Douglas Rotary Club met at Douglas First Methodist Church on June 4, 2026 to celebrate Wiregrass Technical College Student of the Month Jermaine Riley as an early childhood program student of distinction and to hear from new Salvation Army Service Center Director Jessie Copcutt.
Mr. Riley was introduced by his instructor, Songelyn Smith, and joined at the meeting by Adult Education Dean Kelly Peacock. He had previously been honored by Douglas Rotary in 2025 as a top adult learner. He shared an amazing journey with members and guests and is most deserving of two recognitions. He received a framed certificate and check from Rotarian John Day.
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Ms. Copcutt was introduced by Rotarian Mark Miller and joined by Salvation Army Assistant Director April Merritt. Ms. Copcutt assumed her leadership role in April 2026, following work as a program manager for Hope for Coffee. After earning her bachelor’s degree in public health, she committed her life to God’s work through community service in Florida and Georgia.
She announced that Salvation Army has one or two more openings for their free summer camp in Jasper, GA from June 22-27 for children ages 7-12. She also shared the “Stuff the Bus” school supply collection event is July 9-11 at Walmart in Douglas. Volunteers are also needed following the school supply collection to distribute supplies to families.
Since the primary source of income is the Salvation Army thrift shop, furniture, clothing and other household donations are always welcome at the store, 110 Gaskin Ave. South. Rotarian and Salvation Army volunteer Frank Paul presented a donation from the Rotary Club to support the Salvation Army mission.
Douglas Rotary is a service organization seeking to advance the service ideals of Rotary International by investing time and resources in programs for children and youth, community development, disease prevention, family support, environmental health, and leadership development. Rotary meets on Thursdays from noon to 1 pm at the South Georgia State College Dining Hall in Douglas. Visitors and prospective members who are interested in personal and professional growth and community service are always welcome. For more information, call Clay Lott at 912-327-1921, Pastor Paul Elliott at 912-850-9631, or Mark Miller at 540-321-8191.
