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April 15, 2025 — Publix Super Markets honored Charlotte Division Store Manager Jason Wilkes with a 2025 Mr. George Community Service Award at the company’s annual stockholders’ meeting.

Wilkes’ passion for helping others developed when he started with Publix while attending the University of Alabama. He learned about the importance of serving his community from his managers, and he began to take part in fundraisers organized by the company. When he transferred to help Publix enter North Carolina, he started devoting time to his new area.

“There was a big opportunity because we were introducing ourselves in a new market. Being a Publix associate, I wanted to do my part,” said Wilkes. “I was volunteering at food banks, United Way and anywhere else we could help.”

Now, while managing a store in Mooresville, North Carolina, Wilkes is deeply involved in his community. He serves on the city’s chamber of commerce and coordinates with the parks and recreation department to clean up and improve parks. He also sets up events to support after-school programs at the Manny Neighborhood Care Center in Cornelius, North Carolina, and Woodland Discovery in Concord, North Carolina. His efforts inspire the associates he works with to get involved in events that benefit organizations like Habitat for Humanity, Feeding America® and Second Harvest Food Bank.

On receiving this award, Wilkes said it allowed him to reflect on how important being an involved member of the community was to Publix founder George Jenkins.

“He understood the importance of giving back,” said Wilkes. “He had an appreciation of what life provided him through hard work and dedication, and he wanted to show his gratitude by helping his community. That mindset extended to his associates, and I’m humbled and honored by this experience.”

Beyond this recognition, Wilkes says he takes his volunteering efforts one day at a time. Whenever an opportunity presents itself to make a difference in his community, he will be there.

About Jason

Wilkes began his Publix career in 2007 as a deli clerk in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. He worked his way up to deli manager there before relocating to North Carolina in 2013, where he helped open the first store in the Charlotte Division. Wilkes became an assistant store manager in 2016 in Charlotte, North Carolina, and was promoted to store manager in 2019.

About the award

Each year, one associate from each retail division and one support associate are recognized with the Mr. George Community Service Award. The associates are actively involved in their communities and represent the generous spirit of Publix founder George Jenkins.

Other award recipients

Wilkes joined the rest of this year’s Mr. George Community Service Award recipients, who were