South Fulton Today

Delta Air Lines and The Delta Air Lines Foundation have announced a substantial commitment to Clayton County, Georgia. Over the next five years, the organizations will contribute over $16.5 million in charitable donations to the community. This initiative aims to bolster education and workforce development in the area, which hosts Delta's headquarters and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

The Delta Air Lines Foundation is set to provide $13.5 million in grants. Part of this funding will support the Clayton County Delta Junior Achievement Discovery Center, Flint River Boys and Girls Club, and scholarships dedicated to students aspiring to pursue aviation careers. Delta Air Lines will supplement this with $3 million to aid workforce development and other local initiatives.

Delta's engagement with Clayton County extends its mission to connect with communities where the company operates. According to Peter Carter, Delta Chief External Affairs Officer, and trustee of The Delta Air Lines Foundation: “Delta’s mission to connect the world starts with our commitment to the communities where we live, work and serve.”

The Discovery Center will host hands-on simulations for students to acquire practical skills in financial literacy and business readiness. It will be located in the upcoming Convocation Center at Southlake Mall, divided into $10 million in Foundation grants shared between the Clayton County Public Schools Foundation and Junior Achievement of Georgia. Middle Georgia State University will receive $2.5 million for scholarships for local graduates who demonstrate potential in aviation.

Georgia Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock supports Delta's investment, emphasizing its potential to benefit the community's future. Clayton County Board Chairwoman Dr. Alieka Anderson-Henry also praised the commitment, underlining the county's role in Delta's operations.

Delta's substantial contribution is part of larger ongoing efforts. This new investment builds on a previous grant in 2018 of $16 million, reiterating Delta's commitment to enhancing opportunities for local communities.

This investment aims to support local infrastructure and youth through educational grants, as emphasized by U.S. Rep. Nikema Williams. Clayton County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Anthony W. Smith noted that the partnership offers significant advantages for students preparing to enter the workforce.

John Hancock, President, and CEO of Junior Achievement of Georgia expressed gratitude for the new Delta partnership, stating it will increase outreach to students across Georgia significantly.

Overall, The Delta Air Lines Foundation aims to deepen its impact by investing in educational and developmental resources, which will further integrate Delta within the Clayton County community.