The Decatur County Family Connection Collaborative board recently announced that Ronnie Burke will assume the position of coordinator in early August, which was previously held by Ami Mejia.

Mejia resigned in February to concentrate on the business she and her husband, Simon, recently began, Home Helpers.

During her six years as coordinator, many new programs were established.

“Working to improve the quality of life for children and families in Decatur County for the last six years has been a privilege for me. I am very proud of the work we have accomplished and the wheels that have been set in motion to accomplish even more,” Mejia said. “When I talked to people from across the state who praised the wonderful work happening in Decatur County, I always let them know that it could not happen without the tremendous collaboration of our partners. I will certainly miss my work in Family Connection, but I know that great things will continue to happen.”

Burke, who holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, a Master’s in Social Work and an Education Specialist degree will be retiring after 30 years in various special education positions to take over as coordinator.

“I am very excited to accept the challenge of being the Family Connections Coordinator for Decatur County. I have been very involved with Family Connections in both Decatur and Seminole counties and have seen first hand the positive impact the programs can have on families and the community. My first challenge is to continue the incredible work begun and carried out by the outgoing coordinator, Ami Mejia,” Burke said.

Burke Mejia leaves behind a great network of volunteers who are so willing to help with the array of programs sponsored by Family Connections on a daily basis. He said he would like to continue to develop programs that focus on juvenile crime, drug and gang prevention, especially with elementary-age children.

“I also believe that improving literacy in this age group prevents later problems in a number of areas,” Burke said.

The first big event Burke will assist with is the rodeo scheduled for Sept. 10 and 11.

Burke lives in Donalsonville with his wife, Susan, and they have two children, Molly Thomas of Hilton Head S.C., and Adam Burke, a student at Valdosta State University.

Burke has been involved with both the Decatur County and Seminole County Family Connection Collaborative for a number of years. He is also been involved with the Arts Council, Library Board, Relay for Life and Friendship Methodist Church in Donalsonville.

Burke’s family ties in Decatur County includes his siblings, Dr. Dean Burke, Karen Hill and Bill Burke.