SHRM announced the winners of its 2025 Impact Award on Nov. 21, highlighting programs that address workforce reentry, disaster response, and skills training across the United States.
The awards recognize SHRM chapters and state councils for initiatives that extend beyond traditional HR functions into community support and workforce development, according to Gloria Sinclair Miller, SHRM’s vice-president of membership and customer community experience.
“These honorees are not only advancing the HR profession—they are transforming lives, strengthening communities, and setting new standards for purpose-driven action,” said Miller.
Reentry and addiction programs
Allatoona SHRM and SHRM Calhoun County received awards for partnerships with correctional institutions that provide job readiness support for inmates preparing to reenter the workforce.
Kosciusko HRA was recognized for a jail-based chemical addiction program focused on workforce integration.
Disaster response coordination
Texas SHRM State Council and SHRM California State Council received a joint award for coordinating disaster response efforts during severe flooding and wildfires, according to SHRM.
Career development initiatives
Anchorage SHRM was recognized for career coaching programs serving displaced workers and students.
CenTex SHRM launched a bilingual training roadshow designed for small business owners.
Great River Human Resources Association developed peer-based mentorship micro-communities.
Greater Pensacola SHRM started a youth mentorship initiative.
Policy and training programs
Dodge County SHRM advocated for childcare stabilization funding at the state level.
Kansas State Council of SHRM expanded its HR Registered Apprenticeship Program. Greater Richmond SHRM created a toolkit to support organizational inclusion and diversity practices.
Winners will be recognized at the SHRM Volunteer Leaders’ Business Meeting in Cancun. SHRM has nearly 340,000 members in 180 countries.
