Corrina Giacalone, a sophomore at Blue Ridge High School in Greer, has been named a 2026–2027 PalmettoPride Youth Ambassador. She is one of 16 students selected statewide from nearly 200 applicants.
Giacalone’s commitment to fighting litter began in elementary school, when she saw PalmettoPride’s “Litter Trashes Everyone” marionette show. Today, she is a flight commander in Blue Ridge High’s Air Force JROTC program and serves on its drill team and honor guard. She also runs track and cross country and plays cello in the orchestra. She volunteers in her church’s nursery, at food packaging events for families facing food insecurity, and at community cleanups.
“I want to support my community and have the platform to encourage people to clean up around themselves,” Giacalone said.
With more Gen Z adults moving to South Carolina than to any other state, PalmettoPride is preparing young South Carolinians to lead the way in keeping the state clean and beautiful. Now in its fifth year, the Youth Ambassador program offers participants a $1,000 scholarship, community service hours and professional development opportunities.
“Our future depends on young leaders who care about this place. These 16 students are taking matters into their own hands, and their classmates, neighbors, and even the adults around them are following their lead,” said Sarah Lyles, executive director of PalmettoPride.
Over the coming months, ambassadors will take part in regular training and networking sessions, represent PalmettoPride at community events, plan and lead local litter cleanups, and lead outreach that promotes civic pride and environmental stewardship across South Carolina.
