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KOBA is an unique organization, taking a broad approach (education, remediation, legislation, and promotion) to solve a very specific problem (keeping Oconee beautiful). This effort is provided by a volunteer staff, assuring that the organization's funding is used directly on the group's mission. In April of 1985, four residents of Oconee County met to discuss their concerns over the growing problem of litter on the roadside. They selected a name that was specific to what they hoped to accomplish: Keep Oconee Beautiful Association was born. Since those early days, KOBA has expanded in size and scope. Through modest dues and unselfish volunteer spirit of Oconee County's citizens, KOBA has accomplished much since 1985 and has grown to an organization with hundreds of members. KOBA's activities are overseen by a Board of eleven elected members working in concert with committee chairs and volunteers. Operating capital is obtained from membership dues, contributions, and grants. The Cooperative Extension Service in Walhalla generously offers telephone support and provides space for KOBA board meetings and supply storage. Today, KOBA administers the Adopt-A-Highway program in the county, supporting the state initiative without cost to the county. KOBA’s unrivaled education program has been recognized by the state as being a unique program and providing a positive learning experience for the elementary students in Oconee County. KOBA oversees an annual photo contest that has provided hundreds of entries illustrating many of the beautiful aspects of Oconee County. The recent affiliation with KAB (Keep America Beautiful), should help to enhance the effectiveness of KOBA's programs through publicity and direction in using time tested practices to help create public awareness of the litter problem. In addition, KOBA has been permanently installed in the South Carolina Hall of Fame for repeatedly winning the Governor’s Award for Community Improvement. We encourage you to call or write for more information. We would like to have you as a member of our association (click here to go to the Membership Application). Most importantly, we ask that you join in our goal to Keep Oconee Beautiful. |
