EcoPaths of South Georgia and VLPRA Receive $5,000 BRACE Grant to Improve Local Community
This past weekend EcoPaths and VLPRA had their first event that was funded by they BRACE Grant; Read more about the grant here!
In partnership with the Valdosta-Lowndes County Park and Recreation Authority (VLPRA), EcoPaths of South Georgia (EcoPaths) received a $5,000 BRACE Grant from the Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation–a statewide organization that leads more than 70 city and county affiliates in their efforts to end litter, reduce waste, promote recycling, and beautify communities.
The grant program, now in its third year, was made possible by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division through the Solid Waste Trust Fund. It aims to reduce litter, blight, and illegal dumping on public property and encourage code enforcement efforts. “Thanks to the BRACE Grant from the Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation and our partnership with VLPRA, EcoPaths can make a more permanent impact in our community,” said Emily Millet, Executive Director of EcoPaths. “So far, we have rallied dedicated volunteers for important cleanups, but funding like this allows us to address one of the root causes of litter and blight–a lack of accessible infrastructure–while continuing to empower local residents to care for our town and environment.”
EcoPaths is dedicated to building a cleaner, greener community through education, youth engagement, and hands-on stewardship. With support from the BRACE Grant, we are launching a litter reduction and community engagement project at Taylor-Cowart, Scott, and Hightower Parks. Funds from the grant will go towards improving waste disposal, hosting cleanups, and engaging residents in easy steps to help keep their parks healthy and safe. By focusing on these three high traffic parks, EcoPaths aims to create visible, lasting impact while setting a model for future community-driven litter reduction efforts. “Clean, green, and beautiful spaces enable everyone to thrive,” said Natalie Johnston-Russell, Executive Director of the Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation. “They attract businesses, protect local wildlife, and become vibrant places for families, neighbors, and visitors. We’re thrilled to offer funding that will facilitate this locally.”
EcoPaths of South Georgia is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to building a cleaner, more sustainable community through environmental education and youth engagement. Launched on Earth Day in April 2025, EcoPaths provides hands-on learning experiences that empower Lowndes, Brooks, and Berrien residents to take an active role in environmental stewardship. Through community cleanups, educational workshops, and outreach programs, EcoPaths works to inspire and equip the next generation of environmental leaders across South Georgia. Learn more about EcoPaths of South Georgia at ecopaths.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn for updates and volunteer opportunities. Support future cleanup efforts on Givebutter
The Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation has been doing the little things that make a big difference in Georgia’s communities for over 45 years. Established in 1978, we aim to educate and inspire Georgians to take action every day to improve and beautify their community environments. The Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation supports more than 70 local affiliates across the state, and its programs represent 80% of Georgia’s population. We also strive to engage new communities and individuals in our efforts to end littering, promote recycling and waste reduction, and beautify communities. For more information, visit www.kgbf.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
