The Merze Tate Explorers recently elected Sierra Ward as Youth Board President. Ward, a senior at Loy Norrix High School, has been a member of the Explorers since 5th grade. Her dedication to the organization, outgoing personality, and passion for community service were among her many attributes her fellow Explorers noted in their selection of Ward.

Ward led the youth in their first bottle drive fundraiser. This effort included utilizing the skills of the youth board to create and promote the event via social media, organize youth and adult drivers into targeted neighborhoods, and collaborate with New Day Community Church to utilize their parking lot as a drop off/sorting station.

Ward’s leadership in the four-hour event helped raise more than $800 toward scholarships for girls and outreach service projects that target youth.

In addition to her membership in the Merze Tate Explorers, Ward is a Girl Scouts – Bronze, Silver Award honors; Gold Award Candidate (2021), and has volunteered with such organizations as Big Brothers/Big Sisters – Littles Program Mentee, Bible Baptist Church – Youth Worship and Praise Team Leader, Meals on Wheels, LINK – Crew Leader, Interact Gospel Mission Volunteer, Greenhouse volunteer, and Nursing Home Vocal Fellowship Ministry.

Other cabinet members include:

Syann Hollins, Vice President

Maya Daniels, Treasurer

Kalea Barnes, Secretary

Shemaiah Lawler, Social Media Chair