About Town just turned 20 years old. The first event on the cover was the Zoo Gala, raising funds for our zoo. The first event we ever covered was Artwalk downtown. We’ve covered over 1,600 charity fundraisers, and about 80 per year. Each year, we ask our charity contacts if they have any individuals whom they’d like to acknowledge for their service. Here are those individuals.
Doug Corey
WORK
CWT Contracting
CHARITY
Mitchell’s Place
MOTIVATION
I wanted to find a way to give back to our community, and in 2013 I had the opportunity to do that by joining Mitchell’s Place Junior Board. The main vision at Mitchell’s Place is to unlock the potential of children affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder, and the incredible teachers and staff at Mitchell’s Place have been able to do this for more than 2,000 families. It’s an honor to be a part of such an amazing organization.
POSITIVE TAKEAWAYS
Watching our community come together to support our local businesses and organizations.
Stewart Richards
WORK
Centennial
CHARITY
Grace House Ministries
MOTIVATION
I felt a very strong tie to Grace House’s mission of
providing a stable, Christian home for young girls where they can grow into women of strength, faith, and purpose. The success stories of young women who lived at Grace House and have gone on to lead successful, fulfilling lives is truly inspiring.
POSITIVE TAKEAWAYS
I’ve had the pleasure of utilizing my experience as a Human Resources professional to assist Grace House in recruiting for two key positions this year. Giving back to Grace House by using my professional skills is very rewarding, but it’s most exciting to see the growth and development of this incredible ministry front and center!
Maeci Walker
WORK
Christie Strategy Group
CHARITY
The Service Guild of Birmingham; The Bell Center
MOTIVATION
The mission statement and the community work done by
The Service Guild’s 65-year legacy of meaningful service drew me in immediately. Their unwavering commitment to The Bell Center and the chance to work alongside driven, compassionate women made it easy to say yes. It’s rare to join a group where your effort so directly impacts children and families.
POSITIVE TAKEAWAYS
This year, The Bell Center received direct funding from the state’s Education Trust Fund budget for the first time. It’s a powerful acknowledgment of their impact, and I’m hopeful the partnership continues to grow so even more children and families can access life-changing early-intervention services.
Charlie Shah
WORK
Gordon, Dana & Gilmore LLC
CHARITY
Blood Cancer United
MOTIVATION
I became involved with Blood Cancer United after my daughter Maya was diagnosed with leukemia at 17. Their research funding, patient resources, and advocacy work directly impact patients. With Maya now seven years in remission, I want to give back and help other families facing similar challenges through this incredible organization.
POSITIVE TAKEAWAYS
I am honored to now serve as the Chair of the Leadership Committee for the 2026 Alabama Visionaries of the Year campaign at Blood Cancer United. We are building a group of extraordinary individuals to be a part of our campaign to fund our efforts to support blood cancer patients and their families.
Neillie & Tom Butler
WORK
Mariée Ami and Maynard Nexsen
CHARITY
American Cancer Society
MOTIVATION
Cancer has touched our lives in ways that are both heartbreaking and transformative, inspiring us to take action in the fight against this devastating disease.
This opportunity allows us to channel our passion and commitment into supporting an organization that provides hope, resources, and critical advancements in cancer research and patient care.
POSITIVE TAKEAWAYS
Chairing the gala was profoundly humbling. The outpouring of community love and support overwhelmed us, and together we surpassed our $1 million goal, proving the power of unity in the fight against cancer.
Aereal Runyans
WORK
Southern Ketamine & Wellness
Birmingham Anesthesia Management
CHARITY
Mitchell’s Place
MOTIVATION
My connection to Mitchell’s Place began when my son, Coleman, was diagnosed with autism. The care, expertise, and compassion we received profoundly impacted our family. I’m honored to now give back and help ensure other children and families have access to the same transformative resources.
POSITIVE TAKEAWAYS
This year brought so much joy—celebrating 20 years of Mitchell’s Place, supporting events like A Night at the Oscars, and watching kids make huge strides. Seeing the impact Southern Ketamine & Wellness has in the mental-health sphere has been just as inspiring. These moments reaffirm how powerful community and innovation are in changing lives, and I’m grateful to witness both firsthand.
Zac Riddle
WORK
Medical Properties Trust
CHARITY
Alabama Symphony Orchestra
MOTIVATION
I have good memories of going to symphony concerts in the park as a child with my aunt, and I always enjoy hearing the orchestra perform. The orchestra also provides many music education resources as well as other community programs like Music Meets Medicine. We have a world-class orchestra in Birmingham!
POSITIVE TAKEAWAYS
The ASO’s Tune on Tap series presented by Medical Properties Trust and the ASO Junior Patrons combines classical music and a laid-back atmosphere in free concerts at local bars and breweries and brings the orchestra to new audiences in new places.
Virginia Nelson
WORK
Virginia Nelson Design, and Cahaba Brewing Co.
CHARITY
Blood Cancer United
MOTIVATION
I got involved with Blood Cancer United (formally LLS) in honor of my grandfather, William Snyder Brown, who bravely fought CMML. He passed at just 62 from the harsh effects of chemotherapy, and his memory drives my passion to support safer, more effective treatments.
POSITIVE TAKEAWAYS
Being named Birmingham’s Visionary of the Year was such an honor. My incredible team helped raise $80,000, and together with the other Visionaries, we brought in over $240,000 to support research, patient care, and advocacy—all working toward a future free of blood cancer!
Audrey Bence
WORK
Fierce Mom and Advocate
CHARITY
Mitchell’s Place
MOTIVATION
In my most uncertain, overwhelming season, Mitchell’s Place truly saw me. They guided my family through Liam’s diagnoses, connected us to vital services, and stood by us through every challenge. They gave us hope, and that hope is what pulls me back to their mission again and again—to stand with families the way they once stood with us.
POSITIVE TAKEAWAYS
Mitchell’s Place turns overwhelming moments into grounding ones, giving families the confidence to keep fighting. This year I secured Take Flight for my son at his school, connected more parents with life-changing resources, and built the foundation for my nonprofit. Their unwavering support helps our community rise and empowers us to help others rise too.
Avani Patel
WORK
Avani Rupa Fine Jewelers
CHARITY
Baptist Health Foundation
MOTIVATION
With my father serving as a physician at Baptist for over 30 years, I grew up walking the hospital halls. Witnessing his dedication to our community left a profound mark on me. That legacy of compassionate care is exactly why I am proud to be a servant leader for the Baptist Health Foundation.
POSITIVE TAKEAWAYS
Serving as the 2026 Chair for Wine Women & Shoes, my greatest takeaway is the incredible bond our committee has formed. It is a blessing to build community together while pursuing our shared goal: raising funds to provide essential care for patients and opportunities for staff at the BHS.
Elise Mikell
WORK
Co-Owner of Brileys Trucking LLC.
CHARITY
Smile-A-Mile
MOTIVATION
I’m inspired by the resilience of children facing cancer and driven by my own experience with a sibling fighting illness. Supporting Smile A Mile lets me bring hope and comfort to families during their toughest battles. It’s a compassionate, life-changing organization I’m proud to be part of.
POSITIVE TAKEAWAYS
This year reminded me how powerful community can be. Whether keeping trucks on the road or supporting children battling cancer, teamwork and compassion turned challenges into meaningful outcome. It’s proof that even in tough times; small effort, done together, can create a lasting impact.
Lucas Lopez
WORK
Baker Donelson
CHARITY
First Light
MOTIVATION
I was drawn to First Light because of its impact on people in need. After moving to Birmingham and learning about its work through colleagues, supporting an organization that provides critical help to our community felt like an easy and meaningful choice.
POSITIVE TAKEAWAYS
As VP of First Light Young Partners (the Junior Board), helping raise over $160,000 at Dancing with the Stars of the Magic City was incredible. Seeing the community unite and every team shine on stage at the Lyric was truly inspiring.
Ellen King
WORK
Norris Paving & Asphalt, Inc.
CHARITY
Junior League of Birmingham
MOTIVATION
I was drawn to the Junior League because it develops women as leaders while meeting real needs in our community. It’s purposeful service with meaningful impact and you get to do it alongside inspiring women who care deeply about Birmingham.
POSITIVE TAKEAWAYS
Serving as JLB President has been a true honor. I’ve loved building meaningful relationships and working alongside our Executive Board to move the League forward. Seeing our mission in action as women lead, serve, and collaborate to make a meaningful impact in Birmingham has been incredibly inspiring.
Dessilyn Chappell
WORK
University of West Alabama
CHARITY
Junior League of Birmingham
MOTIVATION
I was raised by a mother with a servant heart. In college I always enjoyed volunteering, then I became busy with my career. I made a friend that spoke so highly of the Junior League and what they were doing in the community, and I knew I had to join!
POSITIVE TAKEAWAYS
This year I feel that I have taken the role of encourager in my areas of leadership. I have been intentional with pouring into others. My goal is that if I allow an overflow within others that they will also begin to pour into those around them and the ripples will help make change.
Katy Killion
WORK
Full-time Parent
CHARITY
Junior League of Birmingham
MOTIVATION
I initially joined the Junior League of Birmingham to channel my passion for community service into a structured, highly effective organization for women leaders. I was particularly interested in having an outlet that allowed me to both serve the community and obtain training and leadership opportunities.
POSITIVE TAKEAWAYS
For me, the most rewarding experience with the Junior League this year has been helping members balance leveraging their existing strengths while simultaneously pushing them to master new leadership skills. The JLB is the perfect place to both contribute with existing skills and develop additional abilities.
Alana Frederick
WORK
United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit
CHARITY
Junior League of Birmingham
MOTIVATION
The JLB has made such a remarkable impact in our community and I wanted to be a part of that—to join the incredible network of women who work tirelessly to give back and make a positive, lasting impression in the city.
POSITIVE TAKEAWAYS
Through my involvement with the JLB, I have created positive change, learned new skills, and bettered the community—all while building meaningful relationships with the other amazing ladies comprising our membership.
Shanika Gibson
WORK
Regions Bank
CHARITY
Junior League of Birmingham
MOTIVATION
I’ve always desired to learn more, do more and have an opportunity to develop myself in the process with like minded women while also making a positive impact on the community.
POSITIVE TAKEAWAYS
My favorite two quotes – 1)The mercy you show others will be the mercy you receive. 2)Then always remember, you don’t have to be GREAT to start but you have to START to be GREAT.
Laura Katherine Crum
WORK
Medical Properties Trust
CHARITY
PreSchool Partners
MOTIVATION
I grew up hearing stories about my grandmother Jeannette Hancock’s role in starting PreSchool Partners, and what’s kept me involved is seeing its impact today. I’m drawn to causes that create real, generational change. The program doesn’t just prepare children for school – it gives families tools for lifelong confidence and stability.
POSITIVE TAKEAWAYS
PreSchool Partners’ mission goes beyond the child, impacting more than 1,750 families over the past 30 years. Seeing results like 100% of parents reporting a stronger relationship with their child by the end of the school year is continued proof that PSP’s model works.
Patrick Robinson
WORK
Capital Payments
CHARITY
UpLift
MOTIVATION
I started UPLIFT to give back to people who need support the most. UPLIFT believes in face-to-face generosity. Meeting people who’ve been overlooked, listening to their stories, and providing what they truly need, from essentials to financial help, transportation, lodging, or job support. Our mission is to build a world where kindness is impossible to ignore, and where no one struggling ever feels forgotten.
POSITIVE TAKEAWAYS
This year has reminded me more than ever how fortunate I am, and how important it is to slow down and appreciate what truly matters, family. UPLIFT extends that same perspective. Every person we help had a family once, too. Giving back honors that shared humanity.
Patrick Weatherly
WORK
ServisFirst Bank
CHARITY
Coastal Conservation Association
MOTIVATION
At CCA we have the best people, a simple mission and we throw the biggest & baddest crawfish boil in the state. Our mission is to conserve, protect and improve the coastal fisheries of our state’s coastline. I was bitten by the “Fishing Bug” at an early age, and I just want to make sure that my daughter has the same opportunities.
POSITIVE TAKEAWAYS
At the Crawfest 2025 we had a record year of corporate sponsors and over 1200 people attend. We continue funding our partnership with South Alabama’s Stokes School of Marine and Environmental Sciences. Specifically in the form of scholarships and initiatives to better understand the behaviors of our sportfish population.
Robert Fritze
WORK
Fritze Financial
CHARITY
Coastal Conservation Association
MOTIVATION
Growing up fishing on the gulf coast are some of my best memories. I would love to make the same memories with my wife and children so working with a charity that is focused on the habitat and sustainability of the fisheries on the gulf coast was very attractive to me.
POSITIVE TAKEAWAYS
After being in a leadership role for several years and growing The CCA Crawfest, we were able to transition to new leadership and continue to grow even though the event faced outside factors that went against us.
Chambers Joyce
WORK
Red Rock Realty Group
CHARITY
Coastal Conservation Association
MOTIVATION
Growing up, the CCA event was something I always looked forward to. In high school I joined the Junior Board, helping raise money through ticket sales and assisting with preparations for the annual Birmingham Zoo event. It’s been a privilege to stay involved and support the cause.
POSITIVE TAKEAWAYS
At our annual fundraiser the money raised goes toward things like reef-building efforts, improved marine research equipment, and scholarships for students studying at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab. These contributions support healthier coastal habitats across Alabama and help shape the next generation of conservation-minded leaders.
Kolby Sturdivant
WORK
The Bell Center
CHARITY
Children’s Harbor
MOTIVATION
I was drawn to Children’s Harbor because of the way they enhance the quality of life for families who are experiencing life changing medical circumstances. The services offered by Children’s Harbor offer relief and respite in such tangible and necessary ways and are provided at no cost to the families.
POSITIVE TAKEAWAYS
Volunteering with the junior board at the Family Center has allowed me to connect with families who benefit from the resources provided by Children’s Harbor. It has been such a joy getting to hang out with them and hear their stories. These activity nights are the highlight of my month!
Allie Hendrix
WORK
Children’s Harbor
CHARITY
Children’s Harbor
MOTIVATION
I admire their whole-family approach, creating space at their two locations for children with illnesses, their siblings, and parents to connect with others walking in their shoes. They stop at nothing to provide counseling, camp experiences, and accessible amenities at no cost — rare, yet absolutely necessary for families facing unimaginable challenges.
POSITIVE TAKEAWAYS
I used to believe that impact meant touching many lives at once — a daily reality at Children’s Harbor. Yet at one Junior Board craft night, we prepared for a crowd, and only one mom showed up. That one-on-one time let her relax and open up, reminding me that impacting even one life is profoundly meaningful.
Ella Brannen Dean
WORK
UAB Periodontal Resident
CHARITY
Children’s Harbor
MOTIVATION
Children’s Harbor provides exceptional resources and meaningful experiences for seriously ill children and their families. It has been a true privilege to become part of the Children’s Harbor community and to participate in furthering their mission.
POSITIVE TAKEAWAYS
This year, we served a record number of children in the Family Center at Children’s of Alabama and at our Lake Campus, and we exceeded our goal at our Junior Board’s signature fundraising event. It is incredibly encouraging to witness this organization’s growth and to know that we are expanding our ability to support even more families in need.
