Forsyth County Sheriff Ted Paxton has been tapped to lead a charity he holds dear.

According to a statement released Monday, Paxton has been chosen as president of the board of directors for the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes.

According to its Web site, the organization works "to give our state's most at-risk children the love, safety and structure needed to become mature, successful adults."

There are five of the full-time residential facilities throughout Georgia, as well as a summer camp program.

Paxton, a long-time supporter of the organization, has served on the board for several years.

“The Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes is one of my favorite charities,” he said. “I’m glad to have been afforded the opportunity to serve on its board of directors.”

The local sheriff’s office annually sponsors a golf tournament and motorcycle ride, both of which benefit the youth homes.

Paxton, along with the rest of the board, was sworn in during the recent Georgia Sheriff’s Summer Training Conference at Lake Lanier Islands.