The Atlanta Hawks and Be The People, a nationwide movement launching at America’s 250th anniversary that connects community problem solvers with millions of Americans ready to do their part, announced an initiative called Atlanta Changemakers, a multi-channel civic pride and community engagement program rooted in Atlanta’s legacy of contribution. Through compelling storytelling, in-arena events and service activities encouraging Georgians to make a difference in their communities, the campaign aims to unite Atlanta and transform fan enthusiasm into meaningful action.

Debuted on MLK Day 2026 during the Atlanta Hawks’ Martin Luther King Jr. Day Game, Atlanta Changemakers taps into Atlanta’s deep-rooted history of leadership, civic engagement, and cultural influence. It connects that legacy to modern-day changemakers who are shaping the city today, including Dr. King’s eldest son, Martin Luther King III and his wife, Arndrea Waters King, who both attended the MLK Day Game and were honored as the first Atlanta Changemaker. Through their Realize The Dream, initiative, Martin Luther King III and Arndrea Waters King are inviting Americans to Be The People by contributing 100 million hours of service by 2029, the year that would have marked Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s 100th birthday.

“Atlanta has always been a city shaped by people who chose to get involved, not stand on the sidelines,” said Martin Luther King III and Arndrea Waters King. “Atlanta Changemakers honors that tradition by reminding us that real progress comes from everyday acts of service, leadership, and courage. This campaign invites all of us to take responsibility for the communities we love and to move Dr. King’s vision forward through action.”

Atlanta Changemakers will feature a three-part, documentary-style video series produced by Hawks Studios, spotlighting individuals who embody contribution and community impact. The first video in the series highlights Martin Luther King III and Arndrea Waters King, and their nationwide service initiative, Realize The Dream, which is rooted in the power of service and community.

Another Changemaker will be selected through a community-wide nomination process. Fans will be invited to nominate changemakers beginning on MLK Day through February 24, 2026. The grand prize winner will receive recognition as an Atlanta Changemaker during the Entitlement Night Hawks home game on April 6, 2026, and a premium suite experience at an Atlanta Hawks home game during the 2026-2027 season for the winner and up to nine guests. Nominations can be submitted at: www.bethepeople.org/atlchangemakers.

“We are proud to partner with Be The People in celebrating changemakers who make Atlanta stronger,” said Melissa Proctor, Chief Marketing Officer for the Atlanta Hawks and State Farm Arena. “We encourage our fans to submit nominations to help us recognize a standout leader who is influencing our city’s future in a positive way.” 

The campaign builds upon the Atlanta Hawks and State Farm Arena’s ongoing social impact partnership with Stand Together, a philanthropic community that helps America's boldest changemakers tackle the root causes of our country's biggest problems. This partnership aims to harness the power of sports, entertainment, and culture to connect fans and the Atlanta community in meaningful ways.

“Atlanta has a long history of leading by example and showing what’s possible when people come together around shared purpose,” said Colette Weintraub, Head of Stand Together Music, Sports & Entertainment. “Atlanta Changemakers elevates the incredible impact Atlantans are already making every day, channeling the city’s deep civic pride through the power of sports, culture, and storytelling. By spotlighting local community leaders, we’re inviting fans to see themselves in that impact. Now in our second season partnering with the Atlanta Hawks and State Farm Arena as their Social Impact Partner, Stand Together is proud to help amplify Atlanta’s leadership and celebrate the strength of a city that inspires people from all walks of life across the country."

At the heart of the campaign is a powerful message: Atlanta has always moved forward because of people who show up for one another. The campaign celebrates that enduring spirit while reminding fans that everyday actions still matter. For more information, please visit: www.bethepeople.org/atlchangemakers.