Each year, United Way of Kaw Valley partners with students in Washburn University’s Leadership 300 class on a Social Innovation Grant project. Through the Social Innovation Grant, students are provided seed money from United Way and challenged to grow those funds into additional dollars that they can then grant into the community. See below for a message from this year’s students.
In the heart of the Topeka community, a transformative vision is taking shape. The Change Project, driven by the desire to retain and actively engage our youth, holds the promise of a brighter tomorrow. As you gaze into the future, you see parks coming alive with the laughter of young voices, where community members of all ages join hands to beautify your shared spaces. The community center becomes a bustling hub of learning, with after-school programs and mentorship sessions sparking the creativity and potential of our youth.
Entrepreneurship takes root, and a new generation of leaders emerges, shaping the destiny of your community. Town hall meetings buzz with fresh ideas, as the voices of the youth become integral to the decision-making processes that will define your collective future. Volunteerism becomes a driving force, uniting generations in common causes. The once quiet streets transform into vibrant thoroughfares, hosting night markets, cultural festivals, and live performances that bring your diverse community together.
As your vision unfolds, the community becomes a beacon of inclusivity, where every resident, young and old, plays a vital role. The Change Project is not just about retaining the youth, it's about sowing the seeds for a resilient, innovative, and lively community that is yet to be realized. And so, the story awaits its unfolding chapters, with the community poised on the brink of transformation, guided by the principles of active engagement and a shared vision for the promising future we are building together.
Today, we are excited to introduce you to "The Change Project," a transformative initiative aimed at fostering civic engagement, retaining our youth, and creating a stronger sense of belonging and well-being in your community.
What is The Change Project? The Change Project is more than just a campaign; it's a commitment to building a vibrant and connected community through active and inclusive civic engagement. When you allow individuals to actively participate in making your community better, it not only enhances the quality of life for everyone but also ensures a brighter future for the generations to come.
At the heart of The Change Project lies the vision to retain our youth within the community. We understand the importance of providing opportunities for your young residents to actively contribute and shape the future of your community. By fostering a sense of belonging and well-being, let’s aim to create an environment where every individual feels valued, heard, and empowered to make a positive impact.
To bring The Change Project to life, we need your support. Your donations will play a crucial role in implementing programs and initiatives that encourage civic participation, provide mentorship opportunities, and create spaces for community-building activities.
We invite you to be a part of this transformative journey by making a donation to The Change Project. Your generosity will directly impact the lives of individuals in your community and contribute to the development of a stronger, more connected future. To donate, please visit: VisionarySolutions or email us.
Together, let's be the change you want to see in your community. Thank you for your support!