About Us
How It Started
Founded in 1989 by Dr. Morris Brown, Ash Tree began as a response to the urgent need for a community-based, structured rehabilitative program for juvenile offenders. The goal was to provide a meaningful alternative to the criminal justice system—diverting youth from the often harmful effects of institutionalization and guiding them toward personal and academic success.
Over the years, Ash Tree has evolved to meet the changing needs of the community. While continuing to serve youth through supervision and life-skills development, the organization now places a strong emphasis on literacy and education. Our signature Interactive Literacy program uses creative tools—such as LEGO building, comic book creation, and video games—to make reading and writing engaging and accessible for all learners. Combined with our personalized tutoring services, we help students strengthen academic foundations while building confidence and imagination.
To date, Ash Tree has served over 9,700 youth and their families, delivering more than 20 different community programs across Chatham County and, when needed, in surrounding areas including Bryan, Richmond, Evans, Effingham, and Liberty counties.
Dr. Morris Brown

Executive Director, Founder
The Transition & What's Happening Now
As Ash Tree evolved, so did our vision for long-term impact. What began as a community-based intervention program for juvenile offenders has grown into a broader educational mission focused on prevention, empowerment, and academic achievement.
To better serve youth and families, Ash Tree expanded its offerings to include innovative literacy-based programs designed to engage students in creative and meaningful ways. Our flagship Interactive Literacy program uses hands-on activities like LEGO building, comic book creation, and literacy-focused video games to help students build reading and writing skills in a fun and relevant environment. These experiences are further supported by personalized tutoring services that meet learners where they are and help them succeed both in school and in life.
This transformation also led to the founding of Savannah Legacy Academy, a nonprofit private institution committed to providing a high-quality, non-traditional K–12 education. Rooted in the same values of equity, creativity, and community, Savannah Legacy Academy offers a full academic curriculum alongside specialized courses in literacy, character development, and even in-school golf education—continuing Ash Tree’s legacy in a formal academic setting.
