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Class I Briefs: CSX, NS

Volunteers from five cities unite for shared mission: Make a difference. (NS Photo)
CSX is recognized as a United Way of Northeast Florida “Champion of Change.” Also, Norfolk Southern (NS) volunteers stretch across 650 miles for Earth Day.

CSX

CSX was recently honored with the Heart of Giving Award at United Way of Northeast Florida’s inaugural Champions of Change Awards, which celebrated individuals and companies for their dedication to philanthropy and community impact.

The award, recognizing total dollars raised for United Way over the past year, was accepted by CSX Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer Diana Sorfleet, who is also a United Way board member. The ceremony was held on April 24 at Emerald Station, part of the Phoenix Arts & Innovation District in Jacksonville, Fla., and drew more than 125 attendees for a night of celebration and recognition.

The Champions of Change Awards “highlighted corporate generosity and celebrated the collective power of individuals and organizations working to uplift the community.” CSX was one of four corporations recognized in the Heart of Giving Award category. Other honorees included GuideWell/Florida Blue, Miller Electric Company, and the Nimnicht Family of Dealerships.

“United Way believes in a community of opportunity where everyone has hope and can reach their full potential, and these award winners play a critical part in helping us achieve that vision for Northeast Florida,” said United Way of Northeast Florida President and CEO Melanie Patz. “We are so grateful not only for their tremendous support but also for their passion for giving back and making the greater Jacksonville community a better place for everyone.”

“CSX’s philanthropic contributions reflect its ongoing commitment to strengthening its local communities. By fostering a culture of giving, the company has played a vital role in creating lasting positive change,” the Class I said in a release.

NS

Employees across NS’s network rolled up their sleeves for Earth Day on April 22 to partner with local nonprofits dedicated to protecting and preserving green spaces in five of the Class I’s communities.

From cleanup events to tree planting, and removing invasive species, Team NS dug in to make a difference, including:

  • Atlanta: Partnered with Trees Atlanta and the Beltline to remove invasive plants and collect nearly 500 gallons of trash.
  • Chattanooga, Tennessee: Removed invasive species and helped preserve historic green spaces alongside local partners.
  • Fort Wayne, Indiana: Cleared 500+ pounds of invasive plants to help reopen Trail 11 at Eagle Marsh East.
  • Louisville, Kentucky: Collected trash along three key routes near NS’s yard and surrounding neighborhoods.
  • Youngstown, Ohio: Potted 700 new plants, spread 80 yards of mulch, and cleaned up the water ways surrounding Fellows Riverside Gardens.

“Earth Day-related volunteering is just one way we continue to prioritize sustainability efforts,” NS said. “Increasing efficiency, reducing emissions, and conserving natural resources are fundamental to our business. Thank you to everyone who volunteered and the nonprofits that work tirelessly to make a difference in their communities!”