We’re proud to spotlight Toni Hawes, a dedicated volunteer and Civic Leadership Program Fellow in our 2024-25 cohort. She’s passionate about bridging socioeconomic gaps and finds deep fulfillment in mentoring and serving communities. Toni actively volunteers with Hands On Atlanta and the National Black MBA Association’s Atlanta chapter, focusing on women’s leadership and mentoring programs.

We’re thrilled to celebrate our incredible nonprofit partner, Callanwolde Fine Arts Center. Nestled in the heart of Atlanta, Callanwolde is more than just a place to take an art class, it’s a vibrant hub of creativity, community, and history.

Callanwolde believes that art should be for everyone. That’s why they’re breaking down barriers to access, making sure that world-class programs in dance, music, painting, pottery, and more are within reach for low-income families, veterans, people experiencing housing insecurity, and individuals with disabilities. Their mission isn’t just about teaching art, it’s about building equity, opening doors, and creating a more connected, expressive Atlanta.

As one of our amazing nonprofit partners and a current agency in our Hands On Hunger program, Another Chance of Atlanta Inc. is working every day to meet people where they are and offer the resources they need to thrive. What started as a mission to support women in Atlanta has evolved to not only helping women, but now assisting men, families, veterans and ultimately anyone who may be in need. From providing food and housing in Fulton County to offering permanent supportive housing for veterans in Gwinnett and Clayton counties, their impact runs deep.

I’m thrilled to spotlight volunteer Beverly Rice, a lifelong advocate for literacy and equity who brings her passion and expertise to every volunteer opportunity she takes on.

Beverly generously gives her time to an incredible list of organizations, and she’s committed to creating a more informed, empowered, and connected community.

A former reading specialist of over 20 years, Beverly continues to share her gift by helping others discover the power of reading. And the impact goes both ways, volunteering has deepened her sense of purpose and fulfillment: “To share my gift of reading with so many others helps me to know that my living is not in vain.”

When you see a need in your community, you step up, and that’s exactly what New City Church did nearly 20 years ago when it launched City Bridges Food Pantry. What started as a small outreach effort has grown into a vital resource for over 4,000 families monthly facing food insecurity across Atlanta.

In 2024, the agency distributed nearly 950,000 pounds of food distributed to more than 50,000 people in need. That’s not just food—it’s stability, it’s care, and it’s compassion delivered right to the doorstep of those who need it most.