We admit ... it can be scary to launch something new but United Way of the CSRA isn't spooked at all when it comes to engaging our community's rising leaders.
Our next generation of community leaders tend to get a bad rap in the world today. Often being referred to as millennials, young leaders, selfie-takers, Gen whatevers, avocado toast lovers, and other labels we'd rather not use right now, ... this workforce brings energy, social responsibility, and philanthropic gumption we need to harness in order to grow our mission and deepen our impact.
While those of the X and Y generations are often criticized for being selfish and narcissistic, they are in fact some of the most generous with causes they believe in. Our rising leaders need to be understood and valued. United Way of the CSRA wants to learn more about their motivations and create a sense of ownership around community events that make an impact right here in our backyard. After-all, ownership and engagement are the first building blocks of an ongoing relationship.
That is why we decided to create and cultivate a new affinity group here at UWCSRA focusing on syncing rising leaders with activities that resonate with their values. This group is for our leaders under 45 (years of age, not inches we aren’t talking fair rides here people) who are looking to connect with each other through community events AND make an impact on their own terms. After much discussion (and several cups of coffee) we decided to give this group a name: Focus45.
Pictured: James Mathis (Community Advocate), Jamie Booth (Blanchard & Calhoun), Briana Williams (Queensborough), Brittany Selbert, Taylor Day, and Juanita McDaniel (United Way), and Lacey Ross (ADP).
How do you join?
Easy peasy. Make an annual investment of $180+ and be under the age of 45.
What are the benefits of joining?
Members receive entrance to exclusive networking events, volunteer opportunities, special event invitations, social meet and greets, and more!
Plus, we'd like to think the F45 crew are the new cool kids on the block..so why wouldn't you join?
The bottom line is that our rising X, Y, and Z generations want more than just a job and so-called friends; they want the ability to enjoy the world in which they feel connected and accountable with while in a close network they trust. These generations are shifting the societal and cultural norms away from what is “typical” or “historical to their parents’ generation” and creating a new way to give back. Whether it is giving an old building a face lift, hosting a sports clinic to keep our young kids active, or hosting a special beer and jeans trivia event to raise donations … this group is screaming for ways to get involved in our community in a way that makes sense to them. After all, no one can argue that our rising leaders want options, flexibility, up-to-date information, instant gratification and authenticity. Our goal is to match their enthusiasm with the needs in our community for a much deeper, more meaningful impact. Will you #JoinUWCSRA and #DiscoverYourImpact ?