Bill Bolling stands as a pivotal figure in Atlanta’s fight against hunger, renowned for his enduring commitment to food security and community empowerment. His most impactful contribution is undeniably the establishment of the Atlanta Community Food Bank, an organization that has become a cornerstone of hunger relief in the region.
In 1979, recognizing the urgent need to address food insecurity, Bolling co-founded the Atlanta Community Food Bank. For 36 years, as its executive director, he spearheaded the organization’s growth, transforming it into a powerhouse that distributed over half a billion pounds of food to those in need. His leadership extended beyond Atlanta, as a charter member of Feeding America, he was instrumental in the creation of food banks nationwide. Further solidifying his impact in Georgia, Bolling initiated the Georgia Food Bank Association, establishing eight food banks across the state and supporting over 2,600 hunger relief organizations in every county.
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Bolling’s vision for a food-secure Atlanta evolved beyond emergency food distribution. In 2015, he co-founded Food Well Alliance, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to community food systems. As board chair and senior advisor, he guides this network that supports local leaders in building thriving community gardens and urban farms throughout metro Atlanta. Food Well Alliance provides crucial resources to over 300 local growers, fostering sustainable food sources within communities.
His dedication and expertise have garnered widespread recognition. Bolling holds board positions with prestigious organizations such as the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation and the Inspire Brands Foundation, and contributes to academic discourse at the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies at Georgia State University. His influence extends to civic engagement, having facilitated the Atlanta Regional Housing Forum since 1984 and co-founding the Atlanta Civic Circle, promoting civic journalism.
Accolades for Bolling’s lifetime of service include the Dan and Tally Sweat Community Leadership Award (2022), Georgia Trend Living Legend recognition (2022), an honorary degree from Emory University (2018), induction into Georgia Trend Magazine’s Most Influential Hall of Fame (2015), and being named Georgia Trend’s Georgian of the Year in 2012. These honors reflect the profound and lasting impact of his work.
Bill Bolling’s legacy is deeply intertwined with the Atlanta Food Bank and his broader efforts to create a more equitable and food-secure community. His innovative approach, from establishing a major food bank to fostering local food systems, marks him as a true leader in the fight against hunger and a champion for community well-being in Atlanta and beyond.
