#United States #Purchase #Community Impact #PepsiCo Foundation #nonprofit organizations

PepsiCo Foundation Recognizes Community Heroes

In a powerful commitment to community service, the PepsiCo Foundation has unveiled the recipients of its 2026 Community Impact Awards, recognizing 100 outstanding nonprofit organizations across the United States and Canada. With a total of $500,000 in grants allocated, these awards aim to bolster initiatives that directly address pressing local needs—from food security to environmental sustainability and employment opportunities.

Empowering Through Local Engagement

The key to the Community Impact Awards lies in their grassroots approach. Each organization selected received nominations from PepsiCo employees, who personally witnessed the positive differences these nonprofits make in their communities. This model not only empowers local leaders but also reinforces the company’s commitment to authentic community engagement. Since the program's inception in 2022, the PepsiCo Foundation has invested an impressive $3.7 million in community grants across North America.

Monica Bauer, Senior Vice President of Social Impact at PepsiCo and President of the PepsiCo Foundation, expressed her admiration for the work done by local organizations, stating, "Every day across North America, countless groups are championing their communities without recognition and often with limited resources. The awards shine a spotlight on these organizations, highlighting the crucial role they play in fostering opportunity and tackling local challenges."

Grants Making a Difference

Each of the award recipients will receive a $5,000 USD grant designed to support their mission further. The varied initiatives range from tackling hunger to promoting sustainable practices. Highlights include:

• - Hunger Resource Network in Illinois, which will utilize its grant to provide over 22,000 meals in the Chicago area.
• - Friends of Hilltop Hanover Farm and Environmental Center in New York, dedicated to sustainable agriculture and environmental education.

This year’s awardees are a testament to the impact of localized, community-driven solutions. Through the support of the PepsiCo Foundation, these organizations stand poised to enhance their services and reach.

A Promise of Continued Support

Beyond the financial grants, the PepsiCo Foundation intends to deepen its collaboration with the recipients. Starting in Spring 2027, each awarded organization will engage in a volunteer activity aligned with its objectives, further strengthening ties between the nonprofits and the PepsiCo associates who nominated them. This continuation of support reinforces the purpose behind the awards—recognition amalgamated with actionable involvement.

Each nonprofit represents a commitment to solving local issues, creating avenues for opportunities, and fulfilling specific community needs. The 2026 Community Impact Awards not only honor these champions of change but also emphasize the collective strength of community organizations and their role in fostering thriving environments.

Celebrating Community Change-Makers

This year's recipients reflect varied missions, all focused on ethical leadership and impactful service. The foundation's efforts underline the critical role that community organizations play in our social fabric. A few selected winners from the United States include:

• - Big Brothers Big Sisters programs aimed at mentoring youth.
• - Various food banks addressing urgent nutrition needs.
• - Organizations fostering economic empowerment and job readiness, such as Jobs for America’s Graduates.

Canadian organizations also make a mark, with groups like Ducks Unlimited Canada and Hamilton Out of the Cold, focusing on environmental conservation and homelessness, respectively.

As the PepsiCo Foundation continues to promote development through the Community Impact Awards, it reinforces the message of collective responsibility and action within the community. Not merely recognizing efforts but actively engaging in crafting sustainable change defines the essence of these awards and highlights a future where every community thrives through collaboration and support.