The Georgia Council of Court Administrators (GCCA) is a collective body of court officials and professionals established in 1997. Its primary mission is to promote the education of court officials, enabling them to efficiently execute court operations. To achieve this, GCCA offers two educational conferences per year, focusing on the National Association for Court Management’s “Core Competencies” for court management professionals and the promotion of excellence in the administration of justice and court management.
GCCA’s commitment to community service is exemplified through its non-profit program, GCCA Cares. This initiative aims to give back to the local community in each city hosting a GCCA conference. For the Fall 2025 GCCA conference, GCCA Cares supported the United Way of the Coastal Empire, an organization that has been aiding people in Bryan, Chatham, Effingham, and Liberty Counties for over 85 years. The United Way of the Coastal Empire supports programs in education, financial stability, health, and basic needs, impacting lives in both ordinary and crisis moments. During the conference, GCCA Cares raised $1,950 for this worthy organization.
In addition to monetary donations, GCCA members and conference attendees also contributed their time, energy, and efforts. LaShawn Murphy, Executive Trial Court Liaison at JC/AOC who chaired the GCCA Attendee & Engagement Sub-Committee, led the first hands-on service project during the fall conference, resulting in the assembly of 400 hurricane care packages in just six minutes by a dedicated team of about 40 volunteers who had signed up for the project. These care packages, which include batteries, blankets, flashlights, and hygiene supplies, will be distributed by the United Way of the Coastal Empire to those in need within its service area.
The success of GCCA Cares is a testament to the leadership and collaboration within the organization. Timothy Ezell, the Immediate Past President of GCCA, and LaShawn Murphy played pivotal roles in organizing and executing the service project. Their efforts, along with the support of the Education and Attendee & Engagement Sub-Committees and other volunteers, ensured the project’s success.
The United Way of the Coastal Empire provided both the bags and the necessities with which to fill them, and volunteers worked in assembly-line fashion to accomplish their tasks. The atmosphere while creating the care packages was lighthearted and cheerful, with music and a strong sense of camaraderie among the volunteers. The project not only provided essential supplies to those affected by Georgia’s frequent hurricanes but also fostered a sense of community and teamwork among GCCA members. Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Murphy shared, “It was very jovial, you know, our members are always willing to step up to get the work done.”
GCCA plans to continue its tradition of giving back to local communities through GCCA Cares. The organization is exploring the possibility of incorporating more hands-on service projects at future conferences, building on the success of the hurricane care packages initiative. Mr. Ezell noted that many of the charities operating in cities hosting GCCA conferences are overwhelmed and very appreciative of any support offered. When speaking with representatives of such organizations, he recalled that “you could just see from people’s faces sometimes how grateful they are, and that has meaning.”
The Georgia Council of Court Administrators, through its educational initiatives and community service projects, exemplifies the spirit of public service. GCCA Cares is a shining example of how organizations can make a positive impact on the communities they serve, demonstrating that when people come together, they can achieve remarkable things.
