The Corporate Volunteer Council of Atlanta (CVC) supports member companies to deliver business results through their strategic commitment to social impact and civic engagement. Since 1992, the CVC has provided professional development and networking for Metro Atlanta’s most community-minded companies and corporate social responsibility (CSR) professionals.
Each year, the CVC hosts the IMPACT Awards, celebrating outstanding examples of corporate social responsibility and community partnerships. The 28th Annual IMPACT Awards is scheduled for Tuesday, September 9, from 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. at The Dogwood at Westside Paper with the theme “Serving With Purpose.” The event is presented by Delta Air Lines (Diamond Sponsor), with support from Platinum Sponsors Chick-fil-A and Kaiser Permanente, and a host of other Atlanta companies.
Read more about the Corporate Volunteer Council of Atlanta’s annual IMPACT Awards here.
This year, more than 30 nominations were reviewed by our national judging panel of CSR leaders, who selected finalists in three award categories. Winners will be announced at the IMPACT Awards and posted on the CVC website following the event.
IMPACT Corporate Innovative Project of the Year
This award recognizes short-term employee engagement or social impact projects that achieve measurable results and spark new ways of thinking.
Aprio – Building Resilient Entrepreneurs (BRE)
In partnership with United Way of Greater Atlanta, UPS, and Truist, Aprio launched BRE to support underrepresented entrepreneurs. The six-month program combines matched savings, financial education, and mentorship. Participants save $1,500, which is doubled through matching funds, creating a foundation for business growth. Aprio volunteers lead workshops on budgeting, tax efficiency, and financial strategy, and the program culminates in a pitch competition with grants up to $8,500. BRE redefines how corporate and nonprofit partners collaborate for long-term economic impact.
Southwire – Workforce Development Partnership
Southwire partnered with Carroll County Schools (GA) to tackle low graduation rates by blending classroom learning with paid work experience. Students gain skills in a manufacturing environment while earning wages and mentorship. This “learn and earn” approach equips at-risk students with both job readiness and motivation to complete their education, strengthening both community and workforce pipelines.
IMPACT Corporate Skills-Based Award
This award honors companies that apply employee expertise to strengthen nonprofits while developing their own workforce.
Purpose Possible – Governmental Affairs Task Force
When federal funding freezes threatened nonprofits in early 2025, Purpose Possible mobilized its team to provide critical guidance. The task force distilled executive orders and legal rulings into clear resources, created financial planning tools, and advocated for nonprofit stability with policymakers. Their efforts not only supported partners in crisis but also promoted long-term resilience by encouraging funding diversification.
CSX – Drone Pilot Training for Veterans
CSX launched a training program for underemployed veterans, developed with the Wounded Warrior Project. Participants received classroom and hands-on instruction, mentorship, and resume support, culminating in drone pilot certification. Since its launch, the program has served over 50 veterans, many of whom returned as mentors or launched entrepreneurial careers. Both participants and CSX employees reported a 100% positive experience, underscoring its success as both a workforce and community initiative.
IMPACT Corporate Program of the Year
This award recognizes exemplary CSR or employee volunteer programs that embed service into company culture.
Beazer Homes – Teaching Kitchen for Gigi’s Playhouse
To expand life-skills programming for individuals with Down syndrome, Beazer Homes partnered with Gigi’s Playhouse to design and build a fully equipped, inclusive teaching kitchen. The space enables hands-on cooking classes that build independence, support health, and expand the nonprofit’s capacity without financial strain—all while engaging volunteers in meaningful service.
Papa Johns – Career Exploration for Youth
Papa Johns addressed the gap in real-world career exposure for teens by launching a program that immerses high school students in the restaurant and corporate food industry. Volunteers from culinary, marketing, HR, and development teams led workshops and mentoring sessions, helping youth envision diverse career pathways and build confidence for the future.
The CVC congratulates all finalists and nominees for their outstanding contributions to Metro Atlanta communities. You may read more about our finalists on the CVC website at www.cvcofatlanta.org/impact and by following us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.