08/05/2026
Girl Scout Silver Award Project Shines a Light on Senior Needs
At the Tuesday, August 4, 2026, Board of Commissioners meeting, 14-year-old Creekview High School freshman Emma Loeding delivered an inspiring educational presentation titled "Let's Brighten the Golden Years Together." As part of her Girl Scout Silver Award project, Emma also drafted a Senior Proclamation, which was proudly read aloud by Chairman Johnston during the meeting.
During her presentation, Emma shared eye-opening statistics about the challenges facing older adults in Georgia. She explained that Georgia ranks 29th out of 50 states in declining senior health and has the third-highest senior poverty rate in the nation. While these statistics highlight significant challenges, Emma also emphasized that hope and help are available by sharing valuable local resources and services designed to support seniors.
As part of her project, Emma created a QR code that allows community members to purchase much-needed items for local seniors. She also established donation boxes at the Senior Center and several other community locations, making it easy for residents to contribute essential items to seniors in need.
Emma's passion for helping seniors began after witnessing her mother pay for a senior citizen's groceries when the woman did not have enough money to cover her purchase. Later, while delivering food to seniors, Emma saw firsthand the challenges many older adults face every day. Those experiences inspired her to take action and create a meaningful project through her Girl Scout Silver Award that would raise awareness and provide tangible support for seniors in our community.
Emma's dedication, compassion, and leadership are making a real difference. We are grateful for her advocacy on behalf of our senior community and commend her for using her voice and talents to brighten the golden years of others.
Thank you, Emma, for your outstanding service and for reminding us all that one person truly can make a difference.