On this, our 10th Anniversary this Spring, we celebrate ten years of service to the youth of our county. We have assisted numerous young people, both independently and through other youth-focused organizations. RabunYES began in 2016 with an initial $25k contribution honoring WW2 US Navy nurse Lieutenant (J.G.) Gladys Dutton who passed away three years after that contribution at the age of 101. Since our founding, we have touched probably 30 or so different organizations helping youth in Rabun County with financial support and/or teaching resources. Below is a summary of this past quarter’s activities as we approach Springtime:
- RabunYES helped out Cub Scout Pack 6 as it began the new registration year in B.S.A. (aka “Scouting America”) with $500. The Cubs are growing and have a great program that helps out the younger kids in our county, most notably with teaching age-appropriate skills and hosting of the iconic Pinewood Derby event while also introducing kids to family camping.
- We have had a long-standing relationship with Rabun County 4-H. This year, we were able to fund four (4) youth for summer camp in 2026. The 4-H organization (via UGA’s Extension program) select these youth who would not otherwise be able to afford summer camp. RabunYES helps them out by covering their costs.
- In other efforts, RabunYES assisted the Civil Air Patrol by providing funds in support of their venue. Going forward, we will stay close to the CAP and see what other needs they may have in 2026.
- AVITA Community Partners submitted a proposal for “therapy drums” and tambourines to be used in their behavioral science efforts. Native American music is being taught in this unique program, RabunYES was able to meet AVITA’s needs with a gift of $1,500.
- RabunYES became a “gold member” sponsor of the Rabun County Special Olympics. This is our first time being involved with this very worthwhile program.
- We have reached out to the Girl Scouts in the county and hope to hear of their 2026 needs fairly soon.
- RabunYES still has ample time this year to teach teens and college students financial management, covering banking basics, credit scoring, personal budgeting, and more. Organizations interested in a free customized seminar for young people can contact us using the email provided below.
Lastly, we mourn the passing of Chris Nalley, one of Troop 19’s Assistant Scoutmasters. His funeral is on this Saturday, March 7 @ Church of the Mountains, Clayton, 1 pm. He will be very missed by all those he had helped. May he rest in peace.
As always, we continue thanking our donors and constituents for their generous support.