champions place news
august 2025
the Perfect Pairing: Champions Place + GSU OT
Residents Josh, Matt Sarah and Ryan with live-in GSU OT Student Kaitlyn, at the Gwinnett Stripers baseball game!
You know how some things just go together - like a hamburger, fries and a Coke? That's the best way to describe the relationship between Champions Place and Georgia State University's Department of Occupational Therapy. The partnership has blossomed in the most meaningful ways. The moment we met Karen McWathers, a Clinical Assistant Professor for the program at GSU, we knew something special was about to happen. It all started when the students from their Community-Based Practice class coordinated fun events for the residents, like Pizza Making and a Halloween party. Since then, our connection with GSU’s OT program has been nothing short of a gift to everyone at Champions Place - and it keeps getting better. But don’t just take our word for it - hear directly from some of the incredible OT students and faculty who have been a part of the journey.
“At Champion’s Place, GSU has found a unique opportunity. Our students truly love Champion’s Place. I’ve been telling students from the first time I walked in that Champion’s Place is something special. You can feel it in the air! The residents at Champions Place have taught students invaluable lessons and skills which they will carry forwards into their future careers.”
Two GSU OT students, Kaitlyn and Keanah live at Champions Place, receiving free rent in exchange for working on staff providing oversight at Champions Place.
Residents Josh, Matt and Ryan with live-in GSU OT Student Keanah and GSU OT student/caregiver, Madison having dinner together!
“One of my favorite parts about being a caregiver is trying to encourage the residents to have autonomy and independence. I have gained a new perspective to challenges that they face when going out into the community.”
Resident Alison with live-in GSU OT student's Kaitlyn and Keanah.
“This experience has had a profound impact on my journey toward becoming an Occupational Therapist. I felt welcome and at home from the very beginning and over time, I have built life-long relationships with both the residents and the staff.”
Lauren and other GSU OT students enjoy class at Champions Place!
“I had the chance to volunteer at Champions Place during our Community-Based Practice class last fall - that experience made a lasting, positive impact on me, so this summer I started working as a caregiver—and it’s already been such an amazing experience”
“Living alongside the residents has opened my eyes to the critical role accessibility plays in promoting independence and giving individuals a sense of autonomy.”