Norfolk Southern supports Hampton Roads nonprofits through annual community investment

Oct 27, 2026

Group photo of Team NS at October 23, 2026 luncheon in Hampton Roads

Norfolk Southern celebrated five years of community investment in Hampton Roads, Virginia. The annual luncheon, which took place on Oct. 23, recognized an additional $1 million in grants to 66 local nonprofits. The event recognized organizations making a difference across the region and marked the completion of NS's five-year, $5 million commitment.

Top Takeaway

Through its partnership with the Hampton Roads Community Foundation, Norfolk Southern invested $5 million since 2021 to support local nonprofits addressing community needs, from education and workforce development to housing, environmental stewardship, and the arts.

Five years of community impact

After relocating to Atlanta in 2021, Norfolk Southern reinforced its commitment to the Hampton Roads region through a partnership with the Hampton Roads Community Foundation, investing $1 million annually in local nonprofits for a five-year period. An annual luncheon brings together nonprofit leaders, community partners, and NS representatives to celebrate the organizations putting these resources to work.

This year's celebration highlighted a few of the organizations making a difference:

Virginia Children's Chorus: Provided young people with opportunities to develop their musical abilities, build confidence, and connect with others through the arts
Virginia Arts Festival: Created opportunities for young people to experience and participate in the arts. Its Rhythm Project All-Star Combo also performed during the luncheon.
Lynnhaven River NOW: Used funding from an earlier grant to plant 650 trees in Virginia Beach's Green Run neighborhoods, helping improve the local environment.

Annie Adams speaking at Hampton Roads event

What we're saying

"This community has always held a special place in my heart. Over the past five years, we've had the opportunity to support incredible organizations doing meaningful work across the region. Today, we celebrate the completion of our five-year commitment and recognize the community partners who have made a lasting difference in Hampton Roads." - Annie Adams, Chief Human Resources Officer, Norfolk Southern

What they're saying

“We have been honored to steward this generous gift from Norfolk Southern for five years. The company’s corporate legacy lives on in its support for regional nonprofits who are building a better future for all in Hampton Roads.” - Deborah M. DiCroce, the Hampton Roads Community Foundation’s president and CEO

The big picture

While this year's grants marked the completion of NS's original five-year commitment, its connection to Hampton Roads remained strong. With longstanding operations, employees, and retirees in the region, Norfolk Southern reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the community.

NS also emphasized that its Thriving Communities Grant program would provide continued opportunities for Hampton Roads nonprofits to receive support alongside organizations across its 22-state network.

Learn more about Norfolk Southern's community impact efforts and the Hampton Roads Community Foundation.