I hope this note finds you all well. It's been some time since I've been in touch so I wanted to reach out to you directly with a few updates and a few asks.

I wanted to let you all know that this morning we officially launched Forty Under 40 Prince George's 2018. We remain committed to acknowledging young talent in this county, celebrating them in a big way, and connecting them to opportunity and each other. This year marks our 7th year of the award and as our numbers grow, so does our potential for impact. Kirt Mensah (2014 Honoree)is chairing this year's initiative; alongside Shauntia White (2015 Honoree) who has done an amazing job as overall Program Manager. Please think of outstanding candidates and feel free to nominate them. We're kicking off the launch with Social Architects at the Black Wall Street Gala on November 25th. If you're interested in attending, we have a few VIP tickets to that event on a first come, first serve basis. It should be fun. Let Shauntia know at shauntia@innovateprincegeorges.org.

The attached document is an update on opportunities. This year we launched A Seat at the Table and Innovate Prince George's (January 20, 2018) in order to increase civic engagement, build tribes of trust, and make to the civic and business infrastructure. In order to identify other interests, we are sharing the Forty Under 40 annual survey, and ask that you take a few minutes to complete it before December 1. Here's the link to the survey: https://goo.gl/forms/OZNNdEX1SxqiriKj2.

You all may have noticed that there are a number of amazing Forty Under 40 honorees who are running for local elected office. Our hope for early 2017 is to create an opportunity for all of you to meet them. In our next update, we'll provide you with the comprehensive list so that you can decide if/how you want to connect with them on their candidacy. It is pretty admirable that so many are so committed to positive change and action.

As we shift into the holiday season, I want to take this opportunity to say 'Thank You' to each of you for all that you do everyday, whether for your families, friends, for work, or for the public good. Your efforts are not in vain. In fact, they are needed more now than ever. My hope for you this season is that you receive all the rest and restoration that you need; and that you come back stronger, better, and with an even bigger heart for service and engagement.

Warmly,

Tonia

P.S. We're participating in #GivingTuesday, so you'll hear from us again very soon