Community initiatives in Savannah promote engagement and support local entrepreneurs.
Savannah is experiencing a wave of entrepreneurship and community engagement with numerous initiatives aimed at improving local services. Highlights include empowering small businesses, enhancing food access through innovative programs, and the revitalization of local libraries. The Live Oak Public Libraries have launched a strategic plan to boost literacy while local entrepreneurs are making strides in various sectors. This collective effort demonstrates a strong commitment to addressing the community’s needs and fostering a collaborative environment across the city.
Savannah is witnessing a surge of innovation and community-driven initiatives as local entrepreneurs and organizations strive to make impactful changes through various businesses and services. Notable developments are emerging across several sectors, including libraries, food access, and small businesses, reflecting a growing commitment to enhance community engagement and support local needs.
The Live Oak Public Libraries (LOPL) recently debuted its new reading mascots at the St. Patrick’s Day parade, generating excitement among residents. Executive Director Lola DeWitt highlighted the significance of community validation for LOPL’s ongoing initiatives. Operating across Chatham, Effingham, and Liberty counties, LOPL has 16 library locations dedicated to serving community members.
Since taking on the role of Executive Director in 2022, DeWitt has introduced a comprehensive 2025-2030 Strategic Plan—the first for the library in 16 years. Her strategies emphasize early childhood language programs designed to prepare children for kindergarten and foster literacy skills among young readers.
The library system also aims to implement core philosophies focused on consistency, customer service, and professional development among its staff. In a significant renovation, the historic Carnegie Library on Henry Street is set to be revitalized for its 110th anniversary, originally established to serve Black patrons with funding from the Carnegie Corporation.
Three major library construction projects are underway, including plans for a new library at Waters Avenue and Eisenhower Drive, the ongoing design phase for the Pooler Library, and a new Rincon Library design initiative. A Town Hall meeting is scheduled for April 2 to discuss preliminary architectural plans for the Rincon Library.
Several entrepreneurs in Savannah are making headlines as they grow their businesses while focusing on community empowerment. Michelle Peth founded Beettan, a small sunless tanning company that uses naturally derived beet extract. Since its launch, Beettan has gained national popularity and has successfully trained over 500 women in spray-tanning techniques. The company also offers business coaching and certification programs, reflecting Peth’s commitment to empowering women.
Emmy Davidian, the founder of Tribe + Temple, specializes in unique, laser-cut acrylic jewelry that draws inspiration from her diverse heritage. After expanding from local pop-ups to a retail space in the Starland District, Davidian saw her wholesale operations increase from 20 to 110 stores worldwide. With a master’s degree in accessory design, she aims to develop Tribe + Temple into a travel and resort brand.
Another entrepreneurial success story comes from Maggie Lilly, who created Party of Hive Granola from a homemade recipe. Following the acquisition of a cottage foods license in 2020 and a commercial permit in 2023, Lilly’s production capacity has grown to 150 pounds of granola per week. Her product, focused on healthy, low-sugar ingredients, is now sold in approximately 20 stores.
Asia Harold of the Forsyth Farmers’ Market is dedicated to improving food access for low-income communities through innovative programs like the 912 Food Farmacy. The Farmers’ Market collaborates with local health clinics to provide patients with prescriptions for fresh produce aimed at addressing diet-related health issues. Recently, the market moved to a new headquarters which now includes a corner store, facilitating mid-week access to fresh food.
The Forsyth Farmers’ Market prioritizes local vendors and is committed to removing barriers to accessing fresh produce in Savannah, emphasizing sustainable practices and community support.
Recognizing the need for modernized services, LOPL’s Regional Board of Trustees has designated it as a Book Sanctuary Library, promoting First Amendment freedoms. LOPL is situated to evolve into a civic hub and a safe community space, adapting its traditional library roles to meet emerging community needs effectively.
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