Katherine Perrotta
Dr. Katherine Perrotta, originally from Staten Island, moved to Johns Creek in 2012 for work and quickly became involved with the community. Volunteering with the Johns Creek Historical Society and Student Leadership Johns Creek has been rewarding for Dr. Perrotta, “I love helping students engage in civic service, their dedication gives me hope for the future.” Dr. Perrotta has worked with over a hundred local students on voluntary group projects that have been funded by grants from Georgia Humanities and the Library of Congress leaving a memorable mark on her students and the community.
Student Leadership Johns Creek empowers youth through civic engagement and teaches them how government works. A selfless volunteer for high school-age students in Johns Creek over the past 5 years, Dr. Perrotta, was inspired by the students’ passion for restoring the Macedonia African Methodist Church Cemetery and says, “It's wonderful to see young people conduct local history research as community service.” Working with Student Leadership Johns Creek has made Dr. Perrotta more optimistic about teaching; “it’s encouraging to see students want to make the world a better place by engaging in civic service and historical research.
“I believe everyone should want to volunteer, says Dr. Perrotta, “when kids are given opportunities that align with their interests, they become genuinely engaged.” Everyone hopes that the experiences from Student Leadership Johns Creek inspire the participants into adulthood, “as more caring people would make a significant difference in the world.” Dr. Perrotta is looking forward to cooking a huge dinner this Thanksgiving and spending the day with her family.
Trejoundra “Nikki” McKinney
Nikki McKinney is the Financial Center Manager for Fifth Third Bank on State Bridge Road in Johns Creek. Born and raised in Southwest Georgia, she and her husband relocated to Johns Creek 12 years ago so their children could access better schools. Nikki’s children are now adults; her daughter is an Air Force veteran, and her son is a Washington and Lee University sophomore. “I’ve been an active member of the Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce since 2022,” says Nikki, “its mission aligns with my belief in supporting local businesses and communities.” Introduced to volunteerism as a child through church events, school activities and other community events; she remains dedicated to her community.
Nikki, a breast cancer survivor of 20 years, has a very special place in her heart for the American Cancer Society, and has personally led several Relay For Life fundraisers. Nikki’s Thanksgiving plans include hosting dinner for 35 friends and family.
Butch Carter
Originally from North Carolina Butch Carter relocated to Johns Creek in 2008 to be closer to family. “Due to my corporate commitments and travel schedule, I initially couldn't participate in community activities,” says Butch, “however; after opening our first business, I began volunteering through Rotary as a way to give back.” Rotary is an incredible service organization that supports many non-profit organizations. Outside of Rotary, Butch and his family also support Revved Up Kids, where his wife serves on the board. “Recently, I joined the Board of the Johns Creek Chamber to help foster the growth of our local business community,” says Butch.
"There are countless individuals who generously give their time and money to support important causes. Although we live in a prosperous community, there is so much need; many of us remain unaware because we simply don’t see it. While not everyone can volunteer due to time or resources, there are both small and large ways to contribute,” says Butch. “People and organizations in our community depend on this support.”
Jill Robinson
Jill Robinson has called Johns Creek home since 2010, when she relocated to Georgia for her job. Currently, Jill serves as the CFO and EVP of the Atlanta Braves. Originally from Chicago, Jill earned her degree in accountancy from the University of Illinois. Jill and her husband, Rob, love the area's excellent schools and strong sense of community, making it an ideal place to raise their children, Chloe and Tyler.
Robinson is deeply committed to volunteer work and serves on several boards including acting as VP of Finance for the Atlanta Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America, Secretary of the Board of Directors for ArtsNow, and Treasurer of the Atlanta Braves Foundation. Jill also serves on the Advisory Board for the Atlanta CFO Forum, and in 2021, she was honored as Atlanta's Preeminent CFO by the Forum. “I believe everyone should volunteer,” says Robinson, “it’s important to find something you’re passionate about, it’s essential to be fully committed to the cause.”
There is great fulfillment in giving back to our community and making a positive impact through leadership and service. “ArtsNow holds a special place in my heart,” says Robinson, “my daughter, Chloe, is majoring in Animation at SCAD, and my son, Tyler, thrives in a non-traditional academic setting. ArtsNow is the perfect blend.
We usually stay in Johns Creek for Thanksgiving, hosting a big traditional dinner with my parents and sister. In recent years, our day always starts with the Johns Creek Turkey Trot. It’s a fun tradition and a great way to justify that piece of pumpkin pie!
Carol McGrevin
Carol McGriven and her husband moved to Johns Creek 30 years ago, seeking a peaceful, rural community after years as corporate nomads. "Though it's grown into a bustling city, we still love living here in Johns Creek and it remains a family-friendly, beautiful place that they have always cherished," says Carol.
ArtsNow is making a significant impact on student learning, particularly for those from low-income communities. As an educator at heart and by training, she has a deep passion for improving the lives of all children, especially those facing big challenges. ArtsNow’s mission aligned perfectly with her passion, and she wanted to help them succeed. “They needed financial and organizational guidance,” says Carol. “I was willing to volunteer my time to make sure the children impacted would come to love going to school and enjoy the process of learning.” Having worked as a teacher, principal, and professor, she had seen too many kids who hated school, so supporting ArtsNow was an easy decision for her.
“Volunteerism simply feels like the right thing to do, says Carol. “There's a deep sense of satisfaction in knowing I'm making a difference without compensation.” Many impactful organizations rely on volunteers to achieve their goals. She is a firm believer in saying it takes a village. “People need to support that 'village' in any way they can, especially by volunteering where help is needed most.”
Tiffany and Brad Strawbridge
Tiffany and Brad Strawbridge are originally from Florida and moved to Johns Creek for work. The Strawbridges fell in love with the area and the vibrant Johns Creek community. After starting our own business, the couple decided to stay and opened their doors, right in the heart of this wonderful community. “Volunteering allows us to give back and connect even deeper with our neighbors,” says Tiffany.
They believe everyone deserves a safe and secure roof over their heads. Having a safe place to sleep should bring peace of mind, not fear. They are giving away a new roof to a family in need this season (see Business Monthly). They also contribute to other nonprofits that focus on community well-being and safety, as are passionate about making a positive impact in people’s lives.
"It’s an honor and privilege to share the gifts we've received with others. We truly believe you receive true joy and fulfillment when you give your time, talent, and skills to those in need, and everyone should experience the fulfillment that comes from serving others."
Tiffany and Brad are excited to be spending Thanksgiving with family and friends in Florida. “As a family, we also plan to give back by serving in a local nonprofit’s kitchen,” says Tiffany,” which makes the holiday even more meaningful for us!”
Introduced to volunteerism as a child through church events, school activities and other community events; she remains dedicated to her community.
Though it's grown into a bustling city, we still love living here in Johns Creek and it remains a family-friendly, beautiful place that they have always cherished.