Who
Karen Dixon,
Servicing Operations Analyst in Regions Capital Markets Real Estate
What
Karen Dixon, founder of the Karen Cares Foundation for the Homeless and a servicing operations analyst with Regions, received The President’s Lifetime Achievement Award in June for her dedication to serving people experiencing homelessness in Atlanta. Americans who have dedicated 4,000 service hours are eligible for the accolade as part of the President’s Volunteer Service Award program, led by AmeriCorps to recognize the role of volunteers in our country’s strength.
Why
Dixon’s calling to serve those experiencing homelessness began in college, when as a student she wrote her thesis on the topic.
“I interviewed people to find out why they were homeless, and I received different answers from each person. I left that experience with heaviness and wanted to help.”
She started to form a vision for what would become the Karen Cares Foundation for the Homeless in 2006, and in 2018 she officially founded it. The organization has four volunteer board members and about 40 volunteers helping to carry out its mission across Atlanta.
The foundation has provided over 8,000 meals and 1,000 pounds of clothing and has organized 200 outreach events, with plans to open a transitional housing facility soon. “We give out clothes, winter apparel, blankets, sleeping bags — all the necessities.”
Earning the volunteer award required excellent time management. “I balance my professional life with my passion for supporting the community by being very intentional with my time,” Dixon said. “I set aside specific hours dedicated to my community work and make sure they align with my professional commitments. I’m delegating foundation responsibilities when necessary to stay focused without getting overwhelmed — because sometimes you can get overwhelmed.”
One of the things that drew her to join Regions in 2018 was its shared values of doing what is right and putting people first, as well as its focus on making life better. “The support I receive from the Regions organization, it speaks volumes. And the values deeply resonate with me and align with the mission of my foundation.”
“Karen receiving this award is a remarkable accomplishment and truly well-deserved,” said Twala Johnson, servicing operations manager for Regions Capital Markets Real Estate. “Karen’s passion and dedication to helping others is not only inspiring but also sets an example for everyone.”
In Her Own Words
“I feel incredibly humbled to have earned the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award. It’s a recognition that reflects not only my efforts, but also the dedication of those who have supported and worked alongside the Karen Cares Foundation for the Homeless in serving the community.
“This award is a reminder of the impact that we can make when we commit to helping others and it motivates me to continue pursuing that work with even more passion and determination.”