Atlanta, GA
Matthew Garbett moved to Atlanta in 2001. Shortly thereafter, he started teaching Freshman Composition at Georgia State University. They began volunteering at a local center that helps unhoused individuals find jobs. In 2009, they moved back home to Tybee to run their father’s campaign for city council. Matthew returned to Atlanta in 2010 and became president of the Fourth Ward Neighbors neighborhood association in 2011, where they organized cleanups, started fundraisers, and were involved in the rapid change of the neighborhood.
In 2012, Matthew founded Freedom Barkway, a dog park on unused public land. In 2013, they moved to Adair Park, where they have served as secretary, treasurer, vice president, and chair of both the transportation and land use committees. He co-founded the annual Porches and Pies fundraiser and organized bike rides to introduce people to the area. For the last seven years, they have been managing a locally owned grocery store that connects the community.
He also co-founded ThreadATL in 2015, which advocates for good urbanism. In addition, Matthew has been involved with local arts organizations, including Flux and gloATL.
Ambassador story coming soon!