Cox Communications’ commitment to give back to the communities it serves was evident again in 2015, as the company gave over $750,000 in cash and in-kind donations to non-profits, charities and government organizations in Middle Georgia.
 
“Cox understands the importance of serving the communities in which our employees and customers live, work and play,” said Lynn Murphey, market vice president for Cox Middle Georgia. “It is a mission of the company to use our time, talent and technology in ways to strengthen cities, businesses and future generations. Cox is a proud member of the Middle Georgia community.  We stand committed to the area to improve the quality of life for all residents in Middle Georgia. “
 
Each year, Cox focuses on giving to organizations that benefit the area’s youth, diversity, education, technology and environmental issues.  This year, Cox provided funds and services to numerous organizations including, but not limited to, the Tubman Museum, Macon Arts Alliance, Museum of Arts and Sciences, Historic Macon Foundation, United Way, Hay House, and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Georgia.  Cox’s biggest impact came in September, when the company announced that the James M. Cox Foundation had provided a $288,500 to EveryoneON for the Connect2Compete program in Macon-Bibb and Houston counties.  Connect2Compete is a national, not-for-profit initiative that connects families with at least one child in the national free lunch program to the Internet.
 
“Cox Communications has provided considerable support to Macon Arts Alliance and its mission to foster and support the arts in Central Georgia,” said Jan Beeland, executive director of the Macon Arts Alliance. “Through both monetary and media sponsorship, Cox increases Macon Arts Alliance's ability to offer educational arts programming and foster economic development through the arts. We are so appreciative of Cox and their belief in our mission and our work.”
 
“Cox’s support for the Tubman African American Museum was critical to the Museum’s success in completing and opening our beautiful new location on Cherry Street,” Tubman African American Museum Executive Director Andy Ambrose, Ph.D. said. “In addition, they have funded key educational programs, exhibits, events, and outreach initiatives at the Tubman that are making a positive difference in the lives and education of children and families throughout Central Georgia. Through its services and its generous support for non-profits and charities in the community, Cox is defining what it truly means to be a Good Corporate Citizen.”
 
Several Cox employees served on local board of directors, giving their time back to the community.  For instance, Dan Slagle, director of sales support for Cox Business, was the 2015 Board Chair for the Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce. While chairman, First Quality Enterprises, Inc. announced plans for a plant in Macon, and Boeing announced a re-tooling of their military facility in Macon to manufacture 747-8 fuselage panel assemblies.
 
In addition, Cox continued to support local education and the business community with donations to the Macon-Bibb and Houston County School Districts as well as chambers of commerce in Bibb, Houston, and Peach counties.
 
Along with the sponsorships and grants Cox presented in 2015, Cox also recognized over 20 students in Macon-Bibb County, through its inaugural Cox Inspirational Student Hero Awards.  These students were chosen by their schools, as an inspiration to the staff and students at their respective school.  Whether it was overcoming a disability, tragic life event or other obstacle in life, these children were celebrated for their impact on others.