For more than 138 years, Carrie Steele-Pitts Home has served vulnerable children and youth in Atlanta. Two years ago, the historic organization entered a new chapter, shifting from its historic campus model to a statewide approach focused on youth development, permanency, and independent living.

Founded in 1888 by Carrie Steele, a formerly enslaved woman who began caring for abandoned children near Atlanta’s railroad yards, the organization has helped support more than 20,000 young people throughout its history. Today, Carrie Steele-Pitts Home continues that legacy by serving approximately 700 youth statewide each year through programs designed to help young people build life skills, strengthen relationships with supportive adults, and prepare for successful futures across Georgia.

Current programs include the Independent Living Program, which helps youth develop the practical skills needed to transition successfully into adulthood. Through the Georgia RYSE Life Skills Program, young people gain training in financial literacy, employment readiness, and everyday life skills that support long-term independence.

The organization also offers TAGS-BRAVE (Teen Adoption and Guardianship Support – Building Relationships and Valuable Experiences), a program supporting teens ages 13–18 who are adopted, in guardianship, or in DHS permanent custody with adoptive status. TAGS-BRAVE creates a welcoming community where teens can build lasting relationships through interactive activities, personal growth workshops, and guest speakers. The program explores topics such as trauma, grief and loss, identity, emotional well-being, community involvement, academic success, and future planning while providing a safe and supportive space for youth to connect with peers who share similar experiences.

While the organization’s model has evolved over time, its mission remains rooted in the same commitment Carrie Steele demonstrated more than a century ago: ensuring that young people have the support, stability, and opportunities they need to thrive.

Community members, partners, and supporters interested in learning more about Carrie Steele-Pitts Home or supporting its work with youth across Georgia are encouraged to visit www.csph.org to learn more about the organization and ways to get involved.