Fayetteville, Georgia

The trails at The Ridge Nature Area are now more accessible thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Sigma Omicron Lambda Leadership Academy, a program of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity’s (AOA) local chapter, Sigma Omicron Lambda (SOL). On November 23, 2024, mentees and mentors from the Leadership Academy partnered with the Southern Conservation Trust (SCT) for a day of service, constructing a new footbridge on one of the park’s popular trails.

The volunteer day brought together the Academy’s mission of empowering teenage males with leadership and service opportunities and SCT’s commitment to community engagement and environmental stewardship. Over the course of the day, mentees worked alongside SCT staff and mentors from the local chapter, gaining hands-on experience in teamwork, problem-solving, and project management.

“The Sigma Omicron Lambda Leadership Academy truly exemplified what it means to lead with purpose and impact,” said Jay Averett, Special Projects Manager for the Southern Conservation Trust. “Their hard work and dedication have created a lasting improvement to The Ridge Nature Area that will benefit thousands of visitors for years to come.”

The footbridge enhances both safety and accessibility for hikers, runners, and families enjoying the trails, particularly in this area that is prone to muddy conditions. By taking on this project, the Leadership Academy mentees demonstrated their commitment to fostering a positive impact on the community while developing practical leadership skills in the process.

“This experience gave our mentees the chance to connect their leadership development training to real-world service,” said Dr. Marcus Broadhead, Corresponding Officer for Sigma Omicron Lambda. “We’re proud to have partnered with the Southern Conservation Trust to give back to a community resource like The Ridge Nature Area, and we hope this inspires our mentees to continue driving positive change wherever they go.”

The event was honored by the presence of Fayetteville Mayor Edward Johnson, a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. “As Mayor of the City of Fayetteville and on behalf of the City Council, I express sincerest appreciation to the Men of SOL Chapter of AOA and the Leadership Program designed to mentor young men in our community,” said Mayor Johnson. “It is a blessing for programs such as the Sigma Omicron Leadership Academy to find ways to be of service to the community in which our youth are being raised. The work that was done mirrors my belief that those who live within it can accomplish what we want for our city. These young men were able to truly make a difference for others they may never meet. I’m very proud of them and the work that Southern Conservation Trust has been doing since they have been entrusted with managing this very important work.”

The Ridge Nature Area, managed by Southern Conservation Trust, features 235 acres of protected greenspace and over 6 miles of trails, making it a vital hub for outdoor recreation in Fayette County. Projects like this are part of SCT’s broader mission to elevate nature through stewardship, education, and public access to natural spaces. The new footbridge is located on the Three Oaks Trail, a section of the orange-blazed trail that connects Three Oaks to the Whitewater Creek overlook. The Ridge Nature Area is open to the public daily, from sunrise to sunset, and SCT encourages community members to explore this beautiful nature area. 

To learn more about the Southern Conservation Trust and The Ridge Nature Area, visit www.sctlandtrust.org/the-ridge-nature-area.