On January 31st I turned twenty years old, and on that same day I left the comfort of Tallahassee for the experience of Colquitt, Georgia. Colquitt, Georgia, is a small town in the southwestern part of Georgia, and it has quite the story to tell. A lot of people assume that for a community to be lively and exciting it must be in a large city, or other urban area. Colquitt, Georgia disproves that assumption with simply its murals alone. This town was full of history, rich storytelling potential to tap into, and the passion necessary to form a healthy, creative community. I went to Colquitt not sure of what I might discover, but I left with a rekindled flame for theater, a better understanding of the value of storytelling in community building, and valuable connections with others who share these interests.

The weekend started out with a fantastic performance by the cast of a lovely show commonly called “Swamp Gravy.” I think it is important to mention that the members of this talented cast are residents of this small town and volunteer their time to make Swamp Gravy possible . Swamp Gravy recently celebrated its 20th anniversary.

The next morning my section of the group was delighted with an opportunity to learn the power of storytelling from first-hand experience. We gathered stories from within our group, sorted them out, and then prepared them in a theatrical way synonymous to Swamp Gravy, but of course nowhere near as good. It was so powerful, and honoring to experience Swamp Gravy and then put on our own show on that same stage.

Even though the conference only lasted a few days, the skills of storytelling, and the connections I formed at this conference will be long lasting. I have been learning a lot lately about community organizing, planning, and macro Social Work Practice, however nothing I have learned from a text book could ever compete with the knowledge and wisdom I received from the speakers and inspirers of Colquitt, Georgia and Swamp Gravy. The effects of this project on the community are massive and astounding. According to an article by a local Georgia newspaper called “OnlineAthens”, Swamp Gravy’s economic impact, as of 2006, is roughly $2 million a year (Online Athens, 2006).

That estimate makes Swamp Gravy one of the county’s top industries!

I am so grateful for the opportunity  to travel to Colquitt and for the connections I formed. I met some inspiring men and women from all walks of life, and with aspiring passions for improved community and creativity. I already miss the joy of Colquitt, with its intricate murals and shopping square, the beautiful hotel, and Cotton Hall; this small town that has such a huge voice, and a passion for sharing the stories that make it special. I hope to go back again soon for a show considering how close it is to Tallahassee. I want to say thank you to the people who played a role in helping me find my way to Colquitt. Without the hard work of Margaret Ashmore I would have missed out on a grand experience. In addition, I am grateful for the kindness and generosity of Joy Jinks, and the company of Richard Geer, along with the other residents of Colquitt. I am also so appreciative for the financial support of Guy and Delores Spearman, Doby Flowers, and anonymous donors. I would not have been given this opportunity if not for the generosity and support of these great people. I won’t soon forget the experience or knowledge I gained from this trip. I know that all good things must come to an end, and the conference ended not so that we could be saddened, but so that we might go back to our own communities and apply everything we learned.

About the Author: Jonathan Nguyen is a senior BSW student in the FSU College of Social Work from Melbourne, Florida. He is interested in community outreach, working with various populations, and the use of arts in social work practice.

Reference: Folk Lore Plays Save Town’s Economy. Online Athens. Retrieved February 26, 2013, from onlineathens.com/stories/091806/news_20060918030.shtml.