VALDOSTA — The Young Gamechangers from GeorgiaForward are stepping up to help Valdosta address some of its most pressing issues. The group consists of young leaders and minds that take on community and economic development issues.
GeorgiaForward assembles a team of Gamechangers each year that focuses on a different city’s needs.
In Valdosta’s case, this year’s group will tackle four critical challenge questions, aiming to develop innovative solutions that will benefit the community. Their efforts will culminate in a presentation at the Rainwater Conference Center on Oct. 10.
In a recent meeting with city officials, the Young Gamechangers revealed the four challenge questions they want to solve.
The first challenge question focuses on green infrastructure. The Young Gamechangers are exploring ways Valdosta can create and maintain sustainable parks, trails, and green spaces for all community members. They aim to enhance the city’s natural beauty while promoting environmental sustainability and recreational opportunities.
Valdosta’s economic development is also in the spotlight. As the city attracts new industries, the Gamechangers are working on strategies to retain talent, build workforce capacity, and support existing businesses. Their solutions aim to ensure that the city’s growth benefits all residents and the economy.
Improving neighborhood-based, mixed-use redevelopment is another key focus.
The Gamechangers are examining how Valdosta can support redevelopment in the Barack Obama, Patterson overpass, Ashley Street, and Griffin Avenue corridors.
The final challenge is strengthening community togetherness. The Young Gamechangers are devising ways to bridge gaps among various demographic groups within Valdosta-Lowndes County. They aim to enhance social connections and foster a more united and supportive community.
While the Young Gamechangers are developing their ideas, the city will continue to provide local information and resources. The Gamechangers will formulate three big ideas for each challenge question for the Oct. 10 presentation. This presentation will also cover action steps, potential funding sources, and short-term and long-term goals for each solution idea.
“I’m always open to new ideas, and young people are the ones who keep us on our toes and make us realize that the old ways of doing things are not always the best,” Councilman Eric Howard, District Four representative, said. “I look forward to seeing what great work they have to present to us.”
The event will not only showcase the group’s solutions, but also provide a platform for community members to engage with their proposals.
After the final presentation in October, the Young Gamechangers’ mission will be completed, and it will be up to the city to do what it will with the provided ideas and statistics.