What do you get when you combine a beautiful rooftop patio, over 200 local millennials and a shared passion for community?
The hottest (and coolest) party in town!
Impact Red: Rooftop Social attendees.
Last night, GenNext at United Way British Columbia hosted their 3rd Annual Impact Red: Rooftop Social. Held at event sponsor RBC Dominion Securities’ stunning rooftop deck at 745 Thurlow Street, guests were treated to panoramic views of the downtown Vancouver skyline and the North Shore mountains.Sponsored by Coast Capital Savings, the GenNext movement focuses on encouraging young professionals to give back locally.
The dedicated change-makers in attendance last night proved how committed they are to giving back – be that time, money or energy – for the good of their community.
These included many members of Coast Capital Savings’ Youth Get it Council who came out to show their local love. This diverse group of young leaders live and work across the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley and collaborate on ways to drive and support investment strategies that are ‘for youth, by youth.’
Rooftop Social attendees.
Precious Ile, a former United Way staff member and current Youth Get It Council representative, spoke about the importance of giving back to community and empowering youth.
“It’s tremendously exciting to be reminded of the difference we can make to improve the lives of people in our community when we come together to support organizations like the United Way and its School’s Out programs. It’s fantastic to be here amongst other young people who are involved, engaged and committed to improving our world.”
In total, last night’s event raised $37,000. This bring GenNext’s three year fundraising total to $107,000. These funds are directly invested in local after-school programs, ensuring thousands of vulnerable kids have access to healthy and safe activities when they’re not in school.
Supporting local children to access spaces where they can experiment, learn and connect with each other is one reason why many GenNexters get involved with the movement.
United Way’s GenNext cabinet members at Impact Red: Rooftop Social.
“I just think back to when I was a kid and the crucial elements that helped shape my life,” says Amanda Costa, chair of GenNext. “These were great teachers, a stable home environment, good friends and fun activities. I know that not everyone has the same resources.”
Amanda also believes in the community GenNext is building, both for both local youth and young professionals. For her, events like Impact Red are great ways for other young people to meet friends, network, and connect with like-minded individuals, who otherwise may feel isolated and disconnected in the city.
“Vancouver can be a hard place to put down or maintain roots. I know I felt that way when I moved to the city ten years ago. It gets me thinking – what if you don’t have the support you need?”
Heather Kerklaan, her GenNext vice-chair agrees. “Connecting with other GenNexters builds an amazing sense of community. Plus, you feel like together you are making a real difference.”
Last night also marked the official launch of GenNext’s Influencer program, which connects GenNext supporters to additional educational and engagement opportunities and provides exciting perks and rewards for giving back.
Check out photos from the event’s photo booth here, stay tuned for pictures from our incredible photographers SambaJoy, coming in a few weeks (it’ll be worth the wait!) and save the date for GenNext’s last event of the year: Impact Red: Networking with Purpose, Thursday, November 8th.
Interested in upping your influence? Want to get involved with GenNext?
Don’t wait to give back. Join us.
Topics : GenNext, Local love
