Christian City
Event Planning & Media Relation
Event Planning
Marketing
Atlanta
Christian City’s Safe Place program rescues at-risk youth across metro Atlanta and South Georgia from homelessness and sex trafficking. Although well-known in Union City and Fayetteville, Christian City sought greater visibility and donor engagement within Atlanta. To address this, HBI created a dynamic media and events strategy centered around launching an annual fundraising initiative. The campaign would not only support Christian City’s critical programs but also highlight its leadership and community service to a wider audience.
Summary
Christian City, a nonprofit serving vulnerable children, youth, and seniors in Georgia, partnered with HBI to raise its profile in the greater Atlanta area. The result was the launch of the Community Champion Awards (CCA)—an annual fundraising gala designed to both celebrate local changemakers and generate critical support for Christian City’s Safe Place Runaway and Homeless Youth Program. The inaugural 2019 event exceeded expectations, raising over $200,000 and establishing a powerful new platform for awareness, partnership, and community impact.
Challenge
Christian City was underrecognized in the Atlanta metro area despite serving thousands of vulnerable children and families from the region. With alarming statistics—such as 30% of homeless youth falling victim to sex trafficking within 48 hours—the organization needed to elevate awareness of both the crisis and the solution it provides. The challenge was to engage the Atlanta donor community, build strategic partnerships, and secure sustainable funding for a cause that hits close to home for many residents.
Solutions
HBI crafted and executed a multi-faceted campaign to launch and position the Community Champion Awards as a must-attend annual fundraiser: Strategic Branding: Developed messaging, materials, and a theme centered on recognizing leadership and advancing youth safety. Event Planning and Production: Selected a high-profile, family-friendly venue (Georgia Aquarium), coordinated entertainment and speakers, and created a compelling guest experience. Honoree Selection: Recognized impactful figures like Stephanie Blank (individual), Westside Future Fund (nonprofit), and Delta Air Lines (corporate). Stakeholder Engagement: Built an executive committee, recruited honorary co-chairs, and facilitated partnerships with major Atlanta institutions.
