In response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene on September 26, 2024, the Lake Oconee Academy (LOA) community swiftly united to support nearby communities in need. Within hours, teachers, students, and LOA families reached out to Dr. Brad Bowling, LOA Executive Director, eager to find ways to assist their neighbors. "Service learning is a crucial part of our students' educational experience," Dr. Bowling explained. "I encouraged our students to take the lead in this effort, empowering them to make a difference."
The LOA Junior Beta Club, Youth Leadership Greene, and their faculty sponsors quickly mobilized to support hurricane relief efforts, with Dr. Bowling leading the call for donations from students, parents, and families. The entire school community got involved—from the high school softball team to elementary students in Mrs. Kalie McDaniel’s class, who contributed heartfelt notes of encouragement for those affected. The initiative truly embodied a school-wide commitment to helping neighbors in need.
"The response was overwhelming," said Dr. Bowling. "Our reception areas quickly filled with donations, and we even received contributions from individuals beyond the LOA community." The following week, the Junior Beta Club sponsor, who has a personal connection to the affected area, rented a trailer and accompanied several students to deliver the supplies directly to Midland, GA.
Mrs. Morgen Gay, sponsor of LOA’s Youth Leadership Greene, delivered essential goods to the Wilkes County EMA, showcasing the collective support of the community. "Youth Leadership Greene brings together students from both LOA and Greene County High School, and it was inspiring to witness this collaboration in action," said Dr. Bowling. Both communities expressed heartfelt appreciation, sending hundreds of letters and notes filled with gratitude.
Dr. Bowling expressed his appreciation for the community's generosity, stating, "I am incredibly proud of our students and staff, and deeply grateful for the overwhelming support from everyone who contributed. It’s a true blessing to be in a position to help. Watching our students turn this generosity into meaningful action has been nothing short of inspiring."
The Lake Oconee Academy community's response to Hurricane Helene highlights the power of service learning and the values of compassion and leadership instilled in its students. Through collaborative efforts, LOA students, staff, and families have made a lasting impact on neighboring communities, demonstrating that together, they can rise to meet any challenge.