Reach Out and Read’s Post

99 years ago today, 10 municipal leaders from across the country sat down together in Lawrence, Kansas for the first official meeting of the National League of Cities. On this important anniversary, I took some time to reflect on how much has changed and what has remained the same for our incredible organization in these last 100 years. Read more about it on our CitiesSpeak blog here: https://lnkd.in/ebb6j-_Y

Great to see WGU Labs' own Betheny Gross present our research on employment trends in rural northwest regions! According to Betheny, “Rural economies, once dominated by agriculture, are now more diverse, with talent working across health care, education services, retail, manufacturing, finance, and more. Our analysis shows that this evolution over the past 50 years has not only continued but may have taken interesting shifts as a result of the pandemic. As millions of workers shifted from offices to working from home, many observers suggested that this could be an economic boon for rural populations.” Find the full report here: https://lnkd.in/gr_x9KHk

Spotlight on YCP Tampa's Chapter President: John Bencivenga YCP Commitment: John identified a significant need – the gap where young adults are distancing themselves from the Church. Coupled with Tampa's growing young demographic, John felt a responsibility, especially as a Tampa native, to foster a space for community and faith. Professional Journey: John serves at Avison Young, helping businesses secure their ideal spaces. His foundation was laid at FSU, where he acquired a wealth of development, brokerage, and finance knowledge. Faith as a Guide: His Catholic faith is more than a belief; it's the anchor in his life. It's what propels him towards virtue. In personal tribulations and professional challenges, John turns to his faith as a steadying force. Leadership Ethos: John stands by a clear principle: "Lead by example." He believes in proactive leadership, setting the pace and tone for those he guides. YCP Vision: John is laser-focused on ensuring YCP Tampa is synonymous with excellence and quality. From the choice of venues to the caliber of speakers, he envisions a chapter that resonates deeply with Catholics at every stage of their faith journey. Memorable Moments: The YCP National Conference has been a highlight for John in his YCP involvement. Closer to home, the post-board meeting discussions have been instrumental, where the team envisioned creating an impactful experience for YCP Tampa members. Words of Wisdom: To young professionals, John offers this: "Do not be afraid." John consistently encourages the YCP community to embrace their faith with confidence. It can be your most authentic compass in the professional world. Persevere, set clear goals, and remain steadfast. Beyond Work: John balances his busy schedule with reading, physical activities, and moments at the beach. We're fortunate to have someone of John's caliber leading the way, and we're excited to see the heights to which he will elevate our chapter. There is still time to RSVP to the YCP Tampa Launch Party! RSVP here: https://lnkd.in/ezbMGSxS

At Saint Mary's, we create opportunities for our students, staff, and faculty to give back to the community and exercise wise leadership. One of our volunteer opportunities is writing encouraging letters to young patients in hospitals, through the organization Letters of Love: https://lnkd.in/eusQJ448 #wiseleadership #charactereducation #characterandvirtueeducation

Hear, hear

If you're interested in developing positive organisations, these sessions are always super interesting and relevant.

It's going to be a true heavy lift to bring purpose and meaning into organizations without having the power and vitality of these concepts weakened and spoiled by business-as-usual timidity and short-term thinking! Gatherings like this one seem to be working hard to do exactly that. If you see the value, dignity, and uplift potential in meaning and purpose, you might be interested, check it out for free.

Alumna and Harris Council member Kathy Im, MPP'97, addressed graduates at this year's hooding ceremony. To learn more about Kathy's role in founding the Chicago Policy Review, read this 2022 story: har.rs/3KT5irz

Young people often lead efforts to improve social, economic, and environmental standards in our communities. In observation of Youth Leadership Month, check out this free book about the power of youth in creating the conditions for health and equity. https://lnkd.in/earmJY7Y?

I was privileged as a board member of Collaborative Healing Initiative Within Communities to attend a press conference yesterday at which our CEO Sade Cooper, along with State Representative Jennifer Bacon (she, her) and State Senator James Coleman and other leaders formally announced introducing legislation which would empower a detailed racial justice (or injustices as the case may be) study in the State of Colorado. This initiative, titled Justice for Black Coloradans, is an historic step forward in identifying, documenting and understanding the specific policies and actions over the past 150 years Colorado has been a state that have contributed to the enormous disparities in education, income, wealth, and other economic opportunities between black Coloradans and so many of their fellow citizens. This vanguard study, to be led by History Colorado and funded by private sector donations, can lay the groundwork for smart, compassionate and consensus-driven policies to ameliorate the obvious legacy of historical (and on-going) injustices and ensuring a future of equal justice for all of us. As one of the speakers yesterday aptly remarked, this isn’t about critical race theory but about critical race history. What is proposed is just a study, but is nonetheless a monumental step forward in a rational path to justice and reconciliation. If you are interested you can learn more about it at https://lnkd.in/gXqEqpvp.