Columbia County’s Community Connections: nearly 30 years connecting families to services

County Manager Scott Johnson interviewed Tika Jenkins, executive director of Columbia County Community Connections, on the County Compass podcast to highlight the nonprofit’s role as the county’s “family connection.” Johnson opened the episode by naming Community Connections as the show’s focus; Jenkins described the organization as one of a statewide network that brings local stakeholders together to address family needs.

Jenkins told listeners that Community Connections began as a local collaborative and later incorporated. “We became incorporated, many years ago so that we operate as a 501(c)(3),” she said, tracing the initiative’s roots to the Georgia Family Connection Partnership. Jenkins emphasized the nonprofit’s purpose: coordinating services, convening partners and helping families access free programs in Columbia County. She said the organization serves families across socioeconomic lines and explicitly noted that need exists in “pockets” despite the county’s general affluence.

The interview outlined how the organization works with churches, local agencies and county departments to deliver services. Jenkins singled out partnerships—such as with the county and local fire department boot drives—that provide flexible support. She also discussed staffing roles, noting a development director who pursues grants and a finance director who stretches limited funds. Jenkins encouraged residents to visit the nonprofit’s website for contact information and program details.

The conversation placed Community Connections in historical and operational context and concluded with Johnson thanking Jenkins and urging listeners to engage and volunteer. The episode emphasized sustained county–nonprofit cooperation and the organization’s near three-decade presence in Columbia County.