Kat Reynolds is a champion for solving local issues in her community and beyond by leveraging unique collaborations between corporations and nonprofits. She has devoted her work to uplifting children’s educations and future careers, providing resources to those suffering from food insecurity and general hardship, gathering funds and supplies to donate to communities experiencing natural disasters, tending to environmental and sustainability efforts, and empowering women in their careers, under harsh conditions or battling unforeseen circumstances.

Her passion for volunteerism shines through in her work with various organizations, including the Junior League of Atlanta, Corporate Volunteer Council, Junior Achievement of Georgia, Girl Scouts of Greater ATL, and Trees Atlanta. As Reynolds explains, "There is an opportunity for every person to give something of themselves - I hope (if you haven't already) that you find your light bulb moment!"

Teaming up with these groups, she turns community sponsorships into meaningful relationships that will last a lifetime. Reynolds says, "With Trees Atlanta, I can see my impact, and get a great workout at the same time! With Junior League, I have access to inspiring professional mentors and can learn about many nonprofits in the Atlanta community."

Through thought leadership around skill-based volunteerism, Reynolds enabled Veritiv to work with the Girl Scouts to design the Cookie Rally box design to help launch their latest cookie, thinking "outside the box" to spearhead nonprofit capacity building.

Reynolds' dedication to social impact and community engagement is not new. Before her role at Veritiv, she served as Mercedes-Benz USA’s Corporate Social Responsibility Manager. She implemented the Give Back employee program and doubled the company’s volunteer time through hours given, Matching Gifts donated, and Executive Management skills-based community engagement. One of her notable projects was the Girls Have No Limits campaign, which intended to break down gender stereotypes through female mentorship. Her efforts earned Atlanta Public Schools 2021 Corporate Partner of the Year for Mercedes-Benz.

When asked about the impact areas or pressing needs facing Atlanta that she cares about most, Reynolds shares, "Access to healthcare for women. Women need to not only have affordable access to healthcare, but the flexibility from workplaces to access appointments, and then also respect and empathy from the healthcare system for our unique needs."

For Reynolds, volunteering has impacted her personal and professional life in profound ways. "I have built friendships and relationships I otherwise never would have started," she says. "Getting in the weeds, getting your hands dirty, being a servant leader is the BEST way to learn what your city/community needs to enhance your neighbors' lives. Professionally, I have mentors from interns to Csuite that I can call upon for advice, share kudos, and bounce ideas off of. It's a tremendous gift to serve with like-minded people and have them on your 'Personal Board' as a result."

Reynolds' advice for those interested in getting involved with volunteering is simple: "First, think of a topic you are passionate about. Research your local volunteer organizations that support that issue. Attend a volunteer fair or "speed dating" for volunteers. Volunteer on a one-time basis and see what comes of it. Finally, don't forget to thank those who supported you along the way!"

In the end, Reynolds' love for Atlanta shines through. "Atlanta didn't birth me, but it raised me," she says. "I love the diversity of people, food, entertainment, neighborhoods, music, and advocacy work. Atlanta truly does influence everything. I want to be a part of it!"

Feeling inspired by Kat's amazing volunteer work?

You can help others like her continue to make a positive impact in our community by making a donation to Hands On Atlanta, where every $1 donated turns into $6 of economic impact. Click here to donate now.