2020 has brought unprecedented challenges across every aspect of life and work worldwide. Incredible people have risen to the challenge—pivoting, reinventing, reimagining and working harder than ever before. Birmingham’s non-profit leaders transformed annual galas into virtual gatherings, transitioned runs into races for runners to complete on their own time, and innovated new ways to raise funds and provide services to those in need throughout the Magic City. We asked our nonprofit partners to nominate the volunteers who helped them get through this year. We are proud to spotlight some of the individuals who played integral roles as Birmingham’s 2020 Trailblazers.

Name: Trip Cobb

Work: Tito's Handmade Vodka

Charity: Hand in Paw of Alabama

Motivation: There is absolutely no hiding the fact that my favorite part about my job with Tito's Handmade Vodka is building relationships with many incredible nonprofits all over Alabama that are making such a positive impact on so many lives daily. I've always had a soft spot for animals, so when I learned about how Hand in Paw's Animal-Assisted Therapy Program was improving so many individuals' lives and overall well-being, I gravitated towards helping raise awareness and funding almost immediately.

What I Gained from 2020: I've been able to spend more quality time with my husband and our dogs and we've both been forced to learn how to cook better, which has both been much needed and fun at the same time. Also, this year has taught me to not compare my life to other's highlight reels on social media, to be more grateful for the things I have, and to not take anything for granted as life's too short and nothing is promised.

Check out all of our 2020 Trailblazers here!

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