Celebrating International Volunteer Day: Piedmont teams living our values of caring and community
Across the operation, Piedmont team members continue to show what it means to care for our communities in meaningful and lasting ways. International Volunteer Day, recognized annually on December 5, honors the individuals and organizations who give their time, talents, and energy to support others. It serves as a global reminder of the impact volunteerism can have and the positive change created when people come together with purpose. Over the past several weeks, teams across Piedmont have demonstrated that spirit of service through efforts that strengthen, support, and connect the communities we proudly serve.
Our Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) hubs showed outstanding spirit in the Operation Shoebox Candy Challenge, collecting more than 219 lbs of candy for deployed service members. CLT led the way with an incredible 151.8 lbs, while PHX followed with an impressive 67.6 lbs, all of which will be included in care packages that send a sweet reminder of home to those who serve. Operation Shoebox was thrilled to hear about their contributions, and both hubs should be proud of the generosity, teamwork, and impact this effort represents.
That same community spirit continued to be on full display at the American Eagle Training Center in CLT, where the American Regional Training team led a food drive benefiting Second Harvest Food Bank. Thanks to the team’s dedication, donation bins overflowed with essentials for families in need. After sorting and boxing everything up, team members delivered the contributions to the food bank, completing a collective act of generosity that will directly support neighbors in need.
That same commitment to community was also visible at Pitt Greenville Airport (PGV), where the PGV Ramp team volunteered at the inaugural Race the Runway 5K and Fun Run. The event welcomed participants of all abilities, including members of Ainsley’s Angels of America, highlighting the importance of accessibility and inclusion. Piedmont team members were there from the start, offering support to runners, walkers, and adaptive athletes and helping create an event where everyone felt welcomed and encouraged. Keysha Smithwick, General Manger at PGV said “As a leader, it was great to see team members take time out of their day to come out and support a good cause. Some agents were scheduled off for this event, so this speaks volumes. It was also good to fellowship with the team outside of work.”
At Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF), the team volunteered at the Virginia Peninsula Food Bank to pack groceries for local senior citizens. In just over two hours, the group packed an impressive 360 boxes, each weighing 30 pounds. “The team is excited to continue giving back, with another volunteer event scheduled for Monday, November 24, and plans to make this a monthly tradition,” said Derek Palazzone, PHF General Manager.
In Charlotte, the Finance Department continued this momentum through the Old Terminal Food Drive. Recognizing the increased need families often face in November, the team rallied together to donate one hundred fifteen items totaling one hundred nine pounds of food. Their contributions are helping provide nutritious meals to households in the region, reinforcing that every can, box, and bag can make a meaningful difference.
Team members at Fayetteville Regional Airport (FAY) came together once again to support Hope House, continuing a tradition that began last year. This was not a typical volunteer event, as the group fully sponsored the effort by purchasing, preparing, and serving meals to neighbors facing hardship. Barbara Borsati Thomas, FAY Administrative Assistant and Compliance Coordinator, shared her appreciation for everyone who participated, including the family and friends who joined and helped make the day meaningful.
Although each event was unique, they were united by a shared commitment among Piedmont team members to step forward and help others. These volunteer efforts reflect our values in action and demonstrate our belief that community is something we build together, one act of service at a time.
On International Volunteer Day, we celebrate every team member who gives their time, heart, and energy to support others. Their dedication embodies the very best of who we are.
If you are inspired by this work and want to be part of a company that values service, connection, and community, explore open opportunities at Piedmont by visiting our careers page.