Three local and regional charities were recently recognized for their significant contributions to the residents of North Georgia and beyond. These awards are the first financial grants provided by the newly created Southern Magnolia Charities (SMC) organization. One of its primary fundraisers is the annual Milton Tour of Homes that began in 2016 and is now under the leadership of SMC. It also welcomes donations from individuals, companies, and organizations.

This year, SMC chose Dream Weavers of Georgia, Milton First Responders Foundation, and Canine Assistants to receive the proceeds from the 2018 Milton Tour of Homes. Dream Weavers of Georgia is a non-profit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of foster children. Milton First Responders Foundation works to strengthen the partnership between the citizens of Milton and their first responders (police and firefighters) by providing critical resources to those who make Milton a safe place to live, work, and visit. Canine Assistants is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating people and dogs, so they may enhance the lives of one another.