Tag Archive for: charity

FOURTH ANNUAL SPARK 5K

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 4/3/26

Fourth Annual Spark 5K Unites Atlanta for Fun, High-Energy Celebration of Community, Inclusion and Friendly Competition

Race raises funds to empower people with disabilities and transform child literacy

The Spark 5K, presented by Roark, returns to Piedmont Park on Thursday, April 30 at 6:30 p.m. ET for its fourth annual celebration of community, movement, and purpose. More than a race, this high-energy evening combines fun, fitness and a spirited corporate challenge all to raise funds supporting two impactful nonprofit partners: The Kyle Pease Foundation and Malcolm Mitchell’s Share the Magic Foundation.

An event that has continued to grow in both number of participants and amount raised over the last three years, the Spark 5K welcomes runners, walkers, in-chair athletes and supporters from across the Atlanta area to enjoy an inclusive course through Piedmont Park. Whether you’re chasing a personal best, strolling with friends, simply enjoying a night at the park, or cheering from the sidelines, this event is designed for participants of all abilities.

The event will also be continuing its tradition as a dynamic corporate challenge, rallying Atlanta-based companies to show their team spirit while connecting employees outside the office to make a lasting difference in our community. Businesses of all sizes are encouraged to join forces, register their teams at Spark5K.com, and compete for awards recognizing the most spirited, creative, and engaged groups.

Race beneficiaries, The Kyle Pease Foundation continues to champion opportunities for inclusion, ensuring in-chair athletes have a place in sports while working to enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities, and Share the Magic Foundation remains dedicated to changing lives through literacy, bringing joy and educational empowerment to children facing challenges.

“The Spark 5K represents everything our foundation believes in – inclusion, teamwork, perseverance, and the power of community,” said Kyle Pease, Co-Founder and Director of Inclusion at The Kyle Pease Foundation. “We’re excited to be part of this annual event yet again, and seeing our athletes, corporate teams, families and friends is incredibly powerful. It truly shows how much stronger our community becomes when we rally for a shared purpose.”

Atlanta natives Kyle Pease and Malcolm Mitchell, along with former University of Georgia quarterback Aaron Murray, as well as other local athletes and corporate representatives will all be on hand to celebrate the event. All registered participants will receive a Spark 5K branded tee and enjoy refreshments at the finish line, with prizes awarded to standout individuals and company teams, and delectable offerings from McAlister’s Deli and Dave’s Hot Chicken awaiting participants at the finish line.

“The Spark 5K continues to be a powerful reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together with purpose,” said Malcolm Mitchell, Founder and CEO of Share the Magic Foundation. “Each year, this event grows not just in size, but in impact—helping us reach more children, inspire more readers, and create more opportunities through literacy. We’re proud to once again partner with Roark and The Kyle Pease Foundation to turn collective energy into meaningful change.”

Registration is open for individuals, school teams, run clubs, and corporate teams at Spark5K.com, so lace up your sneakers, rally your team, and join Atlantans for an evening where every step matters. See you at the starting line on Thursday, April 30 at 6:30 p.m. ET!

“At Roark, helping people and companies reach their full potential also means investing in the communities where we live and work,” said Allison Hill, Chief Social Impact and Content Officer at Roark. “Last year, more than 700 participants joined the Spark 5K and helped raise $172,000 for two incredible Atlanta nonprofits. Just as meaningful, the event brought colleagues, partners and friends from across the business community together outside the office. We’re excited to build on that momentum this year and welcome even more teams for an evening of connection, camaraderie and impact.”

SPRING GIRLS ON THE RUN 5K

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/13/26

Spring Girls on the Run 5K presented by Assurant

Sunday April 26, 2026

Cheney Stadium (741 Connally Street SE, Atlanta, GA 30315)


Details:

The Girls on the Run 5K presented by Assurant is not your typical community event – it’s a day when Girls on the Run and Heart & Sole teams from across Georgia unite and amplify each other’s Star Power.


This non-competitive 5K event is open to the public, not just program participants, with all proceeds benefiting the Girls on the Run Georgia Scholarship Fund. Join us as we celebrate the brave first steps that lead to life-changing journeys. Come run, walk, or cheer and be inspired by participants who have spent the season building confidence, setting goals, and believing in themselves. 

Every start is worth celebrating!
5K Festival opens – 8 am
Girls on the Run 5K presented by Assurant – 9:30 am
Tot Trot – 10:45 am
5K Festival ends – 11:30 am

Cost:

$30 (through March 22)

$35 (March 23 – April 22)

$40 (April 24 – 26 In-Person)


For more information:

https://www.girlsontherunga.org/5Kinfo@girlsontherunga.org

(404) 478-6558

GRANT PARK CONSERVANCY’S CANOPY SOIRÉE RETURNS FOR A NIGHT OUT IN SUPPORT OF ATLANTA’S OLDEST PARK

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/3/26

An Evening of Music, Dancing, Cocktails and Community at Savanna Hall at Zoo Atlanta

Friday, March 27, 2026 | 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Spring in Atlanta comes with a certain energy. Windows open. Music gets louder. And on Friday, March 27, the sixth annual Canopy Soirée brings that energy straight to Savanna Hall at Zoo Atlanta for a night dedicated to Grant Park, the city’s oldest public park and a cornerstone of the community.

Hosted by the Grant Park Conservancy, the 21+ celebration is equal parts dance floor, cocktail party, and community love letter. Expect music that keeps the room moving, an open bar, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and a raffle that raises the stakes, all while overlooking the zoo’s popular African Savanna.

Behind the music and celebration is a clear purpose: ensuring the park continues to thrive long after the last song ends. In the past year alone, the Conservancy has delivered meaningful improvements across Grant Park, from a new playground and signature Southeast Quadrant entrance to the reclaimed Abana Courtyard and expanded greenspace at Erskine Fountain. Athletic spaces have been revitalized with resurfaced basketball courts and a vibrant plaza serving basketball, pickleball, and tennis players. Native gardens now flourish at Constitution Spring and Loomis Plaza, while habitat restoration continues at the Cherokee Wetlands and the Pond. Newly installed interpretive signage shares deeper stories about the park’s layered history.

Funds raised at the 2026 Canopy Soirée will support the Milledge Fountain Outdoor Classroom and Theatre, the new GPC Park Care Center, year-round ecological care, and the beloved Summer Shade Festival. Community fundraising events like this make transformative projects possible while ensuring that Atlanta’s oldest public park remains vibrant, welcoming, and resilient.

Individual tickets, Host Committee packages, and VIP tables to the 2026 Canopy Soirée are now available for guests ages 21 and older. Tickets and sponsorship information are available at www.gpconservancy.org/events-programs/canopy-soiree. For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Nikki Zimmerman at nzimmerman@gpconservancy.org.

THE 42ND ANNUAL HUNGER WALK RUN

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 2/26/26

STEP UP TO FIGHT HUNGER WITH THE ATLANTA COMMUNITY FOOD BANK


Registration NOW OPEN for the annual Hunger Walk Run happening on March 15

Prepare to get in your steps and fight food insecurity with the annual Hunger Walk Run, benefiting the Atlanta Community Food Bank and five other local hunger relief organizations. In its 42nd year, the community event is scheduled for Sunday, March 15, 2026, from Noon to 4 pm at The Home Depot Backyard (1 Backyard Way, Atlanta, GA 30313). The hybrid 5K event also offers a virtual option. Registration and donation opportunities are now open.


Every registration makes a big impact. Each person who registers to walk is helping provide 90 meals, and each runner is helping provide 120 meals for their neighbors. Since its start in 1984, the Hunger Walk Run has raised more than $16 million for hunger relief, enough to provide more than 48 million meals. Individuals of all ages and abilities are welcome to take part in the family-friendly 5K. Participants may join as an individual, family, group, or team. The Walk Run festivities
include music, food vendors, warm-ups, and more! A dedicated Kids Zone offers bounce houses, slides, interactive characters, age-appropriate learning opportunities, and other fun for the youngest attendees. The event happens rain or shine.

“Hunger Walk Run is a highly anticipated event that rallies thousands from our community to take steps toward fighting hunger,” said Kyle Waide, President & CEO of the Atlanta Community Food Bank. “Every person who participates, whether on-site or virtually, helps make a difference, and their support enables the Food Bank and other benefitting organizations to connect our neighbors in need with nutritious food and vital resources.”


The Atlanta Community Food Bank is facing the highest demand for food assistance since the pandemic, making this year’s event more critical than ever. Participants can join in person or virtually to support the cause.

Go Virtual

The virtual Hunger Walk Run allows you to participate anywhere, anytime. Every step counts on March 15 or whenever runners and walkers want to get involved. The event page features outdoor trails that participants may visit — or walking in your neighborhood, on your treadmill, or spinning on your bike are other great ways to show support!


Participants are encouraged to keep the energy of Hunger Walk Run going by posting photos, tagging the Food Bank (@ACFB on Instagram and Twitter), using the hashtag HRW2026, and sharing why you support the cause.

Register Now


Online registration is available through 12 pm on Friday, March 13. The rates for online registration are $30 for walkers, $40 for runners, $25 for virtual participants who pick up their shirts, and $32 for virtual participants who wish to have their shirts mailed to them. Walk-up registration will also be available for an additional $5 per entry type. For more information about the Hunger Walk Run, email hungerwalk@acfb.org or call (404) 419-1723.


The Atlanta Community Food Bank is the Southeast’s largest food bank and, throughout the year, connects thousands of people with healthy and nutritious food. The organization works with more than 700 nonprofit partners to help fight food insecurity in the communities its serves. For more information about the Atlanta Community Food Bank, including how to help, visit https://www.acfb.org or follow them on Facebook or Instagram.

GIRLS ON THE RUN PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT PRESENTED BY VACATION READY PROPERTIES

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 1/18/26

Date: March 27

Time: 6 – 9 PM

Location: ITP Training Academy (3110 Presidential Dr, Atlanta, GA 30340)

Website:https://www.girlsontherunga.org/pickleball

Join us for our 3rd Annual Pickleball Tournament presented by Vacation Ready Properties! Hosted by our Young Professionals Board, this fun evening event is the perfect mix of friendly competition and social gathering all for a great cause.

Whether you’re playing, cheering, or just here to enjoy the atmosphere, grab your friends and come out for a night of connection, community, and pickleball fun.

All proceeds benefit the Girls on the Run Scholarship Fund, helping ensure every girl who wants to participate in our program has the opportunity.

Come play, socialize, and support girls across Georgia. Let’s rally for confidence, connection, and joy on and off the court!

GIRLS ON THE RUN 5K EVENT

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 10/23/25

We invite you to join us for the Girls on the Run 5K on Saturday, December 6, at Cheney Stadium. This event celebrates the girls who participated in our program this season, recognizing their growth, the lessons they’ve learned, the obstacles they’ve overcome, and the confidence they’ve developed.


The 5K is an untimed, non-competitive event where participants are encouraged to run, walk, jump, or skip their way to the finish line in an atmosphere of excitement, positivity, and celebration.


More importantly, your participation supports the Girls on the Run Georgia Scholarship Fund. Proceeds from this uplifting event allow more girls to participate in our program next season, helping to keep the Girls on the Run spark alive for girls across the metro Atlanta, North Georgia, and Athens areas. We are confident this event will leave you feeling inspired long after you’ve crossed the finish line.

Location: Cheney Stadium, 741 Connally Street SE, Atlanta, GA 30315

5K Festival opens – 8 am

Girls on the Run 5K – 9:30 am
Tot Trot – 10:45 am
5K Festival ends – 11:30 am
Link: https://www.pinwheel.us/register/index/GOTRGA-5K-Fall-2025 

RAISE A GLASS WHILE RAISING SPIRITS: TASTE OF GENEROSITY RETURNS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/4/25

Mark Your Calendar for a Bourbon & Botanicals Fundraising Experience Friday, Aug. 15

Benefiting the Georgia Chapter of the National MS Society

Get ready to sip, savor, and support a powerful cause: the Georgia Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society is proud to present the second annual Taste of Generosity: Bourbon + Botanicals, a one-of-a-kind bourbon experience with a mission. Taking place Friday, Aug. 15 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., at Atlanta’s award-winning Stave Roomand ASW Whiskey Exchange, this immersive evening will bring together tastemakers, philanthropists, and flavor seekers for a bold night of cocktails, community, and giving back. 

This year’s event – Exploring Bourbon + Botanicals – takes center stage with curated tastings from 30+ national and local brands, plus handcrafted cocktails, mocktails, and zero-proof elixirs that ensure everyone gets in on the experience. Guests can expect Southern-inspired bites from standout Atlanta restaurants like Auburn Angel, Mission + Market, The White Bull, Alici, Grana and Arrivato to name a few, alongside pours from top beverage partners like, Four Roses, Buzzards Roost Spirits, Brown Forman, Distillery of Modern Art, Blue Note Bourbon, Anteel Tequila, Brugal 1888, Frederick Wildman, Frey Ranch, New Realm, and Penelope joining the lineup for the first time in 2025. The evening will also feature live music and a vibrant, high-energy atmosphere that’s anything but ordinary. 

“Taste of Generosity is a reflection of what makes this community so powerful,” says Rachael Fenich, President & Executive Director of the National MS Society’s Georgia Chapter. “It’s not just the generosity – it’s the grit, the heart, and the belief that connection drives progress. Because of nights like this, families like mine have found support, researchers have found breakthroughs, and people living with MS have found hope. That’s what we’re really toasting to.” 

But this isn’t just a tasting – it’s a movement. 

Here’s what’s on the menu:

  • 🍹Three Ticket Levels, Endless Flavor
    • Classic Admission: Jump on the Classic Tasting Trail with pours of premium bourbons, spirits, and wines from top beverage partners – plus a custom Taste of Generosity souvenir tasting cup to remember the night.
    • VIP: Enjoy all Classic perks, with early access at 6:30 p.m., an exclusive pass to the ASW Private Tasting Room, and a souvenir rocks glass to elevate your home bar.
    • ASW VIP+: For the true bourbon buff – early entry at 6:00 p.m., private ASW distillery tour, and all VIP benefits included. (SOLD OUT)
  • 🥃 The Bottle Pull Returns
     Guests will have the chance to score rare and exclusive bottles of bourbon, wine, and more in the high-energy bottle pull – one of the event’s most popular experiences.
  • 🎁Silent + Live Auctions
     Bid on unforgettable experiences, trips, and treasures with all proceeds supporting the MS Society’s mission to end MS forever. The silent auction opens early on Friday, Aug. 8 at 6 p.m., featuring an exciting mix of experiences and treasures, including:
    • The Vineyard Wine Market’s Wine Tasting for Twelve
    • Autographed Stephen Castle Jersey – 2025 NBA Rookie of the Year and 2024 NCAA Men’s Basketball Champion
    • High West A Midwinter Night’s Dram – Act 3
    • Checkerboard Barrel Head Side Table by Shandrick’s Barrel Creations
    • Joseph Magnus Cigar Blend Bourbon
  • 🎤Honoring Community Champions
     At 8:15 p.m., the spotlight will shine on this year’s Honorary Chairs:
    • Kaleb McGary, Atlanta Falcons offensive lineman
    • Matthew Drooker, Chief Technology Officer of The Weather Company
    • And honoree Keyon Emami, a medical student and MS advocate

The event is co-chaired by Tara Murphy, founder of 360 Media and publisher of The Atlanta 100, who is a chapter Board of Trustees member, lives with MS and brings her fierce energy and creative drive to the cause. “Taste of Generosity is about more than bourbon,” says Murphy. “It’s about raising our glasses – and our voices – for people living with MS. It’s about joy, connection, and impact to help raise awareness, funds and hope for a different future. The progress made through research, disease modifying therapies and support by donations from events like this will absolutely one day put an end to MS.”

Taste of Generosity is made possible by the unwavering support of Barrel Proof Presenting Sponsor RNDC (Republic National Distributing Company) and Mara and Bill Holley as well as a host of other sponsors and restaurant and beverage partners who share the vision for a world free of MS.

Tickets are going fast – visit here to purchase.

This year, the National MS Society is also proud to partner with the Buckhead Business Association. Proceeds from the BBA’s signature Taste of Buckhead event, taking place Oct. 31, at the Grand Hyatt Atlanta in Buckhead, will benefit the MS Society’s own Taste of Generosity campaign – bringing two vibrant Atlanta traditions together in support of one powerful mission.

DRAGON CON SELECTS NAMI GEORGIA AS ITS OFFICIAL 2025 CHARITY

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 7/13/25

Significant Mental Health Issues Across Georgia

Demands Increased Investment in Awareness and Support

Dragon Con, Atlanta’s internationally known pop culture, sci fi, fantasy, and gaming convention, has selected mental health advocacy and education organization NAMI Georgia as its 2025 official charity.

Many Georgians struggle with mental health challenges without access to the care they need, making it critical to invest in resources that support well-being, resilience, and recovery across our communities. In fact, approximately 1.4 million adults in Georgia experience mental illness annually, yet only 41 percent receive treatment.

NAMI Georgia is a leading voice on mental health in the state, working to raise awareness, provide support, and advocate for those affected by mental illness. They empower more than 18 local affiliates to offer advocacy, education, support, and public awareness to improve the lives of individuals and families dealing with mental health challenges.

Through convention-based auctions, special merchandise sales, special events, plus a dollar-for-dollar match from the convention, Dragon Con raised $300,000 in 2024 for the Georgia chapter of the Arthritis Foundation. Over the last decade, the convention has consistently raised more than $100,000 for each of its annual official charities – and more than $200,000 in each of the past four years – for a total of more than $1.48 million donated to Atlanta-based charities since 2015.

“What makes Dragon Con truly remarkable isn’t the costumes or the panels – it’s the heart of our community,” said Pat Henry, president of Dragon Con, Inc. “Every year, our fans rally behind a new cause, showing up with incredible generosity and a spirit of giving that inspires us all. Their support for local charities is a powerful reminder of what this community stands for.”

Dragon Con 2025 is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 28 to Monday, Sept. 1 in downtown Atlanta. The convention attracts more than 75,000 pop culture fans from all 50 states and several foreign countries who come to Dragon Con to meet their favorite actors, creators, and experts, show off their latest cosplay, make new friends, and revel in the joy that is Dragon Con.

For more information about NAMI Georgia, visit https://namiga.org/ or follow them on your favorite social media platform.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL ATLANTA TO HOST “PAR-TEE FOR A PURPOSE” BENEFITING CAMP PEACH PALS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 7/7/25

A Spirited Evening of Light Bites, Music, Prizes, a Silent Auction, and More

Thursday, July 10, 2025 from| 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta invites the community to swing into summer for a good cause at Par-tee for a Purpose, a lively fundraising event in support of Camp Peach Pals, its signature program benefiting children affected by cancer. Taking place on Thursday, July 10, 2025, from 5 to 7 p.m., the spirited evening will feature light bites, refreshing drinks, music, surprise giveaways, and a robust silent auction—all hosted at the iconic Midtown property.

With a suggested donation of $50, guests will gain access to this meaningful celebration of joy, generosity, and community. RSVP here to be part of the festivities.

From July 23 to 26, the property will once again transform into a city-based summer camp for children ages 6 to 13 who have experienced a cancer diagnosis in their family. Guest rooms become cozy cabins, meeting spaces turn into dining halls and activity zones, and days are filled with talent shows, crafts, music, and more led by trained volunteers and supported by medical professionals.

Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta is located at 75 Fourteenth Street NE, Atlanta, GA. For more information, visit www.fourseasons.com/atlanta. Stay connected via Instagram at @fsatlanta.

OPEN HAND RETURNS WITH 22ND ANNUAL PARTY IN THE KITCHEN FUNDRAISER

Thursday, September 25th

Celebrated chefs, curated bites and one powerful cause come together for Open Hand Atlanta’s signature fundraising event

Open Hand invites supporters to the 22nd annual Party in the Kitchen on Thursday, Sept. 25, from 6:30 – 10:30 p.m. at The Foundry at Puritan Mill. One of Atlanta’s most anticipated culinary fundraisers, this dynamic evening will spotlight the city’s top chefs while raising vital funds to support Open Hand’s mission of building healthier communities through nutrition.

The event will feature an impressive lineup of culinary talent, craft cocktails, chef-curated tastings, live and silent auctions and musical entertainment by The American Flyers. Returning renowned chefs Peter Kaiser and Kevin Rathbun will serve as chef co-chairs, joined by new event co-chairs Marc Castillo, Heather Froy and Victor Macias.

“We’re incredibly grateful to have some of Atlanta’s most talented chefs come together once again in support of Open Hand’s mission,” said Open Hand CEO Matthew Pieper. “Their generosity and passion help fuel the vital work we do — delivering thousands of nourishing meals to the neighbors who need them most.”

Guests will enjoy signature bites from celebrated chefs, including Terry Koval (The Deer and The Dove), Pat Pascarella (The Porchetta Group) and Tyler Haake (Indaco), along with the opportunity to bid on exclusive auction packages—ranging from luxury getaways and private dinners to one-of-a-kind experiences and more.

Prior to the main event, Open Hand will host a VIP Patron Reception on Thursday, Aug. 21, from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. at its recently opened headquarters, the James A. Carlos Family Community Nutrition Center. Patron-level guests and sponsors will enjoy cocktails, light bites, the chance to bid on an exclusive live auction item and an opportunity to see first-hand how their contributions make an impact on their community.

Proceeds from Party in the Kitchen directly support Open Hand’s programs, which provide medically tailored meals and nutrition education to individuals living with chronic or severe illness, food insecurity and social isolation across Georgia.

Tickets to the Main Event are $300, while the Patron Reception Package (includes two tickets) starts at $2,000 and provides access to both events. Main Event ticket price increases to $350 after Aug. 25.


For more information or to purchase tickets, visit OpenHandAtlanta.org/PITK.