Podcast 256 – Chuck Singleton 5K Run – Get Moving for the Movie

The Legacy and Revival of Doraville: A Community Story

Doraville, Georgia, is a small city with a rich history, now undergoing a renaissance thanks to a group of dedicated former residents who are passionate about preserving its legacy. In a recent What’s Up Dunwoody podcast episode, Matt Weber spoke with three remarkable women—Caroline Kamak, Lisa Edmondson, and Karen Ketchum—who are at the forefront of this effort. Their shared history and deep-rooted love for Doraville have culminated in an exciting project: a documentary titled Made in Doraville, accompanied by a community 5K race to support its production.

A Nostalgic Look Back

Caroline Kamak, raised in Doraville and a proud graduate of Sequoia High School’s class of ’84, is one of the driving forces behind this project. Caroline’s connection to Doraville is deeply personal. Not only does her mother still reside there, but Caroline also returned to her alma mater as a teacher, instilling in her students the same sense of community she cherished growing up. Lisa Edmondson, a class of ’86 alumna, joined the project after realizing her creative skills could contribute significantly. Meanwhile, Karen Ketchum, the “baby” of the group from the class of ’87, provides the structure and project management expertise needed to bring their ambitious vision to life.

The podcast episode delved into the group’s shared experiences in Doraville, reminiscing about a time when the town was a tight-knit, predominantly white suburb. General Motors (GM) played a significant role in the community, providing jobs and a sense of identity. However, the city’s demographic has shifted dramatically over the years, transforming into a vibrant international hub.

The Birth of Made in Doraville

The idea for Made in Doraville originated from Danny Howron, a childhood friend of Caroline’s. He believed that the stories and experiences of those who grew up in Doraville were worth documenting. The documentary aims to capture the essence of the community, from its heyday as a booming industrial town centered around the GM plant to its current state as a culturally diverse enclave. The film will explore the city’s transition over the years, highlighting the stories of its residents and their deep connection to the area.

One of the most poignant moments in the podcast was when Caroline discussed the inspiration behind the 5K race. The event is named in honor of Chuck Singleton, their beloved elementary school PE teacher and a civil rights pioneer. Chuck Singleton, who made an indelible impact on his students, passed away unexpectedly, leaving the community in mourning. The 5K, aptly named “Chuck Singleton Get Movin’ for the Movie,” serves as both a tribute to his legacy and a fundraiser for the documentary.

Doraville’s Bright Future

Doraville is on the cusp of significant growth, with the redevelopment of the old GM site into a massive film production studio, now known as “The Assembly.” This redevelopment is a central theme of the Made in Doraville project, as it represents both the physical and cultural transformation of the city. The podcast guests expressed their excitement about the potential this project holds for Doraville’s future, believing it could bring new opportunities and renewed interest in the area.

The 5K race is scheduled for June 29th at The Assembly and is expected to attract both locals and visitors. The race route will take participants through key areas of Doraville, providing a unique experience that blends the old with the new. The event is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of Doraville’s history and a look forward to its future.

Participants will start and finish the race at the Doraville City Park, located within The Assembly grounds. The park, which features building facades used for movie productions, will serve as the backdrop for the event. The race will pass by historical landmarks, including the old GM plant, and venture into parts of Doraville that many might not have explored. After the race, there will be a family-friendly party with food trucks, vendors, and activities for children, including a bounce house and a fireworks display.

Supporting Made in Doraville

The documentary and 5K are grassroots efforts driven by the passion and dedication of former residents who have remained closely connected to Doraville. The group has already made significant progress, establishing an LLC and securing a fiscal sponsor, From the Heart Productions, which assists filmmakers in raising funds. They have also connected with a producer with Netflix experience to help guide the project.

The podcast guests emphasized that the documentary is not just about Doraville—it’s about a way of life that many communities across the country can relate to. It aims to capture the spirit of a time before the digital age, when neighbors knew each other, children roamed freely, and community bonds were strong.

Get Involved

For those interested in supporting Made in Doraville, there are several ways to get involved. Participating in the 5K is one way to contribute directly to the film’s production. Additionally, the team is actively seeking vendors for the event, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the Doraville community and raise awareness for local businesses.

The documentary is more than just a film—it’s a labor of love, a tribute to a community that has shaped the lives of its residents in countless ways. As Doraville continues to evolve, Made in Doraville will stand as a testament to its rich history and the enduring spirit of those who call it home.

For more information about the film and the 5K race, visit madeindoraville.com. Whether you’re a former resident, a current local, or just someone interested in learning more about this unique community, there’s something in Doraville’s story for everyone.