Macon It

In this episode of Macon It, we sit down with Wanzina Jackson, Director of Economic and Community Development for Macon-Bibb County, to talk about the work that’s helping transform lives across our community. With more than 20 years of service to Macon, Wanzina shares how the ECD department partners with organizations to support low- to moderate-income households through housing, resources, and opportunity.

As we celebrate National Community Development Week (April 6–10), we also take time to recognize and thank the organizations that make Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) projects possible. Their work, alongside Macon-Bibb County, helps create stronger neighborhoods, expand opportunity, and improve quality of life across our community.

In this episode of Macon It, we sit down with Jerry Battle, Macon-Bibb County’s new Neighborhood Program Coordinator, to talk about his role as a boots-on-the-ground connector between residents and local government. Jerry shares how he’s working directly with neighborhoods to listen, build trust, and make sure every voice is heard.

We discuss the importance of neighborhood pride, how stronger communication leads to real results, and what this new role means for the future of community engagement across Macon-Bibb. It’s a conversation about meeting people where they are and building a stronger Macon… together.

In this episode of Macon It, we sit down with Hannah Theus, Director of Marketing and Fulfillment for the International Cherry Blossom Festival, to talk about one of Macon’s most beloved traditions. Known as the Cherry Blossom Capital of the World, Macon transforms each spring into a massive pink celebration that draws visitors from across the country...and around the globe.

Hannah shares the story behind how the festival first began, what makes it so special for the community, and gives us a preview of some of the exciting events happening during this year’s festival, March 20–29. From family-friendly activities to iconic Macon traditions, it’s all part of the pink party that takes over the city each spring.

Plan your Cherry Blossom activities and learn more at: https://cherryblossom.com/

In this episode of Macon It, we sit down with Kathryn Dennis, President of the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, to talk about the power of local philanthropy and what it means to invest in our own community. Kathryn shares how the Foundation partners with donors and organizations to strengthen Central Georgia, from supporting the Macon Violence Prevention initiative to scholarship funds, Downtown Challenge Grants, and On The Table; a community-wide conversation designed to bring voices together and spark ideas.

It’s a look at how generosity, collaboration, and civic pride are helping shape a stronger future for Macon and the surrounding region.

In this episode of Macon It, we’re joined by Natalie Bouyett, Executive Director of the Macon-Bibb County Affordable Housing Fund, to talk about how the community is tackling housing challenges head-on. Natalie shares updates on current projects, the vision behind the Affordable Housing Fund, and how Macon-Bibb County is setting a new standard for affordable housing across Georgia. It’s a conversation about growth, opportunity, and building a stronger future where more families have a place to call home.