By Jennifer Colosimo
Brooke Vaughan’s lifelong desire to help marginalized individuals found its focus when she learned about the Newnan Emergency Shelter Team (NEST) warming shelter. Her heart led her to volunteer, quickly taking the helm for two seasons and expanding its reach to local churches. Witnessing the year-round need for support, the people behind NEST envisioned ReStart—a comprehensive initiative to aid the unhoused beyond seasonal shelter. This dream materialized in 2024, and with Vaughan’s passion and leadership, it was a natural progression for her to step into the role of director, continuing her unwavering commitment to the community.
What drives you about this kind of work?
Brooke Vaughan: I was raised in a low-income, single-parent household where we relied on resources such as food stamps, Medicaid, free school lunches and the generosity of others. Now, when I serve individuals facing similar hardships, I don’t see just another person in need; I see myself, my sister and the resilient woman who fought every day to provide for us, my mom. I am deeply grateful for the support I received along the way, and it drives my passion to help others who are seeking a way forward.
Why is ReStart so important for this community?
BV: Our community faces a shortage of affordable housing and an increasing number of individuals experiencing homelessness, many of whom are unaware of the available resources. For those motivated to improve their circumstances, ReStart plays a crucial role in assessing individual needs and connecting people with the resources necessary to help them achieve long-term self-sufficiency.
What is one of your favorite examples of ReStart’s impact?
BV: We recently supported a determined 20-something man, homeless and living behind Goodwill, through a free 7-week construction training course. We provided transportation, housing, mental health support, medical care, food and clothing until he successfully graduated, secured a job with a local construction company and began getting back on his feet.
What happens next for ReStart?
BV: Our long-term goal is to become the resource that we currently are searching for. We will aim to provide transitional housing, not just a shelter. Our focus will be on offering a stable, supportive environment that helps individuals and families make a lasting transition to self-sufficiency, rather than simply providing temporary refuge. Through tailored services and resources, we will empower people to rebuild their lives and move toward long-term stability.
Where can people find you most in Newnan?
BV: I can be found at Seavy Street Park or Sprayberry Road Park with my toddler almost daily, having coffee at Leaf and Bean or eating at Lilah Grey or Sprayberry’s (a Newnan classic!) on Wednesdays. I also love to shop thrift stores like Renew or Goodwill.
