Volunteer of the Month

Vivan Hixon has a résumé like no other. For the past 12 years, she has been a dedicated volunteer with the Atlanta Track Club, but her contributions extend far beyond that. Vivan is a retired Army veteran with 30 years of service, including four tours of duty. She is also a master athlete, skilled crafter, and a compassionate caregiver.

Vivan Hixon's journey with the Atlanta Track Club began in 2012 when she volunteered for the Thanksgiving Day Race. Since then, she has been dedicated to serving the running and walking community at every level. What keeps her coming back is the camaraderie and love she shares with the staff, her role as lead driver for the races, and the incredible support the Atlanta Track Club provides to the community. Vivan's two favorite events are the Peachtree Road Race and the Thanksgiving Day Half Marathon. She loves the unmatched energy and excitement that participants bring.

Vivan's favorite thing about volunteering with the Track Club is the opportunity to give back and to meet people from different walks of life. Her all time favorite activity is to drive the pace car and the SAG/Sweep vehicles. Just as much as she enjoys being active, Vivan loves to cheer on and motivate the runners to put their best foot forward and to be an extra set of eyes and ears for the staff.

One of Vivan's standout memories is from the Publix Marathon Race, where she assisted several injured runners until EMS arrived. Her quick thinking and bravery in that moment highlights her commitment to ensuring the safety and enjoyment of everyone involved. Vivan is also actively involved with Atlanta Public Schools, Fulton County Schools, Phenom Track Club, Rejoice in the Word Church, Atlanta Parks and Recreation, and WSB's Stuff the Bus initiative. Her passion for giving back stems from her own experiences as a child. This drives her mission to uplift others and encourage hope in the community.

Vivan describes herself as outgoing, adventurous, passionate, hardworking, and giving. "I love helping and motivating the underdog—those people who are counted out—to rise to their potential. I especially love serving the homeless community and women and children's shelters, and helping students learn to read and build self-confidence and self-esteem." Her commitment to serving others, both on and off the field, makes her an invaluable member of our community

For new Atlanta Track Club volunteers, Vivan shares these wise words: "I would say come out and volunteer because your life won't be the same. Choose an event, make it your own memory, and have fun. There's so much benefit in volunteering." If you see her at an event, be sure to wave and say hello—it's hard to miss her vibrant spirit!