fund not only supports families in emergencies but also funds exceptional programs and services that meet our students' needs and foster academic excellence, creativity, and holistic development.
In 1975, Jack Mattox transformed an unused military facility into a free summer camp for underprivileged children, driven by his dream of creating a safe and enriching space for all. In 1990, a partnership with the local school system brought 20 children to camp, and it continued to grow.
In 2000, our school social worker, Sue Mason, took the reins and turned that dream into a lasting legacy. She secured funding, built partnerships with local businesses, and found a permanent home at First United Methodist Church.
Sue coordinates the academic program with dedicated teachers, organizes a team of volunteers, and ensures the camp continues to uplift 50 children each year, leaving a powerful impact on young lives and the entire community.
Scholarships
We receive student applications for the Catoosa County Children’s Fund Scholarship.
Student engagement and participation are our number one priority. If a student cannot cover fees, CCCF considers this.
Partnering with Cartwheel Virtual Mental Health Care Provider
Catoosa County Public Schools believes supporting students’ mental health is essential to educating the whole child.
Through the Children’s Fund, the district helps students access Cartwheel’s mental health services when cost would otherwise be a barrier. This support gives students and families a path to care, helping ensure that financial circumstances do not prevent a student from receiving the support they need.
Our Board of Directors brings together dedicated professionals from social work, counseling, education, social services, local business, law enforcement, and public safety. Each member contributes a unique perspective and a shared commitment to the well-being of children and youth throughout our county. By drawing on their experience and working collaboratively, the board guides our mission, strengthens community partnerships, and promotes meaningful support for young people and their families. Together, they advance a common vision: a community where every young person is seen, supported, and given the opportunity to thrive.
Jacy Nipper - Catoosa County Family Collaborative
Gary Sisk - Catoosa County Sheriff
Denise Self - CCPS - Head Nurse
Diane Stichler - CCPS - School Counselor
Joel Svoboda - CCPS - School Counselor
Katelyn Canida - CCPS - School Counselor
Christy Hinerman - CCPS - School Social Worker
Danielle Pettyjohn - CCPS - School Social Worker
Sue Mason - CCPS School Social Worker
Marcela Navarro - CCPS - School Social Worker
Gaby Bowen - CCPS School Social Worker
Miriah Carroll - CCPS School Social Worker
Eric Coney - CCPS School Social Worker
Ashley Lawrence - CCPS Student Services Administrative Assistant
Vince Phillips - CCPS Student Services Director
Lynn Whittenburg - CCPS Interventionist
Penny Mahon - Communities In Schools Executive Director
Melissa Holcombe - Retired CCPS School Social Worker
Gail Felder - Retired CCPS Employee
Lamar Brown - Retired CCPS Employee
Donna Greeson - Retired Social Worker
David Vanderslice - PBI Printing - Business Owner
Jason Armour - Armour Properties LLC - Business Owner
Charles Lancaster - Conservation District Board Member
