Virginia native Matt Anderson made the move to Milledgeville almost three years ago, and says he is beyond proud to call the city home.
After growing up and living in suburban cities in both Virginia and Georgia, the idea of a small town was nerve wracking to Anderson. However, after settling in Milledgeville, he said that he and his wife, Stacey Anderson, have “proudly stumbled into being small-town folks.”
“I was working on staff with Young Life in Buford when I got the news that I would be moving to Milledgeville. It has been surprising to see what all Milledgeville holds for my family and I, and how much we have enjoyed small-town life,” Anderson said.
Anderson has been involved with the religious organization Young Life for 13 years. He previously served as a volunteer leader before going on field staff for the organization. Now, Anderson works as the area director for Greater Milledgeville Young Life, which serves middle and high school students in Baldwin, Putnam, and Washington counties.
“Through Young Life I’ve learned how much of a positive impact you can have on a town. There is a rich history of Young Life in Milledgeville. Young Life celebrates 25 years of serving the Milledgeville community this year, and I’m excited to see how the organization’s presence will impact the trajectory of the lives of people here in the years to come,” Anderson said.
“Milledgeville has taught me to enjoy the little things, that’s what has been one of my biggest takeaways. You start to appreciate the little moments in life more while living here, and the people who live here are really special.”
Anderson praised the community he and his family have found through Milledgeville First United Methodist Church, and the welcoming embrace that has been shown to them.
“The folks there feel like family, and they are grateful for the contribution Young Life gives to our town. It is amazing to be welcomed with open arms.”
A highlight of living in Milledgeville for Anderson has been experiencing authentic Southern-style comfort food. He has become a big fan of the restaurant Greene’s, located in downtown Milledgeville. “In my opinion Greene’s is as good as it gets. I know that’s a bold statement coming from someone who wasn’t raised in the South, but there is nothing that beats a Southern brunch at Greene’s on a Sunday,” Anderson said.
When thinking of his future in Milledgeville, Anderson looks forward to seeing the impact his work will continue to have on the community.
“In doing what we do with Young Life and its ministry, it will be impactful to see how many more student lives it changes in the next five, even 10 years.” he said.