Class 25 Serves Community, Each Other

Working with the Akron Archangels to promote local entrepreneurship. Serving side-by-side with one’s children to instill a volunteer spirit. Draw upon one’s business experience to mentor undergraduate students. These are just a few examples of the ideas Class 25 members generated during their last full program day last month. In addition to making personal commitments to impact the community, Class 25 also directed an immediate impact on the community through the philanthropy project, seeking to make a difference on basic needs across a wide spectrum. After a number of committee and class dialogues, they chose the following projects:

• NAMI of Summit County—the Needy Soles program to provide shoes for the disadvantaged mentally ill.

• The ARC of Summit/Portage Counties—assist children with developmental disabilities as mediator among schools, courts, and parents.

• East Akron YMCA—Teen Challenge program to provide support for at-risk young women with positive experiences and guidance.

• Mobile Meals—medically prescribed supplements for at-risk children whose parents are not able to pay.

Not satisfied with the “official” philanthropy project, Class 25 adopted a philanthropy project of their own, benefiting their classmate John Hedges of Weathervane. Each class member pitched in to dedicate a seat at Weathervane Theatre in John’s honor from his classmates. The look of surprise and gratitude on John’s face at the moment of presentation was unforgettable.

That is a good example of what this year has revealed about this class—making a difference across a wide spectrum of areas, and a desire to go the extra mile. They have consistently seized every opportunity Leadership Akron has presented beyond expectations, and created even more opportunities on their own. Are these the type of leaders you’re looking to get involved in the causes you care about? Then click here to meet our newest graduates—they’re eager to serve and ready to lead!