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Local volunteers seek county support to launch Young Marines unit in Russell County
Summary
Presenters asked the Board of Supervisors to support and help recruit volunteers and funding for a Young Marines youth unit; an adult volunteer and a former Young Marine described program activities and requested help with donations and volunteer recruitment. Two supervisors offered to assist.
Michelle Vance and her daughter, Sydney Virgos, presented to the Russell County Board of Supervisors on Feb. 3 seeking community support to start a Young Marines unit in Russell County.
"Young Marines is more than just an organization; it's a way of life," Sydney Virgos said, describing weekend encampments, leadership schools, color guard duties and service projects that she said helped shape her leadership and civic habits.
Michelle Vance described the Young Marines as a national 501(c)(3) youth education and service program for boys and girls ages 8 through high-school graduation that teaches leadership, teamwork and a drug-free lifestyle. Vance said the nearest unit is about 120 miles away in Knoxville and that establishing a local unit would require volunteer adult leaders, some donations to cover fees, uniforms, books, tents and gear, and occasional financial assistance for youth who cannot pay entry or application fees.
Vance asked the board for help identifying potential funding sources, including drug-prevention funds and local donations, and for volunteers. Two board supervisors volunteered to assist with moving the initiative forward; the presenters said they would follow up with county staff to coordinate next steps. Vance said adult volunteers receive training and that the program is run by the youth with adults acting as guides rather than directing the program.
Board members thanked the presenters and said staff would follow up to connect them with county resources and discuss how the board might legally appropriate limited funds if warranted. No formal motion or county funding was requested or approved during the presentation.
