Athens Clarke County Leisure Services

The guided hikes and history programs led by Lawson Moore are truly exceptional. When you hike with him, it’s like walking alongside a living audiobook. His knowledge of local history, wildlife, flora, and fauna brings the landscape to life in a way that transforms a simple hike into something memorable and meaningful. His Cast Iron Cookouts are also wonderful community experiences that my kids genuinely look forward to. We have also enjoyed some events and look forward to Art in the Park that one of Lawson’s protégés, Zach Decker, has put on and is putting on. I want to give a shout-out to the Lyndon House Arts Center and the outstanding programs offered there by Mr. William and his revolving staff. The after-school opportunities my children have participated in have been creative, enriching, and incredibly well organized. The center itself is filled with so much history and unique pieces of art. Moreover, I want to recognize the East Athens Educational Dance Center and the incredible programs offered there. The Creative Movement and Kindermovement classes provided such a joyful introduction to dance for my children. The Hip Hip and Jazz classes led by David and his colleague and facilitated by Nina and Nena have especially made a meaningful impact on my daughters’ lives. Their encouragement, structure, and energy have helped build confidence, creativity, and a genuine love for movement. We are truly grateful for the care and intentionality they bring to their programs. I further want to recognize the Sandy Creek Nature Center and the outstanding educational experiences offered there. The planetarium programs and the Knee-High Naturalists programs led by Ms. Michelle have been wonderful learning opportunities for my children. In addition, the strong foundational skills developed in Ms. Kate’s Babies and Beasties class meant so much to our family. The annual “Escape the Space” activities are especially fun and memorable — my kids look forward to them every year. The facility itself, along with its beautiful trails, makes it such a special place for families to explore, learn, and connect with nature. Finally, I want to express my sincere appreciation for the scholarship programs. They make these activities accessible to families like mine. Without that support, many of these opportunities simply wouldn’t have been possible for us. That commitment to inclusion speaks volumes about the department’s values. Honestly, I tried to remember all the great programs and names of the committed people of the department and who I’ve interacted with when writing this. To all of those behind-the scenes people—especially those who help with the crazy 9am-Saturday registrations—I am grateful to you as well. Athens-Clarke County’s Leisure Services Department is a tremendous asset to this community. It fosters connection, learning, health, and joy for families like mine. I am deeply indebted to them for all they do.