Murphy-Harpst Children's Centers has served vulnerable and suffering children for more than a century, supported by congregations across Georgia. About 20% of its operating budget comes from private donations, including the annual Murphy-Harpst Special Offering (launching July 19), which funds therapies not covered by state funding. Georgia's foster care system serves nearly twice as many children as there are licensed foster homes, and the state relies on Murphy-Harpst for adolescents with higher clinical needs.
In the past year, the community-based Evolve Initiative expanded to serve 28 youth, with nearly 90% showing measurable behavioral-health improvement. The Cedartown campus serves about 80 youth and opened a second Qualified Residential Treatment Program, achieving an 81% success rate transitioning youth to family or other settings. The clinical team's MindVox model integrates music and songwriting with Cognitive Behavior Therapy to help youth process trauma. President & CEO: Michael S. Merritt.