Gemstones Academy and COMPASS, a nonprofit organization founded by Alisha Byrd and Alex Clark, celebrated their one-year anniversary on Jan. 16 with a proclamation by Mayor Karen Alexander declaring that day as Gemstones Academy and COMPASS Day.

The festivities included a brief celebration planned by the parents and youth who are enrolled in the program. The group concluded the celebration at the square on West Innes Street with a ribbon cutting ceremony at their Adopt A Highway sign — which includes the names Gemstones Academy and COMPASS — with family, friends, the mayor and Councilman David Post.

The mission of Gemstones Academy and COMPASS is to provide youth with the skill sets to reach their maximum potential by unwrapping their hidden gifts, talents and abilities with a COMPASS which stands for Confident, Optimistic, Motivated, Persistent, Assertive, Studious and Successful.

Gemstones Academy and COMPASS are accepting applications for 2016 until Feb. 6. A one–time enrollment fee of $50 is required upon registration. Sponsors are welcome to assist those who are experiencing financial hardships. The weekend celebration concluded on Sunday when Byrd and Clark received dual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. humanitarian Service Awards at Mt. Zion Baptist Church for their empowerment and leadership programs.

For additional information contact Byrd at 704-762-1445 or Clark at 980-643-8487 or visit www.gemstonesacademy.com .