GREENSBORO, Ga. — On Saturday, Oct. 28, the Rotary Club of Greene and Putnam Counties made a significant impact in the lives of local children through their Shoes 4 Kids project. In a heartwarming day filled with joy and camaraderie, 47 students from the Greene and Putnam County area were treated to a memorable shopping experience at Shoe Carnival in Augusta, Georgia.

The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as the children boarded the buses, each filled with anticipation for the day ahead.Thanks to Chick-fil-A Lake Oconee, the journey began with a delightful surprise: freshly prepared chicken biscuits and drinks for everyone. The delicious breakfast set the tone for a day dedicated to uplifting the spirits and well-being of the local youth.

The Rotary Club has collaborated with Shoe Carnival for over nine years to create an unforgettable experience for these children, fostering a positive and uplifting environment as they choose their new school essentials. The Shoes 4 Kids event not only provided much-needed items, but also boosted the children’s confidence and self-esteem.

Upon arrival at Shoe Carnival, each child was paired with a dedicated volunteer from the Rotary Club, embarking on a personal shopping adventure to select a new pair of shoes. The process was not just about picking out footwear; it was an opportunity for mentorship and connection, as volunteers engaged with the kids, listening to their stories and sharing in their excitement.

In addition to shoes, each student received a new pair of socks and a book from Rotary’s Books 4 Kids program—ensuring that they not only left with stylish new footwear, but also with resources to foster a love of reading.

Rev. Avis Williams, a steadfast supporter of the Shoes 4 Kids initiative, was present to offer encouragement and positivity throughout the day. Her words of inspiration resonated with both the children and volunteers, reminding everyone of the importance of community and the profound impact of giving back.

Shoes 4 Kids is one of the signature projects of the Rotary Club of Greene and Putnam Counties, exemplifying their dedication to serving the community. By ensuring that children have access to proper footwear, the program not only boosts confidence but also promotes physical well-being and encourages active participation in school and community activities.

The day concluded with smiling faces and full hearts as the students returned home, each carrying their new shoes, socks, and books—a tangible reminder of the kindness and generosity of their community. The Rotary Club’s Shoes 4 Kids project stands as a testament to the power of service, reminding us all that when we come together, we can create lasting change in the lives of those around us.

In the spirit of Rotary, the impact of this initiative will extend far beyond a single day, as these new shoes symbolize the hope and opportunities that lie ahead for each child. Through projects like Shoes 4 Kids, the Rotary Club continues to build a brighter future, one step at a time.

Rotarian Ashley Goodroe, who organized the event, shared her thoughts on the importance of the initiative: “Seeing the smiles on these childrens’ faces as they find their perfect pair of shoes is truly heartwarming. Shoes 4 Kids is not just about providing footwear; it’s about building confidence and showing these kids that they are valued members of our community.”

The Rotary Club wishes to thank the Rev. Avis Williams, Putnam County Charter School System representative, for helping to organize the students.Also, the Rotary Club offers a special thanks to Shoe Carnival Store Manager Jeanette Oldham and her excellent staff for opening the store early for the event and providing shopping assistance and snacks to the children, and Chick-fil-A Lake Oconee for providing chicken biscuits. The Rotary Club thanks them all for their help in making this event so successful.

The Rotary Club of Greene and Putnam is a dedicated group of community leaders, professionals, and volunteers committed to making a positive impact on the local community through various service projects and initiatives. If you are interested to know more about how you can get involved with the many local projects of the Rotary of Greene and Putnam Counties, visit www.GreenePutnamRotary.org , Facebook or Instagram.