(Lawrenceville, Ga., March 21, 2020) – Gwinnett County is asking many local businesses to modify their service delivery or even to close until the COVID-19 danger passes. Those sacrifices will be in vain if the rest of the community does not do its part as well.

Many community groups such as faith-based organizations, nonprofits, civic organizations, athletic associations and others have already taken steps to protect their members and to slow the spread of COVID-19 by postponing events, limiting in-person interactions, practicing social distancing and using technology in place of group gatherings.

Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners Nash said, “Gwinnett County’s many faith-based groups and other community organizations contribute to the rich fabric of Gwinnett in so many ways. The district commissioners and I appreciate the steps taken by many of these groups in response to the threat posed by COVID-19. I know that we can count on our community groups to find creative ways to serve the needs of their members and the community while also helping slow the spread of COVID-19.”

To that end, the County urges all community groups, including faith-based congregations, civic groups, athletic associations and clubs, to use alternatives to in-person meetings as much as possible and to limit in-person interactions to small groups using social distancing. By quickly implementing these precautionary measures, community organizations can help shorten the time the entire community is adversely affected by COVID-19 and, perhaps, avoid more drastic changes later.

In addition, everyone should practice social distancing if they visit County parks. Large groups, primarily teens and young adults, are congregating in outdoor sports facilities at County parks without regard for the need to maintain distance among themselves. Gwinnett County Government urges compliance with the posted notices at parks. Otherwise, it will be necessary to prohibit the use of facilities such as skate parks and outdoor volleyball and basketball courts.

“We’re asking each Gwinnettian to fully engage in slowing the spread of COVID-19,” said Nash. “We also thank the community for what has already been done and for what will be done in coming days. Together, we can make a difference.”