Christian City is proud to announce that the YMCA of Metro Atlanta, Google and Michael J. Russell, the chief executive officer at H.J. Russell & Company, will be honored at its annual Community Champion Awards, which will take place on Wednesday, April 29 at Georgia Aquarium. These distinguished recipients have been recognized for their outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to the betterment of the Atlanta community. 

Since 2019, the Community Champion Awards has celebrated exceptional individuals, nonprofit organizations and corporations that have made a lasting impact across metro Atlanta. Christian City will recognize each of the 2026 honorees at the Community Champion Awards starting at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 29. Guests will enjoy dinner, entertainment, powerful stories of impact, musical performances as well as live and silent auctions at Georgia Aquarium.

Among the honorees is Google, which has demonstrated a strong commitment to giving back to the Atlanta community through investments in technology, education, and economic development. With a major office in Midtown and a data center in Douglas County, the company plays a key role in the region’s growth while actively supporting local organizations and residents. The YMCA of Metro Atlanta exemplifies community leadership through inclusive, community-centered programs across the region and its partnership with Christian City to expand access to early learning and family support services in South Metro Atlanta. Michael J. Russell is recognized for his influential leadership in Atlanta’s business and civic communities. As chief executive officer of H. J. Russell & Company, he has played a vital role in advancing economic development and community engagement across the region.

“These honorees exemplify what it means to invest in people and community, and we’re honored to celebrate their impact on our region,” said Keith Horton, CEO of Christian City. “Their work reflects the same values that guide Christian City’s commitment to strengthening communities and creating opportunity for generations to come.”

Proceeds from the evening will directly benefit Christian City’s programs that provide vital services to children and families in crisis. Last year, the nonprofit raised $558,000 as it marked six decades of providing housing, healthcare, crisis intervention and community to children, young adults and seniors across its nearly 500-acre campus in South Fulton County.

The Community Champion Awards is made possible through the work of its host committee and its chairs, Serena Levy, president of Southern Gas Company Foundation and Johnny Dixon, CEO and President at Mallory and Evans Development, as well as the generous support of sponsors, including top sponsors, the Ron & Vicki Canakaris Family Foundation, The John & Polly Sparks Foundation, Elaine & John Carlos, Atlanta Gas Light Foundation, Ameris Bank, Coweta Fayette EMC, Delta Air Lines, Mallory & Evans, The Naserian Foundation, PruittHealth and Publix Super Markets Charities.

Past award honorees include Marty Kemp, Bill Rogers, Jr., Egbert Perry, Dan Cathy, Stephanie Blank, Junior League of Atlanta, Peach Bowl, Inc., Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, 100 Black Men of Atlanta, Westside Future Fund, Jackson Healthcare, Atlanta Braves, Norfolk Southern Company, The Home Depot, Delta Airlines, Mayor Andre Dickens, Georgia Power and Goodwill of North Georgia.

Individual tickets will be available soon, and the event’s silent auction will be open to the public, featuring exclusive items and experiences. In addition, a premier package will be offered at the live auction, including a private suite at Mercedes-Benz Stadium for a 2026 FIFA World Cup match.

To attend or sponsor the 2026 Community Champion Awards, visit www.christiancity.org/cca. To learn more about Christian City and its work, visit www.christiancity.org.