History:
The idea for Pride and Progress was conceived in January, 1992 by James W. (Jimmy) Smith, a successful business man in south Richmond County for more than 50 years. Jimmy had a desire and a vision for an improved and thriving south Richmond County area.
The original name of the organization was "Pride and Progress Committee". Jimmy began by enrolling other community leaders in the group. This early group believed that one of the first accomplishments and efforts should be in the appearance of the area.
Thus began the clean up and beautification campaign. This continues today in co-operation with elected officials and other agencies to clean up urban blight and to remove all types of litter and unsightly debris from all areas. A quarterly litter and trash pickup is held to demonstrate the commitment of the organization to keep the area neat and clean.
Pride and Progress supported the wildflower tag law and the beautification of roadways, gateways and corridors into the city-county. With aggressive and positive leadership, the organization has grown and has been a positive force in:
- Improved attraction of business Into the area
- Business education in the public schools New and improved recreational facilities Yearly recognition of outstanding students from our schools, and
- A Youth Challenge Academy at Fort Gordon
Current Leadership:
Founder and Executive Director: Jimmy Smith
President: Larry Sides
Vice President : Aubrey Highsmith
Secretary: Virginia (Ginny) Rushing
Treasurer: Don Hudson
Program Planning:
Jimmy Smith, Don Hudson, Larry Sides, Sandy Mercer, Kyle Howell, and
Helen Blocker-Adams
Sub-Committees
Education: Larry Sides
Public Relations: Aubrey Highsmith, Sandy Mercer, Billy Mitchell
Business and Industry: Don Hudson, Pete Fulcher, Helen Blocker-Adams, Bob Garrett, Sandy Mercer
Recreation and Beautification: Ginny Rushing, Eugene Tanzymore
Youth Challenge Academy: Lt. Col. Jan Zimmerman, Ginny Rushing, Jimmy Smith
FAQs: see the full listing of q&a here
