Newton County Senior Services

As Good As Gold

Its no secret at Newton County Senior Services in Covington, Ga. what the hot item is among its 60- to 89-year-old seniors: bright gold t-shirts.

These vividly colored garments are awarded to participants in the NCSS Monday Walking Club once they reach their personal 20-mile mark. Each member also receives a pedometer after attending the club's first meeting.

The walking club incentives were made possible by an in-kind donation through 4imprint's one by one charitable program. And, according to Freda Reed, Activities Coordinator at NCSS, the gold t-shirts have served their purpose ten-fold as both an incentive and a lead generator.

"Everyone sees the bright gold t-shirts and starts asking 'where did you get that from?' And, 'how can we join?" said Freda. "It really has helped recruitment. Then, once they're in, they bring another friend … and another!"

In total, the 70-member group has garnered over 20,000 miles and sees no distance cap in sight anytime soon. Its members have trekked throughout local and state-wide hiking spots, including the trails of Stone Mountain, Ga. and the scenic paths of Georgia State Parks. Each mile is marked off on a United States map, and sometimes when they cross a state border, the group takes time to celebrate what makes each state special.

"With our low budget, we couldn't afford these perks for our seniors," said Freda. "It makes my job a lot easier when companies like 4imprint are willing to help. Because, in the end, the goal at NCSS is to keep our seniors active, living well and staying well."