On Saturday, May 11, Leadership Geauga showcased the power of community service as its alumni and the Signature Adult Class of 2024 came together to make a difference in the community.
At Next Step, a community-based program that empowers victimized youth on their path to self-sufficiency, Leadership Geauga alumni demonstrated their commitment to improving lives by undertaking a project to spruce up its facilities. The alumni team tackled various tasks, including fixing drawers, removing wallpaper borders, scrubbing and painting walls and windows, patching drywall, and installing a new microwave. This transformational effort was made possible through the generous donations of materials from Sherwin Williams in Chardon and the sponsorship support of Mapledale Farm Inc. and Payne and Tompkins Design-Renovations.
Andrea Pollock, Director of Next Step, expressed her gratitude, stating, “Leadership Geauga volunteers did an amazing job freshening up the Next Step house! The residents are so thrilled with the results, as is the staff. Geauga County is so generous and Leadership Geauga is a perfect example of how to put that generosity into action.”
Simultaneously, the Leadership Geauga Signature Adult Class of 2024 embarked on a mission to preserve history and enhance community spaces at Century Village in Burton. With twenty-two enthusiastic members, the class engaged in activities such as cleaning artifacts, dusting and vacuuming historic houses, revitalizing wood furniture, and staging artifacts at various locations within the village.
Stefanie O’Connor, Curator of the Geauga County Historical Society & Century Village Museum, praised the group’s efforts: “Your visit on Saturday, May 11, 2024, made a significant difference here at Geauga County Historical Society & Century Village Museum. The houses you cleaned, including The Cook House, The Hickox, The Maple Museum, The Apothecary, and The Hitchcock, now look pristine and welcoming for our upcoming Civil War Encampment event. Your hard work and dedication are truly appreciated. Thank you for choosing us for your 2024 Class Project.”
The success of Leadership Geauga’s Annual Service Day is a testament to the power of collaboration, generosity, and leadership within the community. As Geauga County continues to thrive, initiatives like these serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all.