City of Douglas, The Hope Initiative and Hope for Coffee to host Dedication and Celebration of Sims Park on Tuesday, March 17
DOUGLAS, Ga. – The City of Douglas, in partnership with The Hope Initiative and Hope for Coffee, invites the community to join us for the Dedication and Celebration of Sims Park on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. The ceremony will be held at Sims Park, located at 101 Dream Maker’s Court, just off Alunza Street.
This event marks a powerful moment in Coffee County’s ongoing recovery from Hurricane Helene and reflects what can be accomplished when compassion, leadership, and community come together with purpose.
“We are incredibly proud to celebrate the completion of this residential development and for the families who will soon call it home,” said Mayor Tony Paulk. “This project represents far more than construction. It represents hope restored, stability rebuilt, and a promise kept to our residents that we would not leave anyone behind.”
In July 2025, The Hope Initiative, Hope for Coffee, and community partners broke ground on a vision to bring safe, stable housing to families impacted by the storm. In just a few short months, that vision became reality. Today, nine new homes stand ready to serve as a foundation for symbol of new beginnings. Final landscaping and road paving are currently underway and will be completed in time for the dedication.
Sims Park was developed to support residents who lost their homes or were displaced by Hurricane Helene, while also providing workforce housing for those who came to Douglas to assist with recovery efforts. The development’s main street, Dream Makers Court, will honor the memory of Mr. Lee Sims, whose life and legacy continue to inspire service and generosity within the community.
Pastor Stephen Boyken, Founder and President of The Hope Initiative, shared that Sims Park represents more than just rebuilding homes—it represents building hope. “Over and over again we have seen what happens when people come together to make a difference,” said Pastor Boyken. “Lives are changed, communities are rebuilt, and healing takes places as faith is put into action. We thank God for his kindness as we see the pieces and people of Coffee County being put back together. Sims Park is a beautiful reminder that even after a devastating loss, God can redeem our story.”
The City of Douglas is proud to stand alongside The Hope Initiative, Hope for Coffee, volunteers, donors, contractors, and community members who made this milestone possible. This dedication represents more than the completion of a project. It represents resilience. It represents partnership. It represents the heart of Douglas. Most importantly, it represents a renewed sense of home for families who have endured tremendous loss. Together, we are continuing the work of rebuilding not only structures, but lives.
Community members are encouraged to attend and help celebrate this meaningful step forward. For more information about the Dedication and Celebration Ceremony, please contact Hope for Coffee at (912) 388-0404.
Copyright 2026 South Georgia News. All rights reserved.
