Georgia Knows Media is a media education program created by SPJ Georgia, the Georgia chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists. It is an interactive training that teaches participants how to evaluate news sources, recognize misinformation and understand how local journalism works.

Why did SPJ Georgia create this program?

The chapter created Georgia Knows Media to help Georgians combat false and misleading information and to build trust between journalists and the communities they cover at a time when the media landscape is increasingly crowded with AI-generated content and false information.

Who leads the sessions?

Sessions are led by volunteer facilitators — journalists, journalism educators and certified community members — using a toolkit and other resources developed for the program.

What happens after I complete the training?

Attendees who complete the training receive a certificate and are equipped to lead their own Georgia Knows Media sessions for friends, family members and other organizations, extending the program’s reach beyond each initial session.

Who can request a session?

The training is designed for a wide range of community audiences, including student and youth organizations, Rotary and civic clubs, church and faith groups, and homeowners associations. Any interested group is welcome to request a session.

Is there a cost?

No. Sessions are offered free of charge.

Can sessions be held online?

Yes. Sessions can be scheduled online or in person, giving groups across the state flexible access regardless of location.

How long does a session take?

About an hour.

How do we schedule a session for our group?

Email spjgeorgia@gmail.com to discuss available dates. Because facilitators are volunteers, the chapter asks groups to plan ahead and request sessions in advance.

Is there an upcoming session we can attend to learn more?

Yes. SPJ Georgia is holding an open Georgia Knows Media session on Zoom from 6 to 7:30 p.m. EDT Thursday, Oct. 15, to kick off the program’s statewide expansion. The session includes time for questions and answers about the program and its materials. Email spjgeorgia@gmail.com to register and receive the Zoom link.

Who started this program?

The community rollout of Georgia Knows Media was initiated by SPJ Georgia Past President Katja Ridderbusch and made possible through a grant from the SPJ Foundation.

Is SPJ Georgia looking for funding or sponsors?

Yes. The chapter is seeking additional funding and sponsors to expand the program beyond its current phase, allowing it to train more volunteer facilitators and reach more communities across Georgia. Organizations and individuals interested in sponsoring the program’s expansion can email spjgeorgia@gmail.com.

What is SPJ Georgia?

SPJ Georgia is the Georgia chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists, founded in 2014. The chapter supports journalists across the state by connecting them with resources and each other. Members represent all mediums of the profession and commit to a shared Code of Ethics published by the national organization.