Fund for the City of New York’s Post

DUE TO PENDING WEATHER, THIS EVENT HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED FOR MONDAY MAY 13TH!!! If in the long term you want to go beyond "feel good" PR-centric actions to showcase the real DEI work that must be done this is the conversation for you. #DEI #diversity #equity #inclusion #intentiontoimpact

Racial equity in business is not just a moral imperative; it's essential for Michigan's economic growth. Leaders across the state are highlighting how integrating equitable practices can drive development and inclusivity, creating opportunities for all. Discover how policymakers and business leaders are paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous Michigan: https://wkkf.co/rdbg

The middle class has been the backbone of America's growth and innovation, serving as both the engine of economic expansion and the bedrock of democratic values. Emerging in the post-World War II era, this demographic fueled the nation’s rise through their unwavering commitment to hard work, education, and community involvement. As families moved to suburban neighborhoods, they not only contributed to the expansion of the housing market but also established vibrant local economies. Middle-class Americans became the primary consumers, driving demand for goods and services that spurred industrial growth, technological advancement, and the creation of countless jobs. This robust consumer base not only stabilized the economy but also fostered a culture of entrepreneurship, enabling small businesses to flourish and diversifying the nation’s economic landscape. Furthermore, the middle class has played a crucial role in shaping the cultural and political fabric of the United States. Their pursuit of upward mobility has driven significant social change, championing civil rights, educational access, and healthcare reform. The middle class has advocated for policies that promote equity and opportunity, striving to ensure that the American Dream remains attainable for all. By participating in the democratic process, from grassroots movements to national elections, middle-class citizens have influenced legislation that upholds the principles of fairness and justice. In essence, the middle class has not only built America economically but has also cultivated a society that values inclusivity and progress, embodying the spirit of resilience that defines the nation.

Travis Holoway takes a deep dive into the trials him and Rodney Williams have faced while creating a platform to serve everyday Americans. Read and share this article to learn how we can begin to demarginalize the inequality in our current financial system. https://lnkd.in/gYiqmrbr .

We live in a time when things are objectively better for most people than almost any time in history, and also happens to be filled with divisiveness and mistrust of our institutions. The recent passage in the House of Representatives of the Stronger Workforce for America Act gives me tremendous optimism that we’re turning a corner in America; that civic engagement and bipartisanship can indeed make a difference. It is true, the confluence of the digital and gig economies, globalization, climate change, and the pandemic created a perfect storm of stresses in our communities. Much of this is manifested in a 4 decades-long decline in entrepreneurship rates in America, which has further reduced our dynamism and resiliency. As Americans, we think of ourselves through the lens of exceptionalism. We don’t like to feel insecure. It is this feeling of insecurity that gives us pause, that creates conflict among us, that creates mistrust in the institutions that govern our society. It is through this lens that I share a story of hope for the future, and why I have faith in our institutions. Read my full guest column in the Augusta Business Daily

It has been an honor to serve with Business Equity for Indy to address racial disparities that are disparaging Indy's Black residents and other people of color. Over the past 4 years, there has been a steadfast commitment to BEI's People, Policy, and Procurement Pillars. To mark the fourth anniversary, BEI is unveiling an Impact Report.  This report outlines key data, tactics, and outcomes that BEI has helped to convene since 2020. Still, the work must continue to ensure that the Indy Region continues to be a place where all can realize opportunity—regardless of their skin color. Explore the BEI Annual Impact Report, now:  https://lnkd.in/gMdPykVp #businessequityforindy #equity #diversity #inclusion

“Ask not what 2024 can do for you – ask what YOU can do for 2024”… paraphrazing John F. Kennedy, not the famous airport... the famous and ingenious former U.S. President! As we stand on the brink of a new year, it's apt to draw inspiration from the words of the famous and ingenious former U.S. President, John F. Kennedy. In his iconic phrase, “Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country,” Kennedy implores us to transcend self-interest and actively contribute to the collective journey that lies ahead. The paraphrased quote serves as a poignant reminder, encouraging us to be proactive architects of the year unfolding before us. Kennedy's legacy extends beyond political realms, and his vision for a society that values civic duty remains as relevant as ever. By asking what we can do for 2024, we shift the focus from personal expectations to a commitment to shared progress. It's a call to action that resonates with the essence of Kennedy's leadership – a vision of individuals actively participating in shaping a better future for all. In practical terms, this call invites civic engagement, community involvement, and a mindset that goes beyond personal gain. Whether through volunteering, supporting local initiatives, or advocating for positive change, each action becomes a building block for a more collaborative and compassionate society. Moreover, Kennedy's vision fosters a sense of unity and collaboration. By actively contributing to the common good, individuals can collectively address challenges, advocate for change, and innovate for a brighter future. This collaborative spirit aligns with Kennedy's belief in the strength of a society united by a shared sense of purpose. As we step into 2024, let us carry with us the spirit of Kennedy's call to action. Let's not merely anticipate what the year holds for us, but actively seek ways to make a positive impact on 2024. By asking what we can do for the year ahead, we honor the legacy of a visionary leader and pave the way for a future shaped by collective efforts, shared values, and a commitment to creating positive change.

Big news at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University. I'm excited for Ben Klutsey who is brilliant and an excellent leader. I'm looking forward to what's next. But I also want to take a moment to recognize what Daniel M. Rothschild achieved in 10 years at the helm of Mercatus. There are too many projects to name, but what I most appreciate is that he refused to let Mercatus keep doing what it always did. He pushed Mercatus to practice what it preached, to push boundaries, to be entrepreneurial, to fight complacency at every turn. In the non-profit space, that's rare. As a result, Mercatus became a creator of consequential research, a talent identifier and multiplier, a leader in student development, and a funder of idea entrepreneurs. The work is so varied that it's quite hard to encapsulate everything Mercatus is. But the mental model I keep returning to is Mercatus as the Bell Labs of the classically liberal world. Mercatus is a place that finds and multiplies talented people committed to free markets, free individuals, and a better society through brilliant ideas. By any meaningful metric, Dan led Mercatus to be better. Over the past decade, support for the Mercatus Center has grown by over 140 percent, with more than 3,500 students receiving graduate and undergraduate support. It's been incredible to watch, first in the organization, then as a fan outside of it, and then back again as a returning employee. Well done.

This week we're highlighting NCEDA Board Member, Timothy Downs! Timothy is the Regional Director for Economic Development in North Carolina for Thomas & Hutton. We asked him some questions to help you get to know him better. Learn more about Timothy below!   What aspects of serving on the NCEDA board do you find most fulfilling or meaningful? A: I particularly enjoy and appreciate working with like-minded leaders who continuously strive to improve the organization, the profession, and themselves.   In what ways do you think economic development directly influences our communities? A: There are many ways that economic development directly influences our communities, like attracting private investment and jobs, helping existing companies thrive and grow, and catalyzing new training programs. I am going to focus on one that is harder to measure, but I believe is just as important as the others – cultivating community pride. Community self-esteem is very real and plays a critical role in attracting new investment and jobs. If your community cannot or does not speak with confidence and pride about itself and its resources, it will be very difficult to convince new and existing companies to grow in your community. Economic Development should play the lead role in uniting, fostering, and promoting that community pride.   Reflecting on your career, what accomplishment or contribution has been particularly significant to you? A: My time as the Economic Development Director in Craven County was particularly rewarding because I was tasked with rebuilding economic development in the County and helping start a public-private partnership to assist with the economic development strategy. I’m proud to say that Craven County economic development and the Craven 100 Alliance are still going strong 10 years later.   Is there a personal or professional experience that has shaped who you are today, which you'd like to share?  A: I started my economic development career in local government in Dayton, Ohio in 2008. It was a very challenging time and place to serve as an economic developer. The term trial by fire comes to mind. I learned how important the fundamentals of economic development really are. I also learned how important strategic partnerships are.   What do you appreciate most about the NCEDA? A: The broad and deep relationships it fosters among practitioners, allies, and partners.   Learn more about Timothy here: www.nceda.org/about/board/  

The Call of the Coming Mid-Century: Learning from the Past, Shaping the Future ✨ “As we approach the mid-21st century, it’s important to reflect on the transformative power of the last mid-century. The 1950s and 1960s were times of profound change, marked by social movements that challenged the status quo and demanded justice and equality. From the civil rights movement ✊🏾 to anti-war protests ✌🏽, this era reshaped our understanding of freedom, democracy, and human rights. It was a period of both great conflict and tremendous progress, setting the stage for the social, cultural, and political shifts that continue to impact us today. This period was also rich with creativity and innovation in the arts 🎨 and architecture 🏛️. James Baldwin’s searing literature and essays challenged America to confront its racial and social injustices, offering a powerful narrative on the complexities of identity and belonging. His work remains a crucial touchstone for discussions on race and equality. Meanwhile, Frank Lloyd Wright’s innovative designs, characterized by their seamless integration of glass and natural materials, reflected a new vision of harmony between humanity and the environment. His architecture mirrored the era’s broader push to rethink and redefine established norms, blending creativity with a respect for nature. Today, as we face our own complex challenges—climate change 🌡️, social equity ⚖️, technological advancements free from bias📱—we are called to draw from this legacy of bold thinking. How can we, as public interest leaders, innovate and adapt to build a more equitable and sustainable future? As we look forward to the coming mid-century, let us be inspired by the courage, creativity, and vision of those who came before us. Together, we can push boundaries, foster inclusive solutions, and create meaningful, lasting impact. 💡🌟 #MidCenturyLegacy #JamesBaldwin #FrankLloydWright #NonprofitLeadership #SocialChange #Innovation #FutureOfImpact #ArtAndArchitecture