Fueled by Passion

Pinnacle and Synovus Participate in 31-Day Challenge

Team members at Pinnacle and Synovus are teaming up to participate in the 2026 Patriot Challenge, May 1-31, organized by GallantFew, a nonprofit in Columbus, Georgia, that helps veterans transition from active duty to civilian life through one-on-one mentorship, professional development, emotional and physical support, and networking.

The month-long event sends participants a daily functional fitness challenge to improve holistic wellness and express gratitude to the military community for their service and sacrifice during Military Appreciation Month. Since 2021, Patriot Challenge has raised $1.2 million for GallantFew’s veteran connection, coaching, and clinical counseling programs. The Synovus Veterans Employee Resource Group has participated for several years, and this year members invited Pinnacle team members to join in the voluntary challenge.

Several team members share why the challenge holds personal meaning for them:

Jill Hurley, chief accounting officer, participates to show her gratitude to military veterans who invest years serving our country. “I have never served, and I don't have a close connection to a service member,” Hurley says. “I simply want to honor and show respect for service members and their families who are so unselfishly willing to sacrifice their lives for me and others.”

For Michael Evans, an appraisal analyst who retired from the Georgia National Guard after 21 years, “It’s a way to help serve fellow veterans while also coming alongside other team members, working towards a common goal, and building a stronger team.” 

Mimi Harbeck, team member experience advisor, shares that she’s inspired to participate in honor of her father, who is a military veteran, and her son, who is currently serving. “This challenge is very near and dear to my heart,” said Harbeck. “My dad served in the U.S. Army in Vietnam and my son, Bradley, is currently a Sergeant in the U.S Army. Being a military mom isn’t easy – a lot of unknowns and sleepless nights. Participating in this challenge allows me to give back to those who give their all so that we have freedom.”