In recognition of its significant contributions to bettering communities throughout Middle Georgia, Helms College was awarded a 2018 Lighting the Way Award.
 
The SunTrust Foundation’s Lighting the Way Awards honor nonprofit organizations that strengthen their local communities through programs that help people better their circumstances and gain financial confidence. Helms College was recognized due to the opportunities it provides through Helms College, which offers hands-on educational opportunities in hospitality, culinary arts and health sciences at campuses in Macon.
 
“We’re committed to building stronger communities and our nonprofit partners are addressing community needs in innovative and meaningful ways,” said Stan Little, president of the SunTrust Foundation. “Helms College is improving the lives of many people, and we applaud its mission, long-term service to the community, and the impact the organization is making where it’s most needed.”
 
“Helms College creates career pathways out of poverty,” said James K. Stiff, president of Helms College. “It is because of the generosity of SunTrust and other donors who are helping us advance our mission at Helms College that we are able to help people discover and develop their natural talents through education and career services.”