Inspire Atlanta is a five-month community impact program that challenges thirty women to create meaningful change, tackle critical issues in the community, champion a fundraising campaign to support AWF, develop their leadership skills, and build a lasting network of fellow female movers and shakers. The philanthropic development program culminated in May with a celebration to honor its participants.

Leading the charge in this record-breaking fundraising endeavor were the following individuals with incredible dedication and passion for the mission of AWF:

• Jesse Breidinger, representing Novelis emerged as the top fundraiser, raising an impressive $61,748.

• Jacky Chaple of Assurant raised $41,308 in donations as the runner-up.

• Lovita Tandy of Krevolin & Horst, LLC, claimed third place, raising $37,779.

• Sara Shockley of Ubique Group was neck-in-neck for third place throughout the program, raising $36,449.

"I was amazed to learn about the true meaning and capabilities of 'philanthropy' through the Inspire Atlanta program," said Jesse Breidinger. "Seeing the transformational change that philanthropy can bring about is truly inspiring, and I look forward to witnessing this ripple effect in the years to come thanks to the incredible women who came together through this program to create a true impact for women and girls living in poverty."

The third annual "Spirit of Inspire" award was presented to Assurant’s Jacky Chaple. She not only achieved second place in fundraising but also served as a significant motivator for her entire class throughout the program. Jacky worked diligently to reach her goals while encouraging her classmates along the way.

"The Atlanta Women's Foundation is a true catalyst for change across the Atlanta community," said Jacky Chaple. "AWF and the Inspire Atlanta program are not just about changing the lives of the women and girls they are supporting; this program changes the lives of every person that goes through the program." 

This year, we introduced two new awards: the Awareness Catalyst Award and the Connection Builder Award. The Awareness Catalyst Award was presented to Sara Shockley, who raised $36,449 and demonstrated remarkable determination and creativity in her fundraising efforts, engaging over 205 individual donors throughout the campaign. The Connection Builder Award was awarded to Lee Burgess Sobel of WSB-TV, who raised $16,896 and played a crucial role in bringing the 2025 Inspire Atlanta class together, facilitating meaningful connections within the group.

"The women who participated in the Inspire Atlanta program have experienced significant personal, professional, and philanthropic growth," says Kari Love, CEO of AWF. "Their remarkable achievements enable AWF to continue its mission of helping all women and girls lead safe, healthy, economically self-sufficient, and vibrant lives. Together, we are building a brighter future for Atlanta."