Category: media-releases

Pebble Tossers Launches Next Generation of Middle School Leaders

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Atlanta Nonprofit Drives Civic Empowerment in Youth with Service-Learning Program

Atlanta, GA: Pebble Tossers Inc., Metro Atlanta’s leading youth service-learning nonprofit, has opened applications for middle school students to join its third Middle Years Leadership Program (MYLP) cohort, launching January 9, 2027. The four-month program blends hands-on community service with leadership development to cultivate civic empowerment, growth mindset, empathy, and peer collaboration.

● Application Period: October 1 – December 11, 2026

● Program Runtime: January 9, 2027 – April 17, 2026

● Program Fee: $225 per student, with financial aid available

● Application Link

A counterpart program of Pebble Tossers’ Teen Leadership Program (TLP), the MYLP gives middle school students a dynamic service-learning experience through bi-weekly meetings and a student-led group service project. By engaging youth during a key stage of development, the program encourages them to explore causes they care about and build habits of lifelong community leadership.

“Middle school is that formative window where youth start figuring out who they are, what they care about, and what values matter to them,” said Jonathan Gosse, Executive Director of Pebble Tossers. “The MYLP gives middle schoolers solid ground to find their footing. It’s a place where they can speak up, work through real challenges alongside peers, and realize they don’t have to wait to make a difference. I’m excited to see where the upcoming cohort takes their passion for change.”

“Before MYLP, I thought leaders were just the people in charge,” said Adaora Nwaehi, member of the inaugural MYLP cohort. “Now I know leaders are people who take action and get others involved. When I was at the shelter project, I felt like a leader because I was speaking up about adoption and why it matters. That made me see that kids can lead, too.”

The MYLP will welcome 20 students into the 2027 cohort. The program fee is $225 per student. Need-based financial aid is available so that cost is never a barrier to participation. For more information and to apply, please visit our website.

 

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About Pebble Tossers

Pebble Tossers is Metro Atlanta’s leading youth service-learning nonprofit organization focused on providing families with a comprehensive path to youth development through service, from preschool to graduation. Customized programming empowers youth to lead by providing age-appropriate service opportunities infused with a unique service-learning curriculum focused on social-emotional learning, positive youth development, social justice, and positive psychology. With Pebble Tossers, volunteers sign up, show up, and serve to create a ripple of giving in their community. For more information, visit www.pebbletossers.org.

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Pebble Tossers Announces Leadership Transition: Founding Executive Director Jennifer Guynn Retires, Jonathan Gosse Named Successor

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ATLANTA – February 28, 2025 – Pebble Tossers, Metro Atlanta’s leading youth development organization, announced the retirement of Founding Executive Director Jennifer Guynn after 16 years of service. Jonathan Gosse, a seasoned nonprofit leader, will succeed her as Executive Director, effective March 3, 2025.

Since its founding in 2008, Pebble Tossers has engaged more than 26,700 youth, ages 4 to 24, in volunteer service. In 2024 alone, the organization curated 477 service projects benefitting the Atlanta community. As executive director, Gosse will oversee strategic direction, program development and operations. Guynn will transition to the board of directors, ensuring continued guidance and support.

Gosse brings over 20 years of experience in nonprofit management, program development and community engagement. Most recently, he served as Vice President of Development at Soccer in the Streets, where he expanded outreach and fundraising efforts. Prior to that, he spent 18 years with the Oracabessa Foundation in Jamaica, leading strategic planning, fundraising, and community engagement initiatives.

“Jonathan’s experience in youth development and community building makes him the ideal leader for Pebble Tossers’ next chapter,” Guynn said. “His passion for empowering young people and fostering partnerships will ensure our continued growth and impact.”

“I’m thrilled to join the Pebble Tossers team and continue making a meaningful impact on youth,” said Gosse. “Service learning has been a guiding force in my life, and I’ve witnessed firsthand how working toward a cause greater than oneself can transform both individuals and communities. I look forward to expanding our reach and deepening our impact.”

Guynn’s legacy at Pebble Tossers is one of unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and service. Under her leadership, the organization provided opportunities for young people to engage in meaningful volunteerism, fostering a culture of giving that will continue for generations. One of Pebble Tossers’ youth development programs, the Teen Leadership Program, is a state-wide recognized youth leadership development program. “Jen’s dedication and vision drove Pebble Tossers into the impactful organization it is today,” said Kelly Weber, Board Member. “The programs she developed have shaped our future leaders.

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About Pebble Tossers

Pebble Tossers is Metro Atlanta’s leading youth development and service organization, creating pathways for youth and families to serve, lead, and succeed through meaningful volunteer experiences. Our customized programs provide age-appropriate service opportunities paired with a unique service-learning curriculum that fosters leadership, social-emotional growth, and a commitment to social impact. By engaging in hands-on service, youth develop lifelong skills and create lasting change in their communities. Learn more at www.pebbletossers.org.

Atlanta-based nonprofit presents prestigious National Award to Ananya Uddanti

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Youth Volunteer Receives President’s Volunteer Service Award
Atlanta-based nonprofit presents prestigious National Award to Ananya Uddanti

Atlanta, GA: Pebble Tossers, a youth development organization, awarded Ananya Uddanti the President’s Volunteer Service Award (PVSA) for her outstanding service and contributions to her community.

In 2003, the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation founded the President’s Volunteer Service Award to recognize the important role of volunteers in America’s strength and national identity. Pebble Tossers, Inc., a PVSA Certifying Organization since 2014, confers the awards to recognize the outstanding achievements of their youth volunteers.

Ananya has served in many different capacities and provided needed service in areas and with organizations closely tied to her interests and beliefs. She far exceeded the required hours for school or civic requirements set forth by the PVSA and served more than 700 hours in a two-year period. These hours provide thousands of dollars worth of value back into the community. In addition to service projects offered by Pebble Tossers, Ananya is actively involved in leadership positions with the American Red Cross, local chapters for national nonprofits, local communities, and hospitals. 

“That is amazing work,” says Jen Guynn, Pebble Tossers Founder + Executive Director. She continues, “The example of service and leadership that our PVSA recipients provide to their peers is just as important as the impact they have on the community. Pebble Tossers is proud of their accomplishments and proud to recognize Ananya on behalf of our country.”

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About Pebble Tossers

Pebble Tossers is Metro Atlanta’s top local youth service organization focused on providing families with a comprehensive path to youth development through service to others, from preschool to graduation. Customized programming empowers youth to lead by providing them with age-appropriate service opportunities infused with a unique service-learning curriculum focusing on social-emotional learning, positive youth development, social justice, and positive psychology. With Pebble Tossers, volunteers sign up, show up, and serve to create a ripple of giving in their community. For more information, visit www.pebbletossers.org.

 

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Congratulations to Pebble Tosser Sheza Merchant for being named a 20 under 20 honoree by Atlanta Intown and Reporter Newspapers

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Pebble Tossers was honored to nominate Sheza, and are so proud of her accomplishments in our community. A Pebble Tossers volunteer since 2015, Sheza has participated in and led numerous projects to help those in need worldwide. Read more about her accomplishments and the rest of these amazing young people here.

Read More about Sheza and Others

Pebble Tossers hires Rebecca Sandberg as Finance and Administration Director

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From volunteer to board president to staff, Sandberg continues a ripple of giving.

pebble tossers board of directors rebecca sandberg(Atlanta, GA, October 31, 2022)… Pebble Tossers, Atlanta’s leading youth leadership development nonprofit, has named Rebecca Sandberg as Finance and Administration Director. In this role, Sandberg will oversee all fiscal matters, including annual and long-term planning and forecasting, accounting, budgeting, and HR. She will also provide oversight on IT matters to ensure that Pebble Tossers has the right tools, systems, and technology to support a robust membership experience and a culture that promotes growth and innovation. Additionally, Sandberg will help track and identify key metrics to further the organization’s work and impact.

“Rebecca brings a passion for Pebble Tossers’ mission which sparked as she volunteered with her family. Her visionary leadership has proven invaluable to our Board of Directors. She brings a focus on data-driven decisions and a high energy level with a can-do mindset,” says Guynn. “We are excited about the future with Rebecca and her commitment to developing the next generation of servant leaders.”

Sandberg joined Pebble Tossers’ Board of Directors in 2018 and served as its President from 2019-2021. In her new role, Sandberg will report to the Founding Executive Director, Jennifer Guynn, as a critical strategic partner. She has 20+ years of diverse experience as a social sector nonprofit leader and community organizer, management consulting leader, senior leader in corporate finance, and assurance and consultative experience in a Big 4 accounting firm. Sandberg is a cross-functional collaborator across all levels of internal and external stakeholder organizations, a strategic thinker and problem solver, and a persuasive verbal and written communicator.

“I am excited to continue working with Pebble Tossers to achieve its mission to develop next-generation leaders,” said Sandberg. “My work with the Board of Directors and years of experience in both the for-profit and nonprofit sectors have given me the expertise needed to help grow the organization in a structured and strategic way.”

Kelly Weber, President of Pebble Tossers Board of Directors, said, “Rebecca understands the vision and goals and is committed to helping Pebble Tossers achieve them, a true accountability partner. This new role will allow Pebble Tossers to continue to scale and grow and to support the needs of our members, nonprofit partners, and the communities we serve.”

About Pebble Tossers

Pebble Tossers is the premier local youth service organization in Metro Atlanta focused on providing families with a comprehensive path to youth development through service to others, from preschool to graduation. Customized programming empowers youth to lead by providing them with age-appropriate service opportunities infused with a unique service-learning curriculum focusing on social-emotional learning, positive youth development, social justice, and positive psychology. With Pebble Tossers, volunteers sign up, show up, and serve to create a ripple of giving in their community.

 

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Pebble Tossers Board of Directors welcomes Tifany Gilmore and Emmie Berberick

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The 2022 board focuses on amplifying next-generation leaders
through service-learning and leadership skills.

(Atlanta, GA, October 5, 2022)…Pebble Tossers, Metro Atlanta’s leading youth development nonprofit organization, is pleased to welcome two new board members, Tifany Gilmore, VP Market Leader of Consumer Banking and Investments for Bank of America/Merrill Lynch, and Emmie Berberick, Project Manager, NCR Corporation.

“Our board is committed to expanding Pebble Tossers’ reach and influence throughout the community,” said Kelly Weber, Pebble Tossers Board President. “The experience, enthusiasm, and knowledge Tifany and Emmie bring to the board and our team will help us meet our goals and move into the next year.”

The new board members will jump in quickly with Pebble Tossers as programming offerings expand with more in-person opportunities, the third cohort of the Teen Leadership Program kicks off, and the organization begins its 14th year of empowering and equipping youth to lead through service.

“I am elated to join the Pebble Tossers Board and engage in service work from a new perspective. I hope to offer my skills and experiences to grow the organization,” says Berberick, who grew up volunteering and is committed to inspiring the next generation of youth leaders.

A committed supporter of youth and service, Gilmore shares a quote from Tony A. Gaskins Jr., “On the other side of fear is success. Don’t let fear hold you captive and keep you from your dreams. You were born to be more. Be ok with that and don’t doubt the process,” and believes this applies to youth volunteering for the first time. 

“I’m very excited to be part of Pebble Tossers, said Gilmore. “I love that the organization is  able to develop and connect youth with the community and instill the importance of serving at a young age.”

Gilmore and Berberick join a committed board of directors who include:

 

2022 Board of Directors, Pebble Tossers

Kelly Weber, Board President OneDigital
Brandy Brock, Board Vice President Google Cloud Business Solutions
Brian Sengson, Board Treasurer Bennett Thrasher
Neal Chatigny, Board Secretary WebMD
Matt Carr Amazon Web Services
Aaron Dixon Alston & Bird
Kris Manning Retired Teacher/Orton Gillingham Tutor
Elizabeth Rasberry ABB
Dana Redler H&R Block
Asher Royal Centria Healthcare
Rebecca Sandberg, Past President Management Consultant

 

About Pebble Tossers

Pebble Tossers is the premier local youth service organization in Metro Atlanta focused on providing families with a comprehensive path to youth development through service to others, from preschool to graduation. Customized programming empowers youth to lead by providing them with age-appropriate service opportunities infused with a unique service-learning curriculum focusing on social-emotional learning, positive youth development, social justice, and positive psychology. With Pebble Tossers, volunteers sign up, show up, and serve to create a ripple of giving in their community.

Click Here To Download PDF
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Pebble Tossers Announces Two Open Staff Positions

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Pebble Tossers has two available staff positions for immediate start

(Atlanta, GA, May 20, 2022)…Pebble Tossers, Atlanta’s leading youth development nonprofit organization, is growing and has announced two available staff positions with immediate start dates. The Pebble Tossers’ mission is to empower and equip youth to lead through service. Our staff is dedicated to this mission and to grow our membership in order to increase the impact our members have on our community.

The two open positions are a Volunteer + Data Coordinator and a Program Coordinator. These two staff positions will work together and with the Executive Director and Membership + Marketing Manager to fulfill Pebble Tossers’ mission and goals.

The Volunteer + Data Coordinator will focus on identifying organizational needs for volunteers, recruits them, and places them in key roles that will provide the most impact for both the volunteer and the organization. The Program Coordinator will handle the implementation of Pebble Tossers’ youth and family service programs and coordinate community outreach to partner nonprofit organizations.

Pebble Tossers embraces diversity and equal opportunity in a profound way. We are committed to building a team and community that represent a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, skills, and abilities. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. For details, requirements, and how to apply, please visit www.https://www.pebbletossers.org/join-our-team/

About Pebble Tossers

Pebble Tossers is an inclusive local youth service organization focused on providing youth and families with a comprehensive path to youth development through service to others, from preschool to graduation. Customized programming empowers youth to lead by offering resources and age-appropriate service opportunities. With Pebble Tossers, volunteers sign up, show up, and serve to create a ripple of giving in their community.

Metro Atlanta Teens Ready For Success thanks to  2021-2022 Teen Leadership Program

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Pebble Tossers announces new 2022-23 teen leadership program  application now open

 

(Atlanta, GA, May 5, 2022)…Pebble Tossers, Atlanta’s leading youth development nonprofit organization, proudly announces the culmination of its second annual Teen Leadership Program (TLP) and the launching of its third year. This year’s cohort included 28 teens representing more than 20 Metro Atlanta High Schools. These teens completed the program by participating in monthly sessions, engaging in leadership skill-building activities, and creating and executing service projects. The program will conclude this May with a joint service project with the Refugee Women’s Network. 

In line with the Pebble Tossers mission to empower and equip youth to lead through service, the TLP provides an opportunity for service-minded teens to cultivate a deeper understanding of themselves and their impact on their community and the world. 

The TLP curriculum covers personal and practical life skills such as self-awareness, self-management, growth mindset, social awareness, healthy relationship skills, and responsible decision-making skills. The scheduled activities also cover how these skills apply within the three tenets of the program: Serve, Lead, Succeed. 

The nine-month program includes in-person + virtual meetings, special guest speakers, and a service project that participants create and implement as a group. The TLP provides valuable hands-on learning experiences in the lives of these passionate young people and builds the sense of self-esteem and self-efficacy that our world needs in the leaders of tomorrow. 

Program member, Zeke D. said, “It has changed my idea of a leader by showing me that a leader doesn’t have to control what everyone else does. They have to take charge and change problems in others’ lives that are not able to take that risk or action.” 

The 2022-23 program will begin in August 2022 and continue through May 2023. When asked why rising 9th – 12th graders should apply, current member Gavi D. said, “You should definitely join because hearing from experienced leaders helps really build on your leadership skills.”

The 2022-23 TLP application process is open until July 15, 2022. The program will accept a maximum of 35 rising 9th through 12th graders. Throughout the 2022-23 school year, the selected teens will participate in eight (8) meetings, several special events, and attend presentations. As a group, they will create, develop, plan and execute a service project of their own.

“For the past thirteen years, Pebble Tossers engages youth in service to provide  experiences which develop  their leadership skills that benefit our community,” said Jennifer Guynn, Founder + Executive Director, Pebble Tossers. “Our Teen Leadership Program takes this to the next level as we target fundamental civic, social, emotional and leadership skills teens need to handle the challenges of adulthood.”

Teen Leadership Program Information

Website + Application

www.pebbletossers.org/teen

 

About Pebble Tossers

Pebble Tossers is an inclusive local youth service organization focused on providing youth and families with a comprehensive path to youth development through service to others, from preschool to graduation. Customized programming empowers youth to lead by offering resources and age-appropriate service opportunities. With Pebble Tossers, volunteers sign up, show up, and serve to create a ripple of giving in their community. 

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