This holiday season, the Lady Lions, an exceptional after-school club at La France Elementary School in Anderson District 4, embarked on a heartwarming mission to deliver joy and laughter to the residents of Clemson Downs. Under the guidance of teachers and club organizers Jennifer Crosby and Somer Duncan, these young leaders carried out their fall service project by creating and delivering festive Turkey Tissue Boxes to brighten the day of local seniors.

The Lady Lions’ initiative aimed to lift the spirits of Clemson Downs residents, spreading a little holiday magic to remind them that their community cares deeply for them. “We are doing this to lift their spirit and bring joy this holiday season!” said the organizers, emphasizing the club’s commitment to community service.

This marks the inaugural year for the Lady Lions’ holiday project, but the organizers are hopeful it will become a cherished annual tradition. "We hope to do this each year, as Clemson Downs allows," shared the club advisors, envisioning a legacy of holiday cheer for years to come.

The Lady Lions Club, founded around 2015, has long been a cornerstone of leadership and service for young ladies at La France Elementary School. However, like many programs, the club faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic between 2019 and 2020 and took a brief hiatus. This year, with renewed energy and enthusiasm, Somer Duncan approached Jennifer Crosby with the idea of reviving the club, and together they brought it back to life.

The Lady Lions Club has always emphasized community connection, and in previous years, the group spread cheer by visiting the NHC Healthcare Center. This year, they introduced a new tradition by bringing their heartfelt gestures to the residents of Clemson Downs. The Turkey Tissue Box delivery marked the first service project for the newly revived Lady Lions and demonstrated the club’s enduring commitment to serving others.

Beyond their community outreach, the Lady Lions Club is a platform for developing leadership skills and fostering character among its members. Students must complete an application process to join, maintain good academic standing, and consistently model positive behavior. Through their service projects, these young ladies make a meaningful impact on their school and the broader community while learning the value of kindness and connection.

This fall service project not only brought smiles to the residents of Clemson Downs but also provided a meaningful opportunity for Lady Lions members to develop leadership skills and learn the importance of giving back. The group has plans for a spring service project as well, ensuring they continue to make a positive impact on their school and community.

The highlight of the project was the delivery of the Turkey Tissue Boxes, a creative and festive gesture that brought holiday happiness to Clemson Downs. These hand-delivered boxes, crafted with care and thoughtfulness, symbolized more than just holiday decor—they were a heartfelt connection between generations.

For the Lady Lions, this event was not just about giving but also about learning the value of kindness, empathy, and the joy of making a difference. The residents of Clemson Downs expressed their gratitude, and the smiles shared during this visit were a testament to the success of the project.

As the Lady Lions continue to grow, they look forward to carrying on this wonderful tradition and finding even more ways to serve their community. The Clemson Downs holiday visit has set a strong foundation for future projects, showcasing how small acts of kindness can create lasting bonds and uplift an entire community.

With the dedication of the Lady Lions and the guidance of their teachers, the future of this young club shines bright. Through their efforts, they are proving that leadership and service can start early, and that the true spirit of the season lies in giving and caring for others.