This pivotal period of transition between pandemic and normalcy is an opportunity to reflect on “Us”: who we are, what we value, and how we can embody those values now and in the future. Try as we might to go back, life will certainly never be quite the same as it once was so it is time to anticipate, embrace, and innovate to become A New Us for this New Era.

There are three key areas where we have decided to focus our attention now as we look forward to our changing circumstances:

Embracing Online & In-Person Communication

Virtual meetings are so convenient and make it easier to reach a  broad audience, so they are clearly here to stay but in-person meetings allow for more active engagement and a feeling of connection that we’ve been craving for over a year. We are offering both options for our Annual Benefit to meet the needs of all guests.

Advocating for Social Justice

The murder of George Floyd motivated global protests and started a cultural conversation that has enlightened many more about the inequities faced by people of color. We are embracing our identity as a black-led community nonprofit founded to preserve black history, dedicated to empowering the victims of structural racism through our daily work, and will use our agency voice to put a spotlight on injustice.

Environmental Sustainability

The climate crisis is a vital issue and should not just be a concern for environment-focused agencies. While we have already focused on reducing energy usage and incorporating renewable energy at our buildings, we will be putting an increased focus on environmental sustainability for this event's execution, opting to forgo fresh cut flowers, using reusable plates and cutlery, and finding other ways to reduce waste and energy consumption.

Our Annual Benefit & Awards Ceremony is October 7th, 2021 from 6pm - 9:30pm! Be sure to reserve your ticket today and if you can’t join us in person, mark your calendar for the virtual livestream and silent auction!