Dr. Karen Bell
Keep Liberty Beautiful
The Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation (KGBF) will honor Dr. Karen Bell with a Barbara Mason Executive Director of the Year Award this spring. The nonprofit will present the distinction at its annual affiliate conference in Young Harris on May 6.
Each year, KGBF celebrates individuals, groups, and organizations that exemplify efforts to protect the state’s environment through litter prevention, waste reduction, recycling, and beautification. The Barbara Mason Executive Director of the Year Award, named in honor of KGBF’s founder, recognizes an affiliate leader with a profound commitment to making our state cleaner, greener, and more beautiful. I am incredibly honored and humbled to receive the Barbara Mason Executive Director of the Year Award. I am passionate about the work I do with my community through education and inspiring others to care for our environment. Being able to collaborate with KLB Advisory Board, and other organizations to Keep Liberty County Clean, Green, and Beautiful makes this work even more meaningful.
I was chosen for the Barbara Mason Executive Director of the Year Award following a local nomination process and the recommendations of a team of representatives from multiple environmental agencies. In total, nine individuals or organizations were selected in unique categories.
“We’re thrilled to recognize this year’s recipients,” said Natalie Johnston-Russell, executive director of KGBF. “Their commitment to environmental stewardship is truly inspiring, and they’ve each made an impact that will last for years to come.”
The KGBF says “Karen’s dedication is a powerful reminder of how one person can truly transform a community. She doesn’t just inspire others to take action — she leads by example. From adopting roadways to recycling crayons, she proves that even the smallest efforts can create a lasting and meaningful impact.
“Dr. Karen Bell has been a dedicated advocate for her community since 2006, volunteering tirelessly with Keep Liberty Beautiful before becoming its executive director in 2018. Her passion for service shines through her involvement in organizations such as the Hinesville Rotary Club, Relay for Life, Red Cross, and Disabled American Veterans, showcasing her commitment to making a difference.
“Under Karen’s leadership, innovative initiatives including tire amnesty days have kept over 4,756 tires out of landfills, reflecting her dedication to environmental stewardship. She also organizes the county’s largest environmental education event, the annual Earth Day Celebration, which now attracts over