Commissioner Bradshaw nominates Joan Crothers for “Every Day Hero” award

HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Joan Crothers was honored with a citizen award by Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw at his monthly meeting on Tuesday, March 20, for her many years of selfless service within the community.

Ms. Crothers has been a resident of Towns County since 1977, relocating to the area as a single mother of a nine-year-old daughter.  Joan worked several odd jobs to support herself – cleaning cabins, substitute teaching, transporting passengers to the airport, cashiering at a local restaurant, as well as editing a local newspaper – yet found time to devote to the community despite long hours spent working to support herself and her child.

In addition, Joan Crothers served on Hiawassee City Council for eight years.

“Ms. Crothers dedication to the people of this county has served as an inspiration to me and the whole community, ” says Commissioner Bradshaw, “I cannot think of anyone who contributes more time and energy into the community and its people. She is very deserving of this recognition.”

Joan Crothers began volunteering as a Girl Scout leader, with the 4-H Club, and as an active volunteer with the Parent Teacher Student Organization (PTSO).

The 40-year resident was a charter member of the Towns County Chamber of Commerce, a founding member and former of the Towns County Fire Corps, and a charter member of “PUP” which rescues and assists with the cost associated with spaying and neutering pets.

Ms. Crothers has served as a volunteer with the Towns County Garden Club for 38 years, has helped at Hamilton Gardens at Lake Chatuge, and has earned an affectionate title as “Queen of the Square” – the result of the countless hours spent landscaping the courthouse grounds and town square each year.

Ms. Crothers assisted in petitioning to establish the first recycling center in Towns County while volunteering with the Towns County League of Women Voters, Towns County American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), Towns County Hospital Board, Towns County Civic Association, Towns County Historical Society, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), Sheriff’s Auxiliary, and Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Ms. Crothers continues to remain active in the majority of the volunteer organizations, extending many hours to improving the lives of others.

“I love this place and the people in it, ” says Joan Crothers, “When I came here 40 years ago, I received good support from the community and the people here accepted us without hesitation. I just want to give back.”