Briar Bay Park was popping with excitement this past weekend as the 21st annual Project Reach G.A.N.G. (God’s Anointed Now Generation), drew in crowds who enjoyed free meals, fellowship, words of inspiration and free school supplies for those in attendance.

The annual back to school rally is spearheaded by Lavonia LeCounte, Founder and Executive Director of Project Reach G.A.N.G. Inc.

LeCounte praised everyone for coming out to support the children of the community.

The rally celebrated the upcoming school year and the incoming student body. Guest speakers Al Williams, Liberty County Sheriff Steve Sikes, Liberty County School System Chairwoman Lily Baker, School Superintendent Dr. Franklin Perry and Riceboro Mayor Pro Temp Tommy Williams greeted the attendees and offered words of encouragement for the students and families.

Liberty County Board of Education vice Chair, Verdell Jones served as the emcee. United Ministerial Alliance President Pastor Richard Hayes opened the ceremony with a prayer.

LeCounte said the back to school rally started back in 1998 when concerned parents came together to give their children a better chance at life through education, the arts and the church.

“It was and still is my calling,” she said.

LeCounte founded Project Reach with the goal of improving the children in academics, health and wellness, cultural awareness and increase parent involvement in their children’s lives. Project REACH G.A.N. G. provides youth development training, peer pressure classes, job interview training mentoring and tutorial programs.

After the ceremony and choir the children were released into the playground where the community vendors welcomed them with gifts and school supplies.

Project Reach G.A.N.G. was also able to give away five laptop computers to high school seniors and students entering their freshman year in college.