The spirit of giving back runs deep at Lake Oconee Academy and starts early. Whether through student-led service projects or parent volunteerism with the Parent Teacher Committee, our community consistently steps up to make a difference. That’s why we’re proud to shine a light on the people and programs that demonstrate the heart behind our Titan pride.
This school year, students are already rising to the call of community service. LOA Beta Club and Jr. Beta Club have kicked off one of their hallmark initiatives, their annual food drive, which typically collects around 2,000 pounds of food items to support families in our local community. This project not only meets tangible needs, but also teaches students
about empathy, generosity and civic responsibility. Their impact doesn’t stop there. Throughout the year, Beta students also visit local nursing homes and assisted living centers, offering companionship, conversation and even handmade nonslip socks for residents. These visits reflect the heart of LOA’s service mindset: building relationships and showing kindness beyond the classroom walls.
LOA is also once again partnering with the Greene County Christmas Stocking Fund for a schoolwide initiative, collecting toys across campus to support local families in need. The holiday season is a time for giving and the LOA Beta Club is proud to be the school sponsor club for the annual toy and coat drives to help spread warmth and joy to families in need within our community. Collection boxes are placed throughout campus, and the effort brings our entire Titan community together in a meaningful way. It’s a simple but powerful reminder of how we can help brighten the holidays for others.
In addition to their seasonal efforts, LOA students also help organize and support blood drives in partnership with the American Red Cross. These events are an important way our older students contribute to life-saving causes while learning the value of civic responsibility and public health
The Parent Teacher Committee (PTC) at LOA too, has contributed an estimated 300 hours of volunteer service since August. From distributing school kits to supporting Grandparents Day, Titan Tailgate and October’s beloved Character Costume Parade (including a fun-filled Teacher Costume Race they sponsored!), the PTC is always on the move. They also run a monthly “Stock the Breakroom” initiative to keep teachers fueled with fun, healthy snacks and caffeine, of course. Throughout the year, they support countless other efforts like the Book Fair, holiday events and family engagement programs. Their service helps elevate the everyday experience at LOA for students and staff alike. "Volunteering through the PTC lets me stay connected, give back to a school I love, and show my kids what it looks like to serve joyfully," says Andrea McGuire, PTC member and proud Titan parent.
These acts of service—large and small—are part of what makes Lake Oconee Academy such a special place. Collection boxes, sign-ups and student leadership make each of these service opportunities more than just events, they're meaningful learning experiences that bring our entire Titan community together in service and spirit. Students are learning that leadership and service go hand-in-hand and that even small actions can make a big difference. As we head into this season of thankfulness, we celebrate the hands and hearts that make our school community shine.