Downtown Ministries

Downtown Ministries is a 501(c)3 faith-based nonprofit organization dedicated to partnering with our community to develop the next generation of Godly leaders in Athens, Georgia. Serving the local community through a Kingdom lens, Downtown Ministries engages hundreds of volunteers each year to cultivate relationships, empower youth, and support local families and neighbors in need through holistic care, accredited Christian education, hunger relief, and sports programming.

Our Daily Bread Community Kitchen
Operating out of First Baptist Church of Athens, Our Daily Bread serves hot meals, distributes essential resources, and offers a welcoming, judgment-free space to community members experiencing hunger and homelessness.

• Volunteer Shift Times:
  • Breakfast shifts are Tuesday–Thursday, 7:15-9:30 AM.
  • Lunch shifts are Monday–Friday, 11:00 AM-1:30 PM.
• Meal Preparation: Assist kitchen staff with prepping and cooking nutritious breakfast and lunch meals for guests.
• Meal Service & Hospitality: Serve food cafeteria-style during weekday meal shifts, greet guests, and engage with the community.
• Resource Distribution & Facilities Support: Help assemble and hand out hygiene kits, stock supply areas, and manage dining room setup and clean-up

Downtown Academy
Downtown Academy is a fully accredited Pre-K through 5th-grade Christian school focused on academic excellence, spiritual growth, and leadership development.

After-School Program (ASP): Work directly with students Monday–Friday, 3:00-5:30 PM by guiding homework time, assisting with reading practice, supervising creative activities, and leading outdoor sports.

Lunch Buddies: Spend time during the school lunch hour building relational connections, sharing positive encouragement, and mentoring students. (Please note: This opportunity is NOT available to college students.)

PLEASE NOTE: Volunteers serving with youth programs at Downtown Academy must complete and submit a background check through the Downtown Ministries website. Background check clearance is strictly required prior to approval for ASP shifts on GivePulse.