The Georgia Municipal Association, in partnership with GeorgiaForward, has successfully concluded its Community Research Meeting session in Valdosta. Over three days, the session brought together dynamic young leaders from across the state to develop innovative solutions for community challenges.

Participants engaged in comprehensive research, conducted site visits, and participated in collaborative discussions. Highlights included tours of the Valdosta Regional Airport General Aviation and the Walmart Dairy Facility Site currently under construction, providing valuable insights into local economic development and infrastructure projects.

On Wednesday, June 12, the City of Valdosta hosted a delightful dinner at Berta's Pizza Kitchen, fostering networking opportunities between the Young Gamechangers and city officials to discuss initial ideas. The productive atmosphere continued on Thursday, June 13, with a working dinner hosted by SGMC Health, where participants delved deeper into their group challenge questions alongside healthcare professionals.

The Young Gamechangers presented their Top 5 Ideas for addressing the community's needs, demonstrating their dedication, creativity, and strategic thinking.

“We are thrilled to have hosted such a talented group of young leaders,” said Mayor Scott James Matheson. “Their fresh perspectives and innovative ideas are exactly what our community needs to move forward. We are grateful for their hard work and are excited to see the positive impact of their proposals.”

Sadie Krawczyk, Managing Director of GeorgiaForward & Placemaking at Georgia Municipal Association, remarked, “The Young Gamechangers program exemplifies the power of collaborative problem-solving and community engagement. This session in Valdosta has highlighted the incredible potential of our state’s future leaders to effect meaningful change.”

The Young Gamechangers program, an initiative of the Georgia Municipal Association’s GeorgiaForward, aims to unite diverse and dynamic young professionals to address pressing issues in communities across Georgia. The Valdosta session marks another successful chapter in this ongoing effort to inspire and implement positive change.

The culmination of the Georgia Municipal Association’s GeorgiaForward Young Gamechangers program in Valdosta will be marked by a final presentation on Thursday, October 10th, from 1:00 p.m. to 3 p.m. This significant event will take place at the Rainwater Conference Center and is free and open to the public. All community members are invited to attend and witness the innovative solutions proposed by these young leaders.