EMANCIPATION COMMITTEE OF UPSON
Be Part of Our Legacy
Preserving our history. Strengthening our community. Carrying our traditions forward.
More Than Members. A Community.
The Emancipation Committee of Upson brings together individuals who share a commitment to preserving our heritage and strengthening our community. Our members play an important role in continuing the May 29th Emancipation Celebration and supporting the traditions that connect generations throughout Upson County.
Stay Informed. Stay Involved.
Committee Meeting Calendar
Stay connected with the Emancipation Committee of Upson. View upcoming meetings, planning sessions, and important gatherings as we work together to preserve our heritage and strengthen our community.
Meeting Categories
● General Committee Meetings
● Youth Alive Meetings
Upcoming Meetings
Youth Alive Meeting: November 10, 2026 @ 6:30 P.M.
ECU Meeting: November 10, 2026 @7:30 P.M
OUR PURPOSE
Preserving the Past.
Building the Future.
Our purpose is to raise funds to preserve and continue Upson County’s annual Emancipation Day celebration, commemorating May 29, 1865, while strengthening our community through cultural, educational, and civic engagement.
THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE TRADITION
Meet Our Leadership
Our officers provide leadership, coordination, and guidance as the Emancipation Committee of Upson works to preserve our heritage and serve our community.
PRESIDENT
Dr. Rita Drake
Assistant event / fundraising director
Mr. Jarreau Walker
VICE PRESIDENT / YOUTH ALIVE ADVISOR
Ms. Brenda Hobbs
ASSISTANT EVENT / FUNDRAISING DIRECTOR
Ms. Mattie King
Secretary
Ms. Samantha Willis
parliAmentarian
Ms. Shirlene Jordan
treasurer
Ms. Patricia Strickland
HISTORIAN
Rev. James McGill
assistant treasurer
Ms. Diamonds Sparks
CHAPLAIN
Min. Mia Collier
ASSISTANT EVENT / FUNDRAISING DIRECTOR
Ms. Jada York
YOUTH ALIVE ADVISOR
Ms. Deneane Jones
THE HEART OF ECU
Our Members
Our members are the heart of the Emancipation Committee of Upson. Through their dedication, teamwork, and commitment to community, they help bring our traditions and celebrations to life.
Tia Greene
Layryes Dubinion
Marilyn Staten
Kevin Prater
Aneal Jones
Javon Skelton
Rev. Robert Chatman Sr.
Ronnie Heath
George Carriker - Honorary Member
Doris Walden
Jacolby Caldwell
Langston Johnson - Honorary Member
Making a Difference Together
☰
Plan & Organize
Support the planning and coordination of celebrations, events, and community activities.
♡
Serve & Support
Contribute time, talents, and volunteer efforts to committee initiatives.
❦
Preserve Our Heritage
Help honor and share the history and traditions associated with May 29th.
✣
Strengthen Our Community
Encourage fellowship, participation, and meaningful connections across generations.
Your Membership Matters
Membership is an opportunity to take an active role in something meaningful. Whether contributing ideas, assisting with events, or helping preserve community traditions, every member can make a valuable contribution to ECU's continuing legacy.
Ready to Join Us?
Interested in becoming part of the Emancipation Committee of Upson? We'd love to hear from you. Share your interest in membership and learn more about opportunities to get involved.
01
Express Your Interest
Complete the membership interest form.
02
Connect With ECU
A committee representative can provide information about membership expectations and the next steps.
03
Get Involved
Once membership requirements are completed and membership is confirmed, begin participating in committee activities.
MEMBERSHIP QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can become an ECU member?
We welcome individuals who are passionate about:
• Community service
• Preserving history
• Cultural education
• Planning community events
• Making a positive impact
• Working alongside others to strengthen our community
No special experience is required—just a willing heart and a desire to serve.
Are there membership dues?
Yes. Annual membership dues are $50. Once your application and membership fee are received, you are officially a member of the Emancipation Committee of Upson County, Inc.
Are members expected to attend meetings?
Regular meetings are held at 7:30 P.M. at the Thomaston-Upson Senior Center, 302 S. Bethel Street, Thomaston, GA. Meetings are held on the 2nd Tuesday from June through January, the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays from February through April, and every Tuesday in May. To become an Active Member, attend two additional consecutive regular Committee meetings after becoming a member.
How can I get involved in committee activities?
Members can support our mission by volunteering at events throughout the year, including the Annual Emancipation Celebration on May 29th, Emancipation Revival, MLK Day Celebration and MLK Revival, Heritage Awards Banquet, youth scholarship and recognition programs, educational and historical programs, community outreach initiatives, and fundraising events.
EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION
ECU Youth Alive
Developing Leaders. Serving Our Community. Preserving Our Heritage.
ECU Youth Alive inspires students in grades 9–12 to become active community leaders while helping preserve Upson County's history and annual Emancipation Day tradition. Through service projects, fundraising, leadership development, and community events, members gain meaningful opportunities to grow, contribute, and help carry our legacy forward.
Learning to Lead
Youth Alive members learn leadership by doing. Elected student officers help guide the group, while adult advisors offer mentorship and support. Together, members plan projects, take part in community involvement, and build the confidence, teamwork, and responsibility needed to lead.
Membership Opportunities
Youth Leadership
Opportunities to serve as President, Vice President, or Secretary.
Community Service
Participation in volunteer activities, outreach programs, and ECU events.
Scholarship Opportunities
Eligible graduating seniors may be considered for ECU scholarships.
Activities & Trips
Fundraising, monthly meetings, and possible end-of-year trips depending on available funds and participation.
Every member receives an official Youth Alive T-shirt.
SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION
Graduating seniors may qualify for scholarship consideration after at least two years of active membership, 75% attendance at meetings and events, and meaningful participation. Awards depend on available funds and ECU member approval.
WHO CAN JOIN?
Membership is open to students in grades 9–12 who commit to regular meetings, projects, fundraisers, and community activities.
Be Part of the Legacy
Join ECU Youth Alive and help shape the future of our community.