America’s leading beverage companies have a history of being committed to their communities, locally and globally. In fact, last week we wrote about Fortune naming both The Coca-Cola Company and PepsiCo as companies working to “Change The World.” Giving back is a part of our culture, right down to the individual. John Shaw, based in North Carolina, is one example of how an individual can make a big impact in their community.

Tomorrow at Appalachian State University and across the Watauga region “John Shaw Day” will be celebrated in honor of the man’s work to make a difference in his community. In the Watauga Democrat article about “John Shaw Day” they share that Shaw is in “his 14th year as the beloved “Pepsi Man” on campus… [and] has devoted the last 16-plus years to the company that is recognizing him, along with the ASU community and beyond.”

Shaw is active in the Appalachian community, volunteering for a number of philanthropic events and groups. He participates in the annual Polar Plunge, a local fundraising event, and speaks to campus and community groups to raise awareness around the event. He also takes part in an annual event in support of Special Olympic athletes who live in Watauga County.

When speaking about his efforts to give back Shaw simply said “Every new day you wake up is a new opportunity to do something for someone else…I want to be the best at what I do. I am not just representing myself, but I also represent Pepsi, ASU and the community. Whatever I do, I want to do it to the best of my ability.”

We here at Sip & Savor raise a beverage to Shaw and all of his wonderful work.

Read more about John Shaw and his work in the mountains of North Carolina here.