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John Attaway steps into role as president and CEO of the GiveWell Community Foundation

John Attaway

GiveWell Community Foundation president and CEO John Attaway

LAKELAND, FL (April 1, 2020) – Today, John Attaway, Jr. assumes the role of president and chief executive officer of the GiveWell Community Foundation. He was selected by the board of directors at the January 28, 2020 meeting. Leading up to his April 1 start date, Attaway has been helpful and responsive, assisting the community foundation with its ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to work in service of the foundation and this community – one of the most generous and philanthropic communities in the nation,” stated Attaway. “I have always been inspired by the remarkable work of our community foundation. It has been exciting to watch the organization’s impact and collaboration grow in Lakeland and Winter Haven and now throughout all of Polk and Hardee and Highlands counties.”

Attaway served as senior vice president, general counsel, and secretary at Publix Super Markets, Inc. until May 2019. He served as a board member and chair of the Community Foundation of Greater Lakeland from 2002 to 2006. The Community Foundation of Greater Lakeland later merged with the Community Foundation of Greater Winter Haven to create the GiveWell Community Foundation in 2013.

Outgoing president and CEO, Terry Simmers will provide his experience and guidance to ensure a smooth and successful transition through September 30, 2020. Simmers, who will retire this year after 12 years with the foundation, expressed his confidence in Attaway.

“John is a great leader and valued member of our community,” said Simmers. “I am very happy with the board’s decision, and confident that John will ensure the community foundation continues its mission of championing charitable giving to improve the quality of life in the areas we serve, both now and for future generations.”

About GiveWell Community Foundation

GiveWell Community Foundation (GWCF) works with individuals, families, businesses, and nonprofits to build a stronger community throughout Polk, Hardee and Highlands counties and beyond through charitable funds and competitive grant cycles. The foundation is home to more than 300 charitable funds and the Impact Polk and Empower Polk grant cycles. GWCF has awarded $209 million in grants since its founding in 1997. To learn more about GWCF, visit givecf.org or call 863-683-3131.

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