#United States #Atlanta #community support #charitable donations #Norfolk Southern

Norfolk Southern's Charitable Contributions Surpass $18 Million for 2025

In a commendable display of corporate social responsibility, Norfolk Southern Corporation has once again surpassed expectations by donating over $18.2 million to various charitable organizations in the year 2025. This achievement marks the third consecutive year that the company has reached this significant milestone, emphasizing its commitment to making a lasting impact across its 22-state network.

Focus on Community Impact

As a key player in the transportation sector, Norfolk Southern recognizes its responsibility to support the communities it serves. The donations made in 2025 were strategically directed towards initiatives that align with the company's core pillars of community impact: sustainability, safety, workforce development, and fostering thriving communities. Kristin Wong, the Director of the NS Foundation and Community Impact, stated, "Our railroad is deeply connected to the communities we serve. These investments reflect our long-term commitment to resilience, opportunity, and helping families thrive."

Key Highlights of 2025 Donations

Norfolk Southern’s 2025 charitable contributions have made significant strides in various areas:

1. Diverse Support for Organizations: The company provided grants to over 385 organizations spanning more than 210 cities, showcasing its extensive outreach and dedication to a variety of causes.
2. Employee Volunteer Efforts: Norfolk Southern employees dedicated over 7,200 volunteer hours collaborating with 143 organizations in 73 cities, highlighting the active role of its workforce in community initiatives.
3. Sustainability Initiatives: A notable $250,000 donation to the Trust for Public Land has advanced equitable access to parks and trails, cumulatively bringing the company’s support in this area since 2022 to $950,000.
4. Public Safety Investments: The company allocated substantial funding for public safety, including a $2 million investment in the Atlanta Police Foundation's Safest City Campaign, $100,000 to the Chicago Police Foundation, and $1.6 million through Safety First grants, reinforcing its commitment to community well-being.
5. Workforce Development Expansion: To assist with skill development, Norfolk Southern helped establish a welding training center at the City of Refuge, providing $100,000 in Trades on Track scholarships. The Thoroughbred Scholars program, which has awarded a remarkable $1.4 million in scholarships since its inception in 2002, continues to offer educational support to children of Norfolk Southern team members.
6. Support for Thriving Communities: The corporation also distributed $4.5 million in grants aimed at housing, food, and job training. Additionally, $1 million was directed to the Hampton Roads Community Foundation, benefiting 75 nonprofits throughout Virginia, while disaster relief and healthcare support were provided across the 22-state expanse.

Volunteerism at the Forefront

Beyond financial contributions, Norfolk Southern employees have actively engaged in volunteer initiatives, collaborating with organizations such as HOPE Atlanta, Habitat for Humanity, and Marine Toys for Tots. These efforts emphasize the spirit of community service that runs deep within the company's culture, fostering a sense of pride and commitment among its workforce.

Looking Ahead: 2026 and Beyond

As Norfolk Southern prepares for the upcoming year, the company remains steadfast in its dedication to addressing local needs through collaborative efforts with nonprofits, community leaders, and public agencies. In February 2026, the applications for the Thriving Communities Safety First grant program will open, signaling the company’s ongoing focus on community safety and development. Moreover, the Trades on Track community scholarship program's application window will open in May, further enhancing educational opportunities for deserving individuals.

About Norfolk Southern

Founded in 1827, Norfolk Southern Corporation is a leader in freight transportation, covering a vast network across 22 states. The company emphasizes sustainability, demonstrating its commitment to reducing carbon emissions through efficient rail transport. By dedicating substantial efforts to support community initiatives, Norfolk Southern serves as a robust example of corporate citizenship in today’s business landscape.

To learn more about Norfolk Southern's philanthropic efforts and initiatives, visit www.NorfolkSouthern.com.