Hope Atlanta honors NS for delivering hope where it’s needed most

Norfolk Southern President and CEO Mark George accepts the Corporate Hero of the Year Award from Hope Atlanta CEO Julio Carrillo.

Norfolk Southern is proud to be recognized by Hope Atlanta, Georgia’s longest-serving nonprofit dedicated to ending homelessness and hunger. On Oct. 9, NS was named “Corporate Hero of the Year” at the 25th annual Heroes for Hope Gala, a celebration of community impact and resilience.

Why it matters: Hope Atlanta has been a lifeline for those in crisis for 125 years. Last year, Hope Atlanta answered 3,000 calls a month from people in crisis. This year, that number has grown to 15,000 each month.

A legacy of support: During the event, NS announced a $430,000 contribution to support vital efforts to support the nonprofit’s mission. Our relationship with Hope Atlanta is a natural fit—the nonprofit was founded in 1900 by five women at an Atlanta train station. Originally known as Travelers Aid, the organization has evolved into a powerful network of housing, outreach, and prevention services.

The recognition highlights our enterprise-wide efforts to combat housing and food insecurity, which includes year-round volunteering, sponsorships and community advocacy. NS is also providing a 2:1 employee giving match through Nov. 7 for donations toward Hope Atlanta.

Tracks of Hope coming soon: On Nov. 13, NS will host Tracks of Hope, a fundraising train experience aboard our business train. Guests will enjoy dinner and a scenic ride through Atlanta, with all proceeds benefiting Hope Atlanta.

What they’re saying:

“We’re proud to stand alongside Hope Atlanta in their mission to prevent homelessness and hunger, and to provide pathways to stability for our most vulnerable neighbors: veterans, seniors, families, and individuals facing crisis.” — NS President and CEO Mark George

“Homelessness in Atlanta is not just a housing crisis — it is a human crisis. At Hope Atlanta, we walk alongside our neighbors every step of the way, from survival on the streets to stability in housing and ultimately self-sufficiency. Together with partners like Norfolk Southern, we can create pathways that restore dignity, build resilience, and ensure every Atlantan has a place to call home.” — Julio Carrillo, CEO Hope Atlanta