The city is rapidly changing and a big part of our transformation is because Grand Rapids has many organizations who are empowering people often marginalized by society to, as we often say in the queer community, "show up" for the future.
Our local Urban Core Collective (UCC), an organization that harnesses the power of their member nonprofits, has for many years been hosting the Transformational Leaders Program (TLP).
Over the years this program has produced local leaders, many of whom I am fairly certain you have worked, served, marched, or played alongside in our city. (I know I have.)
On Tuesday, they are inviting the public to join them and other Black and Brown leaders and alumni of the program to a special mixer held at one of the most amazing restaurants to hit the region in some time: MeXo.
The event is a chance to connect but also do some good. Benefitting from your $5 suggested donation are two amazing local movements that were birthed by TLP alumni: Endless Opportunities and Movimiento Cosecha GR. Endless Opportunities mentors young people and Movimiento Cosecha GR seeks to protect undocumented immigrants and their families through direct action and community-driven support.
UCC mission states that they "believe that successful people and neighborhoods overcome the effects of systemic racism through equal access to education, economic prosperity, health and power and influence."
Space is limited and organizers ask that you RSVP in advance. And if you have not had a meal here, please book time to do so soon. I know I cannot get the thought of their Carne Asada a la Tampiqueña out of my head. It is that good, Grand Rapids!
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