When asking yourself about something to do near me in Atlanta with a group of friends or family, consider
City of Refuge
Why City of Refuge is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
City of Refuge is a faith-based emergency shelter located in Atlanta, Georgia, dedicated to helping individuals and families transition out of crisis into stability and self-sufficiency. This organization provides a supportive environment that emphasizes transformation, personal growth, and hope, making it an excellent place for community engagement and support. Visitors and clients alike praise the compassionate and holistic approach City of Refuge embraces, which includes not only shelter but also educational programs, counseling, job readiness, and wellness services such as access to a gym and free meals. The center fosters a strong sense of community among residents and staff, highlighted by its Christian environment that promotes empathy and mutual respect. Its commitment to helping vulnerable populations is evident in its comprehensive resources designed to empower clients to rebuild their lives and regain independence. City of Refuge’s atmosphere balances warmth, care, and professional support, aiming to create lasting positive change. The location serves as an important meeting point where friends and community members can support one another while engaging in meaningful social initiatives and volunteer efforts, reinforcing the spirit of solidarity and hope within Atlanta.
Here's what people think of City of Refuge
As of recent, City of Refuge holds a 3.9-star rating based on 129 reviews.
User reviews of City of Refuge reveal a generally positive perception of the organization's mission and impact but highlight areas of concern in service delivery and internal management. Many reviewers commend City of Refuge for its transformative work with homeless populations and individuals facing difficult life situations. Positive reviews often emphasize the organization's welcoming Christian atmosphere, its dedication to helping people change their lives, and the supportive work environment for staff and volunteers. Reviewers appreciate the educational opportunities available to interns and staff, as well as free amenities such as gym access and meals, showing a commitment to holistic care and employee wellbeing. Conversely, some negative reviews focus on issues related to management, including claims of retaliatory behavior and dissatisfaction with the quality of certain programs, particularly those funded externally. Transportation to the center was also noted as a difficulty by some workers. Despite these criticisms, the consensus expresses respect for the challenging work City of Refuge does and the genuine difference it makes in people's lives. Overall, reviewers conclude that while there is room for improvement, City of Refuge stands as a vital and compassionate presence in the Atlanta community, striving to provide impactful services and foster transformation even amid operational challenges.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Sue Fanning
The most unpretentious place of worship I’ve ever been to. Being new to the area I felt very welcomed by the friendly host and church go is there. The band is absolutely amazing and Pastor Tim seems very relatable.
Willian Prado
The City of Refuge Cybersecurity Program in Atlanta, Georgia, provides support and training to underserved communities, particularly those at risk of cyber threats. The initiative focuses on enhancing digital literacy, offering job training, and creating pathways to cybersecurity careers. By equipping individuals with essential skills, the program aims to bridge the digital divide, foster economic empowerment, and improve resilience against cyber threats for vulnerable populations.
Kwaniqua Hathaway
Me and my kids stay here. It's the absolute best shelter in Atlanta. I love my case manager and the director. They are very mindful of everyone. I love my room, my son loves it here. The food is pretty darn good. My son calls it a hotel and it doesn't fall to short. They have everything we need and they care. We actually have time to make things happen in order to create stability. It's not perfect some of the RSA's have power trips..they can get beside themselves.. but hey that's life, you just got a brush it off and move forward... And if you address it respectfully and appropriately they don't seem to hold it against you and try to do better so I can appreciate that for sure. I have to mention that because to all my fellow homeless people... there is no perfect place. But It's great here.
Ms. Jordan
I am writing to express my profound disappointment with my recent experiences at City of Refuge. I encountered several concerning issues during my interactions with the staff that significantly impacted my experience and left me feeling disheartened and unsupported. Specifically, I observed a lack of consistent and equitable assistance. My requests for help were not always met with the responsiveness or understanding I expected. Furthermore, I perceived instances of favoritism and preferential treatment towards certain individuals, which created an inequitable environment. On several occasions, my concerns and perspectives seemed to be disregarded, even when presented with supporting evidence. I felt that my accounts were not given the weight they deserved. The communication style adopted by some staff members was also concerning. I felt patronized and disrespected, even when making an effort to maintain a respectful and cooperative demeanor. This created a hostile and unproductive interaction. I am deeply troubled by these experiences and hope that this feedback will be taken seriously. I believe that addressing these issues is vital for ensuring a fair and supportive environment for all who rely on City of Refuge's services. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss my concerns further and work towards constructive solutions.
Charlzae Davis
Staff disrespectful and rude . They do not help with housing case manager will even tell you that . Dont even waste your time. They will write you up for the smallest things . You are forced to either go to church on sundays or have a pass to be out the building. They check your rooms without telling you . If your late for breakfast lunch or dinner you get a write up highly don’t recommend if you are pregnant because they dont care you will have to do chores like everyone else . Doesn't matter if you’re in pain. Rooms are nice tho food is nasty. The RSAs really make you feel like your a prisoner . The case managers dont care about you they all just there to get paid to be honest. Being at that place really messes up your mental health. 0/10 highly dont recommend
How to reach City of Refuge
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Why City of Refuge may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at City of Refuge with your friends?
Gathering at City of Refuge offers a unique and meaningful experience for groups looking to connect with each other while contributing to a cause bigger than themselves. This place is much more than a typical meetup spot; it is a vibrant community hub dedicated to transforming lives and providing hope for those facing significant hardships in Atlanta’s Westside neighborhood. With a rating of 3.9 based on 129 reviews, City of Refuge has earned recognition as a supportive, faith-based environment that helps individuals and families transition out of crisis. When you bring your friends here, you’re not only sharing quality time but also engaging in an atmosphere filled with compassion, resilience, and community spirit. The shared mission of the organization creates a powerful backdrop for group activities, making your gathering deeply impactful and inspiring as you witness firsthand the positive change being fostered in a high-need area. Moreover, the environment encourages empathy and connection, offering ample opportunities for your group to bond through volunteering, learning, and participating in community-centered events. Going beyond ordinary social spaces, City of Refuge invites friends and family to rally around a cause, making your meetup purposeful and memorable with a chance to give back while enjoying each other's company.
What activities are available for group meetups at City of Refuge?
City of Refuge offers a variety of engaging and impactful activities perfectly suited for groups who want to socialize and support the community. One of the primary ways to connect with the city’s mission is through volunteer opportunities. Groups can join in meal preparation and distribution, helping serve thousands of meals annually to people in need. This collective service not only fosters teamwork but also allows groups to experience the fulfillment that comes from giving back. Additionally, City of Refuge’s programs include community support services that address homelessness, job readiness, and family stability, where groups may be able to participate in workshops or community events hosted on-site. These events often include educational sessions, wellness activities, and faith-centered gatherings that promote personal growth and communal healing. There are also opportunities for groups interested in hands-on involvement with projects like assisting housing initiatives or organizing resource drives. The variety of activities ensures that every meetup at City of Refuge can be tailored to the group’s interests and energy levels while maintaining the organization’s core mission of transformation and hope.
Why is City of Refuge the perfect place for a group meetup?
City of Refuge’s atmosphere and mission make it an ideal setting for group meetups, especially when friends or family want their time together to have deeper meaning and positive impact. The organization’s faith-based, compassionate culture fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued. This setting encourages genuine connection, both within your group and with the broader community the organization serves. The location itself is central to the revitalization of a neighborhood that has historically suffered from poverty and neglect, offering your group the chance to participate in meaningful social change. Group meetups here can transcend usual socialization by including acts of charity or service, which help strengthen bonds through shared purpose. Furthermore, City of Refuge provides a setting that accommodates a range of group sizes and interests, from intimate gatherings to larger volunteer teams. The organization’s staff is known for their supportive and dedicated approach, making it easy for visitors to engage with programs and feel appreciated. This unique combination of social, spiritual, and service opportunities makes City of Refuge especially suitable for those wanting a meetup that blends fellowship and tangible contributions to the community.
How does City of Refuge contribute to community transformation?
City of Refuge plays an active and monumental role in transforming Atlanta’s Westside neighborhood, an area facing some of the state’s highest rates of poverty and social challenges. The organization has placed hundreds of people in jobs, housed many families, and served hundreds of thousands of meals to local residents in need. These efforts collectively reduce barriers to stability and provide pathways to opportunity for residents struggling with homelessness, addiction, or unemployment. The approach is holistic, addressing immediate needs such as food and shelter, while also focusing on long-term outcomes like job readiness and family support. This commitment to empowerment enhances the overall well-being and safety of the community. Importantly, City of Refuge offers a sanctuary where dignity is restored and lives are rebuilt through compassionate care, education, and community collaboration. Groups visiting this organization for a meetup participate in this transformative effort, witnessing and contributing to real change beyond their gathering, making it a meaningful experience unmatched by ordinary venues.
What makes the staff and environment at City of Refuge stand out?
One of the most praised aspects of City of Refuge is its people—the dedicated staff and volunteers who create a warm, supportive environment for all who come through its doors. Reviews highlight the staff’s empathy, passion, and commitment to making a difference in residents’ lives. Employees and volunteers alike describe working or participating here as “fun,” inspiring, and fulfilling, emphasizing the low-pressure but highly impactful nature of the work. This caring atmosphere extends to visitors, making City of Refuge not just a service provider but a community where trust and kindness flourish. The environment is enriched by a Christian faith-based ethos that permeates the culture without being exclusive, fostering inclusivity and respect among diverse groups. For friends and families gathering at City of Refuge, this welcoming spirit is key to creating a memorable and bonding experience, as you all engage together in acts of kindness and support, guided by staff who are both professional and deeply caring.
How accessible and convenient is City of Refuge for a group gathering?
Located at 1300 Joseph E Boone Blvd NW in Atlanta, City of Refuge is situated in a neighborhood that is central and reachable for groups coming from various parts of the city. The accessibility of this location allows friends and family to convene without the travel hassle common to many busy social spots. The venue itself is thoughtfully designed to accommodate not only day-to-day operations but group activities including volunteer programs and community events. While City of Refuge may not be a traditional event space, its facilities support interactive and dynamic gatherings aimed at service and connection. The organization’s approach to scheduling and hosting visitors tends to be flexible, understanding that groups may want to contribute in diverse ways or simply spend time together in a setting full of meaning. This accessibility combined with a structured yet welcoming framework ensures that your group meetup can be arranged smoothly, maximizing both enjoyment and impact.
What should groups expect when visiting City of Refuge?
Visitors to City of Refuge should anticipate an experience that is as much about human connection and shared purpose as it is about enjoying time together. Your group can expect to find a community-oriented environment that encourages learning, compassion, and active participation. Depending on your group’s preferences, the visit might involve volunteering alongside residents, attending educational or faith-based programming, or simply touring the facilities to understand the work being done. Guests often remark on the uplifting atmosphere despite the challenges faced by many in the community, inspired by the resilience of the people served and the dedication of the staff. While this is not a conventional entertainment venue, the emotional and social rewards of meeting here are profound, often encouraging groups to return or deepen their involvement. Expect your meetup at City of Refuge to be both humbling and empowering, providing plenty of meaningful conversation topics and lasting memories centered on empathy and community strength.
How can City of Refuge help groups make a continuous positive impact?
City of Refuge is not only adept at welcoming groups for one-time events but also provides pathways for ongoing involvement that enhance the benefits of your meetup. Groups can establish recurring volunteer days, participate in fundraising efforts, or engage in training sessions to deepen their support. The organization often provides resources and guidance to help groups sustain their impact beyond a single visit, connecting them with broader community initiatives or advocacy work. This continuity ensures that what begins as a social gathering evolves into a purposeful and lasting partnership. City of Refuge’s vision of collective impact means that group visits contribute to a larger movement of restoration and hope, engaging friends and family in a journey of shared commitment. By getting involved long term, groups help multiply the positive changes rippling through Atlanta’s Westside and create meaningful traditions of service alongside their personal connections.
Why is City of Refuge rated 3.9, and what does that mean for visitors?
A rating of 3.9 from 129 reviews reflects how City of Refuge is broadly regarded as a respectable and impactful organization, with most visitors and employees appreciating its mission and environment. Reviewers frequently praise the staff’s dedication, a positive workplace culture, and the organization’s meaningful work in serving vulnerable populations. Some criticism appears primarily from isolated negative experiences or challenges faced by staff, which is not uncommon in social service environments that deal with complex community issues. For visitors considering a group meetup, this rating suggests that while the organization is effective in its core mission and welcoming to guests, it may not offer the polished amenities of commercial venues. Instead, the value lies in the authentic and heartfelt experience it offers, which resonates most with groups eager to combine social time with purposeful engagement. In sum, the 3.9 rating points to a place that is genuine and impactful, ideal for those prioritizing social good in their meetups over luxury conveniences.